James R. “Randy” Matson ’67
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Executive Director  
Years Served: 1980 - 1999

The Association of Former Students

1980 - 1999 Randy graduated from Texas A&M University in 1967 with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. He joined The Association of Former Students in 1972 as the Director of the Annual Fund under the leadership of Buck Weirus ’42. Randy was promoted to Executive Director in 1980 when Buck retired. During Randy's 20-year tenure with The Association, the Annual Fund grew from $1.75 million to $5.5 million and the organization’s budget more than tripled. Randy supervised the original construction of the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center and directed the establishment of the Bonfire Relief Fund. He participated in the 1964 Olympics and won a silver medal in shot put. Randy represented the United States again in 1968 and brought home a gold medal in the same event. He was the first person in the world to throw the shot more than 70 feet.

Richard “Buck” Weirus ’42
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Executive Director  
Years Served: 1964 - 1980

The Association of Former Students

1964 - 1980 Buck received a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering in 1942. He served as President of the San Antonio A&M Club before returning to Aggieland to lead The Association of Former Students. Under Buck's leadership, the Century Club was created. He guided The Association through some of the university’s most difficult years, often serving as the voice of reason and reassurance to both university administrators and former students as Texas A&M underwent sweeping changes. Throughout it all, Buck remained the eternal Aggie optimist and ambassador of the Aggie Spirit. Because of his unique leadership, vision and support of student involvement, the Buck Weirus Spirit Award was established by The Association of Former Students in 1982 to recognize students’ contributions to student life. This coveted award honors up to 55 students every year who demonstrate high involvement, create positive experiences throughout the Aggie community, impact student life at Texas A&M and enhance the Aggie Spirit.

James B. "Dick" Hervey ’42
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Executive Secretary  
Years Served: 1947 - 1964

The Association of Former Students

1947 - 1964 Dick graduated from the A&M College of Texas with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics in 1942. In 1947, he became Executive Secretary of The Association of Former Students, a position he held until 1964. Under his leadership, The Association implemented a computerized database, established the Distinguished Alumnus Award and the Texas A&M Archives.

Everett E. McQuillen ’20
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Executive Secretary  
Years Served: 1926 - 1947

The Association of Former Students

1926 - 1947 E.E. graduated from the A&M College of Texas with a bachelor’s degree in animal husbandry. As Executive Secretary of The Association of Former Students, he introduced the concept of “annual giving” and revolutionized The Association’s fundraising efforts by eliminating the old dues system and opening the door to more participation by former students. Inspired by the famous Aggie Muster of 1942 on the Philippine island of Corregidor, E.E. was instrumental in the establishment of a Muster on the Texas A&M campus. As a result, he was honored as the first Campus Muster speaker. E.E. led the effort to organize and standardize all Aggie Muster ceremonies around the world by establishing materials for the various Musters. Several decades later, The Association continues to send materials for the 320+ Muster ceremonies around the globe each year.

Ike Ashburn
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Executive Secretary  
Years Served: 1923 - 1926

The Association of Former Students

1923 - 1926 A World War I hero, Ike Ashburn was decorated three times for bravery in combat. Prior to becoming Executive Secretary of The Association of Former Students, he served as Commandant of the Corps of Cadets. Defining the role of The Association as a service organization, he championed efforts to help Aggies everywhere find job. His success in this endeavor created a legendary culture of Aggies helping new former students become established in their careers.

William B. Cook ’20
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Secretary-Treasurer  
Years Served: 1921 - 1923

The Association of Former Students

1921 - 1923 William Berry Cook ’20 graduated from the Agricultural & Mechanical College of Texas in 1920 with a bachelor’s degree in animal husbandry. He was The Association of Former Students' first full-time paid leader, serving as Secretary-Treasurer. Under his leadership, the ‘Texas Aggie’ magazine was created. Today, the ‘Texas Aggie’ is the flagship publication of Texas A&M and the worldwide Aggie Network. Published bimonthly, the magazine is a donor benefit for all active members of The Association of Former Students.