Anthony J. Wood ’87
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Year Awarded: 2023

Austin, TX

Born in the U.K., Wood spent most of his teenage years in Houston. He started his first computer company in high school and worked odd jobs to earn extra cash. Neither of his parents attended college, so what brought Wood to Texas A&M was a $500 scholarship.

Wood studied electrical engineering, a discipline that complemented his interests, but his grades began to drop his junior year because he was devoting too much time to his newest company, SunRize Industries, instead of his classes. With some encouragement from Aggie administrators, he brought his grades up and graduated.

Wood is best known as the founder and CEO of Roku, a TV streaming platform. With an innovative understanding of demand, technology and trends, Wood envisions that all TV would someday be streamed. His foresight, paired with his drive, humility, quiet thoughtfulness and respect for others’ input, have earned him great success.

His innovation is not limited to his business ventures. Through the WoodNext Foundation, Wood funds research in a broad range of disciplines, including mental health, homelessness, entrepreneurship, dementia, pollution and more. He even supports the study of circadian rhythms, hoping to find a cure for jet lag.

Texas A&M is also a beneficiary of Wood’s generosity. He is the named donor of the new stage in Aggie Park. He has also given major gifts to the Texas A&M Global Cyber Research Institute, the School of Medicine’s PTSD and Mental Health Research Fund and much more.

“He remains kind, humble and passionate, and uses his numerous successes in life to help better his community, his country and the world.”

  - Ray A. Rothrock ’77