Once they have graduated from Texas A&M University, former students leap into the world to achieve extraordinary accomplishments. It is no secret that Aggies help Aggies, and one way that graduates can stay connected to the spirit of Aggieland is through the many A&M Clubs worldwide. The Houston A&M Club is one of the largest, with over 90,000 members.
Hector Cavazos ’74 had the honor of leading the Houston A&M Club in 2021, and now the club has dedicated the Houston A&M Club Endowed Scholarship in Recognition of 2021 President Hector E. Cavazos ’74 to commemorate his stint as president. Cavazos credits much of his success to his time at Texas A&M.
“I received a four-year ROTC scholarship,” Cavazos said. “The training and discipline I received in the Corps of Cadets helped me in all facets of my military and civilian careers.”
While balancing his duties in the Corps as a member of Company C-2 and studying to receive his degree in petroleum engineering, Cavazos also made time to dive deep into the culture at Texas A&M. On a Saturday night in November 1974, he met and shared a few dances with his future bride, Dianne Cavazos ’75, and would marry her a few months later.
Shortly after their wedding, they set out on a journey around the globe as Cavazos was commissioned in the United States Army. In his 28-year military career, Cavazos displayed what it means to be a selfless leader. He was awarded the Commendation Medal in 1978 for his admirable service, and just two years later, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his extraordinary non-combat service.
After his time in the Army, Hector and Dianne settled in Humble, Texas. In 1982, the Cavazoses welcomed their first son Lance ’05, and three years later, their second son Evan ’07 was born. Lance and Evan followed in their father’s footsteps and were members of Company C-2 in the Corps of Cadets. Hector continued to lead selflessly in his 35-year career with Chevron as a petroleum engineer.
My mentors and professors provided a rewarding experience in pursuing a degree in petroleum engineering. Their encouragement and support demonstrated their commitment to helping me succeed throughout my career.
The support given by professors shaped Cavazos’ experience in the Harold Vance Department of Petroleum Engineering. The scholarship he received also provided him with the opportunity to attend college and later succeed in his military and civilian careers. Cavazos hopes the new scholarship endowment will similarly lay the foundation for success for petroleum engineering students.
To support students from a background similar to Cavazos’, the Houston A&M Club has requested that this scholarship be set aside for first-generation college students who are from the Houston area and members of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers.
How To Give
Endowments supporting students in the college have an immeasurable impact on their education. If you are interested in supporting the College of Engineering and its departments or would like more information on how you can give, please contact one of our development officers.