“I had no idea,” Katy said with a smile, recalling the moment. Behind the scenes, Paul had quietly worked with the Texas A&M Foundation’s team, whom he praised for their dedication and support, to create the surprise.
“I wanted to give her a gift that honored our shared love of Texas A&M University,” he said.
For Katy, the moment carried extra meaning. A journalism major from College Station, she came to Texas A&M thanks in part to the generosity of her own PES donor, legendary Aggie Leslie “Les” Appelt ’41. His financial support and mentorship helped shape Katy’s success, and the legacy of impact he instilled is something that will remain for her lifetime.
“Being able to do for others what Mr. Appelt did for me is a true blessing,” she said, noting her scholarship will support high-achieving students in journalism and other majors. “I hope the recipients will learn that being an Aggie is more than just a degree. It means being part of a strong and welcoming network bound by a shared sense of service and giving.”
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