In 1993, the 73rd Texas Legislature renamed the Law Enforcement Management Institute in honor of State Representative Bill Blackwood (R-Mesquite). Bill Blackwood, a graduate of Texas A&M University, served in the Texas Legislature from 1984 through 1993. During this term, Representative Blackwood was a staunch supporter of law enforcement. In 1991, he sponsored legislation providing death benefits for the families of police officers killed in the line of duty. And, in 1987, he sponsored legislation creating the Law Enforcement Management Institute.
Representative Blackwood was diagnosed with cancer in 1991. Despite the advice of his doctors, he remained active in the representation of the people in District 101. Representative Blackwood passed away on June 25, 1993, shortly after adjournment of the 73rd Regular Session. He was 56 years old. In March 1994, a representative from the LEMIT staff met with Mrs. Mary Blackwood, widow of Bill Blackwood. At this meeting initial plans were discussed for a formal ceremony dedicating LEMIT to the memory of Bill Blackwood. The ceremony occurred on September 10, 1994. The Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas is dedicated to his vision, leadership, and friendship.