What drives a university's graduates to excel in their respective fields while continuously giving back to society? The Distinguished Alumnus Award from Texas A&M University perfectly embodies this transformative power. This prestigious honor not only recognizes individual achievements at the highest level but also exemplifies the university's core values of service, responsibility, and leadership.

The Legacy and Significance of the Distinguished Alumnus Award

Established in 1962, Texas A&M University's Distinguished Alumnus Award has honored exceptional graduates for over six decades. As the highest recognition bestowed upon former students, this award celebrates alumni who have achieved professional excellence while making significant contributions to both their alma mater and their communities. Among Texas A&M's vast network of more than 700,000 former students, only 342 individuals have received this distinction, underscoring its rigorous selection criteria and esteemed reputation.

The award serves dual purposes: inspiring current students to emulate these role models while fostering alumni pride and engagement that strengthens the university community through a virtuous cycle of support and achievement.

The 2024 Honorees: Profiles in Excellence

This year's Distinguished Alumnus Award recognizes three exceptional individuals whose accomplishments have brought distinction to themselves, their university, and society at large:

Richard A. Smith: Energy Sector Visionary

With over four decades of leadership in the energy industry, Richard A. Smith has shaped the sector through executive roles at major petroleum and natural gas companies. His crowning achievement includes spearheading a multibillion-dollar liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility that enhanced national energy security. Smith has also championed renewable energy innovation, earning the "Renewable Energy Pioneer Award" for advancing solar and wind technologies. His influence extends to policy development, where he has contributed to international energy strategies through conference presentations and advisory roles.

Key contributions include:

  • Leadership in complex energy project management
  • Advancement of renewable energy technologies
  • Participation in energy policy formulation
  • Facilitation of international energy cooperation

James A. "Jim" Creel: Education Reformer

A lifelong advocate for educational equity, Jim Creel has transformed learning systems as a school district superintendent. His initiatives introduced personalized learning and STEM programs that significantly improved student outcomes. The "National Distinguished Educator Award" recipient founded the "Dream Scholarship" foundation, providing college funding for thousands of economically disadvantaged students.

Notable achievements encompass:

  • Implementation of innovative teaching methodologies
  • Promotion of educational accessibility
  • Community service through scholarship programs
  • Exemplary administrative leadership

Kent Moore: Climate Science Pioneer

As a leading researcher at the National Center for Atmospheric Research, Kent Moore has revolutionized climate modeling and extreme weather analysis. His work, frequently published in Nature and Science , informs global policymakers and has been presented at United Nations climate conferences. Beyond research, Moore actively engages in public education through lectures and writings that enhance environmental awareness.

Scientific contributions include:

  • Development of advanced climate prediction models
  • Analysis of extreme weather phenomena
  • Science communication and public outreach
  • Policy recommendations for climate action

Selection Process: Rigorous and Transparent

The award's nomination and evaluation process maintains stringent standards to identify truly impactful alumni. Nominations—open to all individuals and organizations—require comprehensive documentation of candidates' professional accomplishments, community service, and university engagement. The Texas A&M University Association of Former Students oversees a committee of experts who assess candidates based on career achievements, societal contributions, university involvement, and personal integrity.

Alumni Impact: The Aggie Network's Reach

Texas A&M graduates influence communities worldwide through various channels:

  • Entrepreneurial ventures creating employment opportunities
  • Technological innovations driving progress
  • Civic engagement and public service
  • Philanthropic support for social causes
  • Continued investment in their alma mater

As Mays Business School Dean Mark Rudin noted, alumni success represents a fundamental component of institutional achievement. This interconnected relationship was further emphasized by football coach Mike Elko, who highlighted alumni solidarity during a recent address at the Texas A&M Club in Houston.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Inspiration

The Distinguished Alumnus Award's enduring value lies in its capacity to motivate current and future generations of Aggies. By celebrating extraordinary alumni, Texas A&M reinforces its commitment to developing leaders who will address society's evolving challenges. As the university prepares to announce its 2025 honorees, this tradition continues to strengthen the institution's reputation while fostering an enduring culture of excellence.