COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – Mays School of Business received its largest single donation in its history, $25 million, on Friday.
Funding is provided by the Laurie Mays Family Foundation, the school's namesake. The Mays Family Foundation and Laurie Mays ’57 have helped make the Business School what it is today and what it will become.
Construction on the new building will begin based on donations. This will expand our graduate program, support enrollment growth, and strengthen our current programs.
Most importantly Friday, the donation vaulted the school to the top of the national list.
“When you think about what it takes for a business school to rise to the top, you have to attract the best students, and we have that,” said Mays Dean Nate Sharp. “We need the best staff and faculty, and we have them. We need the best former students who believe in the vision, and that's exactly what today is about. We want this business school to be the best in our country. I've gathered everything I need to get to the top and I'm excited to get there.”
The donation was presented by Lowry's daughter, Kathy Mays Johnson, and her daughter. The two received multiple standing ovations during their presentation.
“My father always believed that A&M was the most influential and played the most influential role in his life. He solidified his values and the education he received allowed him to move forward and succeed,” Mays Johnson said.
Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp and Texas A&M Foundation President Tyson Voelkel also attended.
“What makes a university great is its philanthropy, and that's what Lowry is doing here at the business school. He elevated its performance to one of the best in the country as early as 1996. He's going to make it the best before this is over,” Sharp said.
“I think philanthropy is about the future, because I believe in the possibility that others might be able to do it too. If you have a vision and you can help others and help the world “If we have the ability to bring light to the world, that's what this gift is all about. It's about a brighter future for everyone in business for the nation, the nation, and the world.”
The Mays family currently has donated a total of $72 million to Texas A&M.
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