Texas A&M Equine Complex Honors Donors in Grand Style
COLLEGE STATION, TX – On Oct. 12 more than 20 donors, who helped to make the Thomas G. Hildebrand, DVM ’56 Equine Complex a reality, were recognized for their support of this premier facility dedicated to equine research, education, teaching, and outreach. Representatives from the Texas A&M University System, Texas A&M University, Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and Texas A&M Equine Initiative were on hand to thank the donors for there generosity in supporting the first phase in a multi-phase effort to construct cutting-edge equine facilities at Texas A&M.
“The enthusiasm by the donors here today, to support this initiative has exceeded even my expectations,” said Dr. Mark Hussey, dean and vice chancellor of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “We have set a high bar for others to reach by working synergistically-the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences-to bring us all here today.”
The first phase of the complex serves as the home of the nationally ranked Texas A&M Equestrian Team and also houses classrooms, faculty space, and meeting facilities.
“Because of the generosity of our friends and donors and the support of the Texas A&M; University leaders, we are well on our way to creating the finest equine program in the world,” said Dr. Eleanor M. Green, the Carl B. King dean of veterinary medicine. “How better to recognize our donors than to have supportive comments presented to them by our Texas A&M leaders, by Craig Huffhines, executive vice president of the American Quarter Horse Association, the largest breed organization in the world, and by D. Wayne Lukas, the iconic, hall of fame racehorse trainer.”
The importance of this facility is not only the impact it has on students, but also the impact it will make on the equine industry through innovative research and collaborative outreach programs.
“There is an opportunity to do things here that have so much magnitude,” said D. Wayne Lukas, Hall of Fame racehorse trainer. “Everyone honored here tonight has made an investment in the youth of America-that is priceless. It is unbelievable what your gift will do for people for years to come.”
In addition to Lukas, Huffhines, executive vice president of the American Quarter Horse Association, spoke to the tremendous impact Aggies have through programs like the Equine Initiative.
“It’s a proud day in Aggieland,” said Huffhines. “Texas A&M is known for its tradition of selfless service, and these donors and the facilities they have supported exemplify that tradition.”
Dr. Jim Heird, the Glenn Blodgett chair and executive professor and coordinator of the Equine Initiative, provided individual recognition of the many donors involved in making the complex a reality.
“The reason we are here,” said Heird, “is because we want to say a heartfelt thank you to the donors who have made this possible. It was a tremendous group effort-everyone here today has given of themselves as well as their time and resources. We appreciate the support of so many.”
In addition to the 12th Man Foundation, and the many departments and divisions within Texas A&M that collaborated on the Hildebrand Equine Complex, those who were honored at the ceremony included:
- David & Anne Andras
- Kenneth & Laina Banks
- Dr. H.B. “Woody” Bartlett
- Larry & Sally Brumbaugh
- Rick & Lori Bucholz
- The Burnett Foundation
- Chicho & Bonnie Flores
- Fred & Liz Henson
- Heritage Place
- The Hildebrand Family
- The Holsey Family
- Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
- Art & Catherine Nicholas and Wagonhound Land & Livestock
- The Pedigo Family
- The Scharbauer Foundation
- Lou & Wanda Waters
- Penny L. Youngblood & Nancy E. Pearce (Circle Y Ranch)
- George Phillips
- D. Wayne Lukas
- Dr. Charles W. Graham
