Texas A&M University’s freshman chemistry course holds a special place in the memories of Dr. Laurie A. '88 and David P. O’Brien ’88. Besides teaching key academic concepts that proved foundational for their respective careers, the course also introduced the pair of Aggies.
Now Laurie and David are happily married with three children: Patrick ’20 ’22, William ’22 ’23 and Colin ’25. The couple, who live in Kingwood, Texas, also continue to enjoy professional success; she’s an optometrist while he’s a recently retired global power executive with Exxon Mobil.
With that initial chemistry course in mind, the pair have established the O’Brien Family Endowed Scholarship using matching funds from ExxonMobil. The endowment will support full-time students pursuing an undergraduate degree in chemistry.
Both Laurie and David understand the value of scholarship support since both benefited from endowment funding as undergraduates. “We strongly believe in the importance of education and are thankful to be able to help students achieve their goals,” said David, who earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. “This opportunity to support students with their education is truly special. We look forward to meeting some of the students we assist and hearing about their plans for the future.”
The O’Brien’s gift will be recognized on the fifth floor of the Instructional Laboratory and Innovative Learning Building through the naming of the O’Brien Family Study Collaboration Space. The nation’s premier laboratory building, which opened on West Campus in 2023, offers an immersive experience that promotes active, group and interdisciplinary learning for more than 15,000 freshmen and sophomores each year.
The O’Briens said their gift underscores their gratitude for the knowledge, experiences and relationships that they and their children enjoyed while at Texas A&M. “We are so thankful for the many opportunities that being part of the Aggie family has provided us and even more thankful that our children chose to attend Texas A&M as well,” said Laurie, who earned her bachelor’s degree in biology. “Our time at Texas A&M was so impactful in molding who we are today.”
The couple credit their undergraduate experience, including the Aggie Network and Aggie Core Values, for their continued personal and professional success. “Being an Aggie means being part of a large family and these values are at its foundation,” David said. “Every time you recognize the ring, a connection begins. Anywhere from Texas to around the globe, it is remarkable how often we encounter fellow Aggies making an impact on their community.”