When it comes to generosity, Angela ‘85 and Kerry Stein ‘85 aren’t keeping score — unlike a piece of Texas A&M memorabilia that resides in their backyard; they believe in paying it forward. That’s why they established the ‘85 Steins’ Scholarship 2023.2.
“Both of us have benefitted from the generosity of other Aggies through endowed scholarships,” Kerry said.
Angela began her career at Texas A&M by accepting a scholarship created by Walter Lechner, Class of 1916; Kerry received a President’s Endowed Scholarship created by C.E. “Pat” Olsen, Class of 1923. It’s safe to say that these scholarships changed their lives, as the couple met in a geology class prior to Angela and Kerry changing their majors to geography and geophysics, respectively.
“[Olsen’s and Lechner’s] contribution helped us immensely,” Angela said. “We’ve had a long-term goal to replicate that generosity, hoping to give even more than we received.
“Our contribution is is intended to honor their legacy by following their lead,” Kerry added. “They created the pay-it-forward ideal, and we want to be part of that, a process that can truly grow exponentially.”
Their scholarship will provide assistance to undergraduate students in good standing in the College of Arts and Sciences, helping recipients focus on their studies by alleviating some financial burden.
“We believe education has a tremendous positive influence on individuals and society as a whole,” Kerry said. “For many, scholarships mitigate the biggest hurdle — cost — to access education.”
In addition to the newly-endowed scholarship, the Steins offer students some words of wisdom.
“Attending Texas A&M is special, and it is difficult to appreciate this value until your time at A&M has finished,” Kerry said. “If you reflect on and can understand the privilege now, you will make the most of the opportunity.”
That sounds like a winning game plan.