AggieNetwork.com
Account Benefits

"Find an Aggie" Online Directory

HireAggies Career Services

Distinguished Alumnus Awards

The Distinguished Alumnus Award, the highest honor bestowed upon a former student of Texas A&M University, has been awarded since 1962 to only 354 of Texas A&M’s more than 588,000 former students.

Presented jointly by the university and The Association of Former Students, this award recognizes Aggies who have achieved excellence in their chosen professions and made meaningful contributions to Texas A&M University and their local communities.

This year's honorees are listed below. Please check back soon for their biographies and portraits. To see and read about all past honorees, please visit our Tribute Wall.

2025 Honorees

 

 J. Mike Walker 66 earned a degree in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M and co-founded Dril-Quip, a global leader in offshore drilling. A generous benefactor to his alma mater, he named the mechanical engineering department with a transformative gift and supported countless students through mentorship, teaching and philanthropy.

 

 M. Leroy "Shafe" Shafer ’67. After earning a degree in agricultural journalism from Texas A&M University, Shafer became a decorated U.S. Army helicopter pilot. He then led the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s growth into the largest event of its kind, raising a monumental amount in youth scholarships and setting industry standards in entertainment, education and community leadership.

 

 M. Scott Taylor ’69. After earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in finance from Texas A&M University, Taylor served as a captain in the U.S. Army and built a distinguished legal career. A lifelong supporter of his alma mater, he received the 12th Man of the Year Award from the 12th Man Foundation Board, where he also previously served as chair.

 

 Bill J. Youngkin ’69After earning a bachelor’s in agricultural education from Texas A&M University, Youngkin served in the U.S. Army. The former head yell leader and Corps of Cadets member built a distinguished legal career and has continued decades of dedicated leadership and service to Texas A&M.

 

 Stephen H. Vincent ’73 earned a bachelor’s in engineering technology from Texas A&M University. He was a principal at Priester Supply, which served electric utilities. After retiring, Vincent founded Power From the SON, providing electrical solutions in developing countries. He serves on the boards of the Higher Education Servicing Corp., and the local Salvation Army.

 

 John E. Ball, Col. USAF (Ret.) ’78. After earning a bachelor’s in psychology from Texas A&M University, Ball served 26 years in the U.S. Air Force, flying over 5,200 hours. He has walked over 6,300 unassisted miles across America, Europe and Australia to raise funds for The Walking Aggie Endowed Aggie Ring Scholarship.

 

 Arch "Beaver" Aplin III ’80After earning his degree in construction science from Texas A&M University, he founded the first Buc-ee’s in 1982 and grew it into a nationally renowned chain of destination travel centers. He is recognized for his entrepreneurial vision and service. Aplin made a gift to establish the Aplin Center at Texas A&M.

 

 Cydney C. Donnell ’81. After earning a bachelor’s in finance from Texas A&M University, Donnell developed a career in commercial real estate and directed Texas A&M’s Master of Real Estate Program. Now retired, she remains committed to higher education and public service. She was honored as a 2017 Outstanding Alumnus of Mays Business School.

 

 James Patrick Wilson, Jr. ’81. A certified public accountant and private equity investor, Wilson co-founded RSTW Partners and helped manage over $800 million in assets. He served as vice chairman of The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents and actively supports numerous Aggie initiatives.

 

 Linda Peckham LaMantia ’82. After earning a bachelor’s in business from Texas A&M University, LaMantia became an artist and community leader. She has chaired the Texas Cultural Trust Board and helped to award $40 million in STARS Scholarships. She serves on the board of the A&M PAC and on the DDC of the Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts College.

 

 Gary W. Kubiak ’83. After earning a bachelor’s in physical education from Texas A&M University, Kubiak played nine seasons as an NFL quarterback before embarking on a coaching career. He has participated in seven Super Bowls, including leading the Denver Broncos to a 2015 season victory.

 

 John B. Zachry 84. After earning a bachelor’s in civil engineering from Texas A&M University, Zachry has served as chairman and CEO of Zachry Group, leading the global engineering enterprise. A dedicated civic and university leader, he generously funded the Zachry Engineering Education Complex and supports many community and industry organizations.

To see and read about all past honorees, please visit our Tribute Wall.





Nominate an Aggie

For information about the Distinguished Alumni Gala, please visit this page or contact Jamie Veazey '17, Director of Events, at 979-845-7514 or Gala@AggieNetwork.com.

Address

505 George Bush Drive
College Station, TX 77840

Phone Number

(979) 845-7514

© 2025 The Association of Former Students of Texas A&M University, All Rights Reserved