Expanding first-generation mentorship and scholarships

Lee (Bender) Coleman ’81 and Keith W. Coleman ’81 have made it their mission to support engineering students as they pursue their degrees. The couple, who met on campus during a blind date arranged by Lee’s roommate, have strong ties to Aggieland through their own experiences and family connections, with several relatives also becoming Aggies. This enduring legacy fuels their desire to give back.

In addition to their previously established endowments across multiple disciplines, the Colemans continue to support engineering through the establishment of the Lee (Bender) Coleman ’81 and Keith W. Coleman ’81 FGEn Scholarship Endowment in the College of Engineering. Their gifts reflect their belief in the transformative power of education and their commitment to helping Aggies succeed both in the classroom and beyond.

The Aggie Spirit

The Colemans’ devotion to Texas A&M University runs deep. Since graduating together in 1981, their relationship with the university and its traditions has flourished. For them, loyalty is a central part of the Aggie experience. They have attended nearly every football game in Aggieland since returning to Texas in 2010 and have served as benefactors of the College of Engineering. Beyond tailgates and social involvement, they credit their love for Texas A&M to its students.

“We have received so much from our Texas A&M experience, and it is time to give back,” Lee Coleman said. “This is the fourth endowed gift we have established, and we like to work with different departments and colleges to see where the greatest need is.”

Having seen the challenges faced by students — especially first-generation students — the Colemans aim to provide lasting opportunities. Their own journeys, through successful engineering careers and teaching, deepened their respect for the values Texas A&M instills, including integrity, leadership and selfless service. These values guided their work and inspired their commitment to philanthropy.

A 12th Man attitude

The Colemans strive to be more than a financial resource for students. They often extend invitations to students to attend football games and lunches. 

“We want to mentor those who need it,” Keith Coleman said. 

Their hope is to foster relationships that provide valuable advice and support for students facing obstacles along the way.

“Our goal is to help in whatever way we can,” Lee Coleman said. “If there is a way we can offer support, we will.”

Their motivation to give back is inspired by a sense of responsibility to ensure future generations of Aggies benefit from the tradition and support that made a difference in their own lives. They aim to be a lasting support system for first-generation engineering students, with their commitment stretching beyond each semester, opening doors and cultivating relationships that endure.

Through endowments and mentorship, the Colemans hope to empower Aggies from all backgrounds to make a positive impact on the university, their communities and the world.