Texas A&M Foundation

When Brian Ehni '74 survived a life-threatening health scare, he realized the importance of estate planning to ensure his legacy reflected his unforgettable experience in the Corps of Cadets. By planning ahead, Brian can rest assured knowing that his hard-earned assets will someday support future cadets in need — his way of preserving the Aggie Spirit. Learn how you can make a lasting impact through planning a gift in your will: https://bit.ly/4iG8IiL

The Gillespie family's legacy of love continues to make a profound impact on Texas A&M! For over a decade, Tanya and TJ Gillespie honored the memory of their son, Taylor ’11, through Taylor’s Place, a foundation that mentored students and provided financial support to families visiting their Aggie students. This December, they furthered his legacy by establishing a permanent Corps of Cadets scholarship in his name. Through their generosity, Taylor’s spirit will continue to inspire and support generations of cadets.

Protecting the planet AND empowering the next generation. ?? Dr. Nicole Mendoza ’07 ’13 has always believed in using her skills for something bigger. After merging her aerospace engineering expertise with her passion for the environment, she built an exciting career in renewable energy. Now, she’s extending that impact even further—through a future scholarship in her estate plans to support women and underrepresented students in STEM. Read her story here: https://bit.ly/4j1gmEm

For nearly 70 years, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has believed in the power of Aggies—and in contributing nearly $100 million to the university, has changed countless lives. Through their incredible generosity, they’ve made it possible for students to chase their dreams, pursue their passions and build a future without limits. Our Board of Trustees is honored to recognize the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo as the 2025 Sterling C. Evans Medal recipient. This distinguished honor from the Texas A&M Foundation salutes their selfless commitment and philanthropy to Aggieland, which will continue to impact generations of students to come. From empowering students on the Meat Judging Team to supporting those in the Corps of Cadets, hear the heartfelt gratitude from Aggies across campus as they share the profound impact of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's generosity and unwavering support.

Sports have the power to change lives—and the Global Youth Sport for Development Initiative is putting that power to work across communities. Led by Dr. Jim Guinn, this initiative uses sports to teach underprivileged youth essential life skills, like resilience and teamwork, that serve them both on and off the field. “While life will always have its challenges, we give them the tools to face them in a positive and productive way,” Guinn shared. “Even in just a few days, we’ve witnessed growth in their ability to cope, communicate and collaborate—skills that will serve them far beyond sport.” With programs in 45 states in America and 8 states in Mexico, the initiative is transforming communities through the universal language of sport and expanding its reach even further. “It’s amazing to see the skills we’re instilling in the kids start to trickle down to their parents, siblings and even schoolteachers,” Guinn said. “It’s a ripple effect that strengthens the whole community.”

Mark your calendars—The Big Event is almost here! ?? If you haven't heard, The Big Event is more than just a day of service; it's a tradition that connects Aggies and the Bryan-College Station community. Blake Guerra ’25 shares how one conversation reminded him about the beauty of serving others on the big day. Click the link to read his story: https://bit.ly/4hInLHG

From blooming flowers to aspiring scholars, Mary Beth ’79 and Kenneth Cranfill ’79 know the most remarkable journeys often begin with a single seed of opportunity. The Cranfills are using a gift in their will to establish two meaningful endowments, one for the Department of Horticultural Sciences and another for the Aggie ACHIEVE program. Their generosity will help future Aggies blossom for years to come. Learn how they are planting seeds of success for the future of Texas A&M here: https://bit.ly/4kFgT0D

Marching in step, standing out in history. The late Kevin Phillip Roberts ’89 led the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band with precision and confidence as its first Black drum major. A soft-spoken yet courageous leader, he made everyone around him feel welcome. His leadership set the stage for future generations, proving that the Spirit of Aggieland is built on respect, service, and excellence. Read his inspiring story here: https://bit.ly/4brJWAp

The Texas A&M Foundation was honored to host our friends from Blue Bell Creameries for a full day of great conversations and campus connections!?? From exploring leadership at the Hollingsworth Center to engaging with faculty at Mays Business School - Texas A&M University, the Texas A&M University College of Engineering, and the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, their visit highlighted our shared commitments to excellence. We appreciate Blue Bell’s continued relationships and the impact they make on our students and programs!

Honoring their son David Gilbert '07, Tom and Laura Gilbert transformed their loss into a legacy by creating one of Texas A&M's most impactful leadership programs. For 20 years, the Gilbert Leadership Conference has shaped Aggie freshmen into servant leaders. The Gilberts remain deeply involved, connecting with students who embody their son's values of character, service and involvement. Learn how one family is guiding the next generation of Aggie leaders here: https://bit.ly/3F9muvP