Couple invests in fostering Aggie global citizens
Through five gifts supporting study abroad, leadership development and experiential learning, Raymond ’87 and Rhonda Pittard are helping Aggie engineers become global citizens and innovative problem-solvers.
Raymond ’87 and Rhonda Pittard at Kyle Field.
Raymond ’87 and Rhonda Pittard are committed to developing globally minded leaders within the Texas A&M University College of Engineering. Having experienced firsthand the value of global perspective and leadership in the engineering profession, the Pittards have established five gifts to expand international experiences and leadership development opportunities for students.
The road to Aggieland
From an early age, Raymond Pittard was encouraged to become an Aggie. His love for mathematics sparked his interest in engineering, but a road trip with a family friend to watch the Corps of Cadets Final Review cemented Texas A&M as his top choice.
While in Aggieland, he learned what it means to be an impactful leader. Traditions such as Silver Taps — along with professors who invested in his success and the Aggie Core Values — shaped his understanding of leadership as a commitment to serving others.
That philosophy continues to guide the Pittards’ philanthropy today.
Great engineers, great global citizens
Through the Pittard Family Leadership Endowed Scholarship in Halliburton Engineering Global Programs, the France Aggie Challenge Study Abroad Experience and the Mexico Introduction to Research Abroad Program, the Pittards are creating opportunities for Aggie engineers to take their learning beyond the classroom and into the world.
“We want students to be great engineers,” Pittard said. “But we also want them to become great global citizens with a deeper understanding, appreciation and curiosity about people around the world.”
By supporting international experiences, the Pittards hope students will gain the cultural awareness, adaptability and global perspective needed to address complex challenges and collaborate across borders.
Raymond ’87 and Rhonda Pittard
Innovative leaders
The Pittards have shown a deep commitment to developing the next generation of innovative leaders and problem-solvers. Through the Pittard Family Meloy Program Excellence Endowment and the Meloy Summer Internship Program Fund, they are significantly expanding opportunities that connect engineering, leadership and business — ensuring students have access to experiences that foster creativity and entrepreneurship.
“We don’t engineer things just to engineer things,” Pittard said. “We need engineers who solve the right problems. Innovation is about solving the biggest and most important problems.”
The purpose behind their support for the Meloy Program is to fully equip engineering students with the skills, mindset and resources to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and become future industry leaders. By providing real-world experiences and mentorship, these initiatives can help students learn how to identify unmet customer needs and apply engineering know-how to create valuable, impactful businesses.
“Our goal is to give students the ability to bridge the gap from engineering solutions to solving real customer challenges and building successful enterprises,” Pittard said. “By supporting their growth — not just as engineers, but as innovators and entrepreneurs — we hope to empower them to make a meaningful difference in the world.”
Lasting impact
Pittard is passionate about using his experience, expertise and resources to create opportunities for future generations. In addition to his philanthropy, he remains actively involved with Halliburton Engineering Global Programs and the Meloy Program, sharing his perspectives and encouraging students to think beyond tradition.
“It really comes back to helping students understand how to innovate,” Pittard said. “That’s the business connection to engineering. It’s about helping them become global citizens and helping them become leaders.”
Dedicated to developing and inspiring others, Pittard hopes his experiences and support will encourage students to pursue global opportunities and become well-rounded engineers prepared to make an impact in their careers and communities.
How to give
Endowments supporting the students in the college have an immeasurable impact on their education. If you are interested in supporting the College of Engineering and its departments or would like more information on how you can give, please contact one of our development officers.
Contact one of our development officers