Don Blake, a 1977 Howard Payne University alumnus formerly of Brownwood, will be featured on the Travel Channel’s “Burger Land” on Monday, May 6, beginning at 8 p.m.

The owner of Blake’s BBQ and Burgers in Houston, Blake was profiled in the 2011 book “Hamburger America,” a state-by-state guidebook to the best hamburger restaurants in America.

Blake often uses the word “serendipity” to describe his successes in the business, a word he says he first learned while a student at HPU.

“I remember sitting in Chapel when I was a sophomore,” he said. “The speaker said ‘serendipity’ and it stuck in my mind.”

Though he attributes many of his achievements to serendipity, his business wouldn’t be what it is today without hard work and a knack for making great burgers.

“I would like for you to join me in watching as we celebrate the successes of an HPU graduate and former resident of Brownwood,” said Dr. Bill Ellis, HPU president. “Hopefully we’ll also learn a few tips on making burgers worthy of a Travel Channel special.”

Episodes of “Burger Land” featuring Blake will repeat throughout the month of May. Visit www.travelchannel.com/schedule for listings.