Representatives from various groups and colleges at Texas A&M University recently thanked the donors who helped make the Thomas G. Hildebrand, DVM ’56 Equine Complex a reality. More than 20 donors were recognized for supporting the first phase in a multi-phase effort to construct a facility dedicated to equine research, education, teaching and outreach. “The enthusiasm by the donors here today to support this initiative has exceeded even my expectations,” said Mark Hussey, Ph.D., 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 Eleanor M. Green, DVM, 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.” In addition to the 12th Man Foundation, and the many departments and divisions within Texas A&M that collaborated on the 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 “The reason we are here is because we want to say a heartfelt thank you to the donors who have made this possible,” said Jim Heird, Ph.D., the Glenn Blodgett chair and executive professor and coordinator of the Equine Initiative. “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.”
