With a gift funded through the Texas A&M Foundation, LTC John Mark Thane ’84 will establish the LTC John Mark Thane ’84 Endowed Physics Scholarship in the College of Arts and Sciences at Texas A&M University..
The endowed scholarship will support one or more full-time undergraduate students in good standing who are pursuing a degree in physics. The gift reflects Thane’s lifelong commitment to learning, leadership and developing effective problem-solvers in technically demanding fields.
A seasoned professional with more than 30 years of leadership and service in the U.S. Army’s acquisition enterprise, Thane has built a career rooted in experimental research, systems development and emerging technologies. His professional foundation includes work in the experimental high-energy particle physics community, as well as applied research and large-scale experimentation supporting national defense initiatives. Throughout his career, he has focused on mentoring others, building strong teams and bridging disciplines to solve complex challenges.
Thane served for 32 years in the Texas Army National Guard, U.S. Army Reserve and as a regular Army officer. He is an Army Acquisitions Corps member. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physics from Texas A&M in 1986 and 1989, respectively.
Thane and his wife, Becky, reside in Pflugerville, Texas. Becky earned a Master of Divinity in theology from Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg. Together, they share a commitment to education, service and lifelong learning.
By establishing this scholarship, Thane hopes to support future Aggie physicists as they pursue rigorous academic paths and prepare to contribute to scientific discovery, innovation and leadership in an increasingly complex world.