First-generation Aggies Milton “Mike” Retif ’06 and Brenda Retif ’06 are building a legacy, not just for their Aggie children but for other students pursuing degrees in chemical engineering.
For Mike, attending Texas A&M University was not only about earning an engineering degree, but also about finding a community rooted in tradition, camaraderie and purpose.
When he began looking for engineering programs as a high school student, A&M stood out for its focus on hands-on learning, something Mike knew would be critical to his personal and professional success.
“I was looking for an engineering program that focused on practical applications,” Mike said. “I enjoyed the atmosphere, camaraderie, and traditions at A&M. A&M brought me many opportunities, especially my time in AIChE (American Institute of Chemical Engineers). I gained leadership, teamwork skills and made lifelong friends.”
Brenda was inspired to attend Texas A&M since her three older sisters were already Aggies. From her very first visit to campus, she wanted to follow in their footsteps.
“I loved the campus, the traditions, the student life,” Brenda said. “When I decided to study chemical engineering, I knew A&M was the best choice. All of my courses at A&M encouraged me to ask questions and think outside of the box. Those skills allowed me to change careers and try new opportunities.”
When I decided to study chemical engineering, I knew A&M was the best choice. All of my courses at A&M encouraged me to ask questions and think outside of the box.
Mike and Brenda met while pursuing their degrees and were both active members of AIChE, where Mike served as president and Brenda as treasurer during their final year. The organization allowed them to connect with peers, faculty and professionals across the country.
“AIChE gave us opportunities to interact on a closer level with the chemical engineering department, as well as the College of Engineering,” the Retifs said. “We were fortunate enough to attend multiple regional and national conferences and meet students and industry professionals from all over Texas and the country.”
Now, years after graduating and building successful careers, the Retifs are giving back to the place where it all started by establishing a gift to benefit students in the Department of Chemical Engineering.
“Helping others has always been important to both of us,” Mike said. “We wanted to show appreciation to our college and help those who want to pursue chemical engineering.”
Their hope is simple: to make the road a little smoother for a student working toward the same goal.
Life After Aggieland
Mike works as a regional director for Enterprise Products in Mont Belvieu, Texas, where he oversees the Petchem plant operations. One of his greatest joys is mentoring young professionals and strengthening the teams he leads.
Brenda works as a technical specialist for Shea Writing and Training Solutions, where her chemical engineering background helps her solve problems in new and innovative ways.
The couple lives a busy life with their two children, Elizabeth and Thomas, who are in junior high and elementary school, respectively. When they’re not juggling work and school activities, the Retif family bonds over a shared love of Formula One racing, never missing a weekend at the track if they can help it.
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.