Michael Searles was a professor emeritus of history at Augusta University. Known as "Cowboy Mike", Searles was known for his dedication to education of students and the public about the Western experiences of Black cowboys and Buffalo Soldiers. Although he was usually dressed in his signature cowboy hat, it was not uncommon to see Searles wearing boots, spurs or other cowboy attire. Searles also contributed to 'Black Cowboys in the American West' alongside Bruce Glasrud; a published collection of stories on the life and work of cattle drivers from the years before the civil war through the turn of the twentieth century. Cowboy Mike was a nationally recognized consultant and presenter, speaking to public schools, libraries, universities, and community groups. He retired from Augusta University in 2012 after a 20-year teaching career. After retirement he wrote for a local newspaper in Georgia, passing away in 2023 at the age of 80.