Sean Smith ’83 had no ties to Texas. Instead, he found his way to Texas A&M University in a unique way. He attended another university out of state and transferred once he learned about the Aggie institution from his now-wife, Tina Smith ’82. Through scholarships that qualified him for in-state tuition, Sean was able to pursue an Aggie education. Now, the Smiths have established the Tina ’82 and Sean Smith ’83 Petroleum Ventures Program Endowed Scholarship.
While Sean is a first-generation Aggie, Tina’s family is rooted in the tradition of attending Texas A&M. Her grandfather, father and uncles paved the way for her Aggie education. Two out of four of Sean and Tina’s children have extended the generations of Aggies in their family as former students of Texas A&M.
Sean experienced how Aggies help other Aggies accomplish their goals by receiving scholarships that were critical to supporting his education. Throughout their time at Texas A&M, Tina and Sean were deeply impacted by the shared Aggie bond among current and former students.
I was able to attend Texas A&M because of the financial resources provided by the university — specifically scholarships provided by former students.
Tina graduated with her degree in management, and a year later, Sean graduated from the College of Engineering with his degree in petroleum engineering. His career took him from petroleum engineering to earning a Master of Business Administration and working in private equity for many years.
“Through my career, I see the value of an engineering degree, particularly as one moves into management, finance or starting their own company,” Sean said.
With the establishment of the Tina ’82 and Sean Smith ’83 Petroleum Ventures Program Endowed Scholarship, they hope to encourage students to further extend their education by participating in the Graham Petroleum Ventures Program. The program, a collaboration with the Mays Business School, allows petroleum engineering students to earn a certificate that sets them apart by exposing them to business concepts, entrepreneurship, industry leaders and case-based learning opportunities.
“We hope to give Aggie engineering students the opportunity to experience the quality of education at Texas A&M and the strong bond that Aggies have as former students,” Sean said.
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.