Sweethearts Establish Scholarship to Support ETID Students

From high school sweethearts to proud Aggies, Zip ’80 and Patty ’80 Saxon’s journey has been shaped by a deep love for each other, Texas A&M University and a commitment to giving back. Now, through their recent gift to the Department of Engineering Technology and Industrial Distribution, they hope to help the next generation of Aggie engineers find the same success.

While Zip and Patty share a love for A&M, their paths to the university were slightly different. 

“I had some friends who went to A&M, and after visiting, I knew early on that’s where I wanted to be,” Zip recalled. “I didn’t have the grades quite like Patty did, but I was fortunate to get in through the Corps of Cadets.”

Patty, on the other hand, had plans to attend Baylor University in Waco—plans that quickly changed after she met Zip in high school.

“My parents had already put money down for Baylor,” Patty said. “But then I told them, ‘No, I’m going to A&M.’”

That decision led to four years of shared experiences, with Zip balancing life in the Corps and Patty supporting him every step of the way.

“We were fortunate to go through A&M together,” Zip said. “I’m sure I wouldn’t have made it through English without Patty’s help.”

After graduating, Zip launched a career in industrial distribution, a field that aligned perfectly with his passion for applied sciences and engineering. He remained in the industry throughout his career, building a successful business and mentoring young professionals, including fellow Aggies.

Patty, meanwhile, pursued a career in Physical Therapy, spending 35 years working in schools and healthcare settings. Together, they built a life centered on hard work, family and faith.

“We’ve had our share of challenges,” Zip said. “Careers take unexpected turns, and there are ups and downs, but having a strong foundation of faith and family made all the difference.”

They raised two daughters—one who followed in their footsteps to Texas A&M and is now a Navy JAG, and another who became a second-grade teacher in their hometown.

“We’re incredibly proud of them,” Patty said. “They’re great kids and we look forward to what God has planned for them in the future.  Work on faith, family, career, and building a fulfilling life.  While giving back and blessing others.”

Zip and Patty credit the university for shaping their success and established the Patty K. ’80 & G. Zane "Zip" Saxon ’80 Industrial Distribution Endowed Scholarship that would ease the burden for future students.

“Our parents put us through school, and we left without a penny of debt,” Patty said. “We made sure our daughters had that same opportunity, and we know not everyone has that privilege. If we can help a student graduate with a little less stress, it’s worth it.”

Their gift supports students in industrial distribution. Zip has attributed much of his success in this field to the applied sciences approach he learned at A&M.

“The practical, hands-on education I received at A&M was invaluable,” Zip said. “We just want to help students who are working toward their degrees and give them one less thing to worry about.”

To the students who may receive their scholarship, the Saxons have a simple message: cherish your time in college and keep pushing forward.

“Don’t rush through it,” Zip advised. “The ‘good old days’ are happening right now, but you don’t realize it until later.”

“College is hard, but life is harder,” Patty added. “Take in everything you can, stay focused, and enjoy the ride.”

Patty is enjoying retirement, and Zip is still running the Saxon Co.  The Saxons are enjoying life through traveling Aggies, staying active and making frequent trips back to Aggieland. They still attend Texas A&M football games, reconnect with old friends and even make occasional visits to The Dixie Chicken.

Although their time as students may be long past, their impact on Texas A&M is far from over. Through their generosity, Zip and Patty are ensuring that future Aggies have the support they need to walk the same path they did—one built on love, perseverance and the Aggie spirit.