How These High School Sweethearts Planned a Gift to Help Aggies Advance Agriculture

Before they ever imagined leaving a legacy at Texas A&M University, Bob Avant ’75 ’76 and his wife, Sharon, were laying the foundation for a life rooted in service, support and learning. Growing up in Pflugerville, Texas, Bob’s agricultural roots took hold early while working on his family’s farm. His plans to attend the University of Texas and pursue a career in veterinary medicine drastically changed when he decided to serve in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. During this time, Sharon — whom he met in junior high — worked on the base, supporting him through every endeavor. It was a season of service and growth, setting the stage for a shared purpose that only grew stronger with time.
 

A portion of their gift will establish the Sharon Elaine and Robert “Bob” Avant ’75 Endowed Scholarship in Agriculture for students in specific agricultural disciplines, with preference for those from their home region of Central Texas. Another will support The Gardens at Texas A&M University, funding student workers and interns so that all students, regardless of financial need, can gain valuable skills and networking opportunities in this living classroom.

Their estate gift will also establish a COADC Matching Fund to encourage other donors to join them in impacting the college. Additionally, the Avants will make the Agricultural and Natural Resources Policy Internship Program more accessible for students by creating a fund to help cover essential expenses like housing and transportation. Finally, part of their legacy will assist the Vice Chancellor and Dean of Agriculture and Life Sciences in addressing the college’s emerging priorities.
 

Bob remembers his college experience fondly, including serving as vice president of the student branch of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers, participating in honor societies such as Alpha Zeta, Tau Beta Pi, and Gamma Sigma Delta, and graduating magna cum laude. But beyond that, he connects his maroon education to the opportunities that richly blessed his and Sharon’s lives. “Our support reflects who we are and our belief that the future of the industry starts with access to education,” he said. “We hope the students we help will one day do the same for others.”