You can be part of the legacy by supporting the expansion and update of this historic Texas A&M building.

By Kathy DiSanto
Communications Specialist/Vice President for Student Affairs
Texas A&M University

More than 70 years ago, the Bell County Mothers’ Club -- at the urging of their sons -- donated $6 toward construction of a student union. Then the classes of ’35 and ’36, which included those same sons, used their class gifts to establish a student union fund. By donating for a building to be constructed years after graduation, those cadets and their mothers demonstrated a selflessness that symbolizes the Aggie spirit.

After Aggies broke ground in 1947, the building -- known as the Memorial Student Center -- became a memorial for U.S. military personnel. Largely supported by current and former students, it continues to inspire generosity.

In 2007, A&M students embraced a vision of an expanded, renovated MSC by increasing the Student Center Facilities fee by $60 (to $100). "It’s our turn to leave a legacy," Student Body President Conner Prochaska ’07 said at the time.

Moved by that spirit, the Class of ’62 pledged a class gift of $500,000 and is challenging other Aggie groups to follow suit.

Honoring Fallen Soldiers

Aggies’ love of the MSC has grown throughout its history. During Aggie Muster in 1951, it was dedicated to the memory of Aggies who died serving our country in World Wars I and II. Then in 1976, it was rededicated to honor fallen Aggies of every war. Its history has been enriched as the MSC Student Programs Office (SPO) evolved into a training ground for leaders.

Stephanie Burns ’09, MSC president, said the MSC is the campus living room -- and more. "To me, the MSC is a gateway to Aggieland and the Aggie experience." She added that getting involved with organizations in the MSC’s Student Programs Office “helped me meet people, learn more about Aggie traditions and truly become part of the Aggie family."

Dr. Ed Davis ’67, president of the Texas A&M Foundation agreed. "I learned more about life, culture and leadership at the MSC than in the classroom. It does more than just attract leaders; it shapes them."

Join the Renovation Effort

The MSC’s spirit thrives, but the building needs the renovation and expansion that began this summer. Private donations of $20 million will be crucial to the $105 million renovation that will serve "a growing student population into the 21st century [and] refocus attention on the traditions and qualities that set this university apart," MSC Director Luke Altendorf said.

Project priorities include:

- Create a more welcoming space for students.

- Promote A&M’s tradition and history as a treasured memorial.

- Reinstate the MSC as the main campus gathering place.

- Reflect the MSC’s role as the gateway to campus.

To contribute to the MSC renovation or learn about naming opportunities, contact:

David Wilkinson ’87
Regional Director of Major Gifts
Texas A&M Foundation
800-392-3310
giving.tamu.edu

To donate to a pooled account, go online to giving.tamu.edu and click the "Give now" button. Select "Student Affairs / Memorial Student Center" from the first drop-down menu and "MSC Renovation & Expansion Project" from the second menu.

To learn more about the renovation, including MSC office and program locations during construction, visit OurMSC.tamu.edu.