What is the Distinguished Alumnus Award?
Established in 1962, the Distinguished Alumnus Award is the highest honor bestowed upon a former student of Texas A&M University. The award is jointly sponsored by The Association of Former Students and Texas A&M to recognize those former students who have made significant contributions to society and whose accomplishments and careers have brought great honor and distinction to Texas A&M. Since its inception, only 342 of Texas A&M's more than 593,000 former students have been recognized for their significant contributions to their professions, Texas A&M University and their local communities.
What is the Distinguished Alumni Gala?
The Distinguished Alumni Gala is one of the most anticipated and prestigious events on the Texas A&M campus. In addition to honoring the 2024 Distinguished Alumni at this premier event, we will also celebrate all prior year honorees of the Distinguished Alumnus Award. The event will begin with a cocktail reception followed by a formal three-course dinner and awards presentation for the current year's honorees.
Where will the Distinguished Alumni Gala be held?
The 2024 Distinguished Alumni Gala will be held on the floor of Reed Arena, which is located on the Texas A&M University campus.
What time will the Distinguished Alumni Gala begin and end?
The reception will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow. The program will conclude around 10:30 p.m.
What is the attire?
The attire for this prestigious event is black-tie. Most men will be dressed in a tuxedo with ladies wearing a formal evening dress. For planning purposes, guests will take either an elevator or stairs to the floor of Reed Arena. The arena can be chilly, so a light wrap may be desired.
Is the invitation list restricted to certain individuals or open to everyone?
While the Distinguished Alumni Gala is a ticketed event, all current students, former students and friends of Texas A&M University are welcome to purchase a ticket or a table for this premier event.
Are tickets still available?
Yes, please visit our registration page for ticket and table purchases.
Cancellation Policy
- Registration deadline is Friday, August 9, 2024, or once maximum capacity is reached. Transfer of table and ticket purchases are permitted until this time.
- Before Friday, August 9, 2024 - 100% refund.
- Friday, August 9, 2024, until Friday, August 23, 2024 - 50% refund.
- After Friday, August 23, 2024 - We are unable to provide a refund.
If I purchase a table, do I need to give The Association the names of my guests? If so, why?
Yes – We ask for the names and Class years of all guests seated at your table to 1) ensure your guests are not on someone else’s guest list and already seated at another table, and 2) prepare table escort cards that will be handed to all guests when they arrive at the gala so they know where to sit during the event. To ensure proper planning, we must receive your guest names by Friday, August 9, 2024.
I have a dietary restriction… can you accommodate my needs?
Yes – Our caterer can accommodate all dietary restrictions. Please make a note of your dietary restriction(s) on your registration form so we can inform the caterer. The caterer will know which table you are seated at given all guests will be seated at assigned tables. Please be specific about your needs.
I have a physical challenge… can you accommodate me?
Yes – The Distinguished Alumni Gala will be held on the floor of Reed Arena. In addition to guests taking the stairs down to the floor, elevators are available. If you require additional assistance, please contact us at Gala@AggieNetwork.com.
Where do I park?
Preferred parking locations are in Lots 102, 100a and 100g. Additional parking is located in lots 100b, 100c and 100f. All parking lots are accessible via Kimbrough Blvd., Chandler Dr. or Olsen Blvd. Please use the Main Entrance facing Kyle Field.
View Parking Information
How do I nominate someone for the Distinguished Alumnus Award?
Nominations for 2025 are currently being accepted until Friday, August 30 at 11:59 p.m. If you need additional information, please contact Lisa Ashorn at The Association of Former Students at 979-845-7514 or LAshorn@AggieNetwork.com.
View the criteria and online nomination form.
How do I find photos from the Distinguished Alumnus Gala?
Photos taken at the Distinguished Alumni Gala will be available online at tx.ag/Gala two weeks after the event.
Who do I contact if I have any questions?
- For questions regarding information on purchasing individual tickets, table packages and sponsorship benefits, please contact:
Sarah Hamilton '19, Manager of Events
979-845-7514
Gala@AggieNetwork.com
- For questions regarding purchasing tributes for the Distinguished Alumni Gala program, please contact:
Amy Baker '20, Coordinator of Events
979-845-7514
Gala@AggieNetwork.com
- For all other questions regarding the Distinguished Alumni Gala, please contact:
Jamie Veazey '17, Director of Events
979-845-7514
Gala@AggieNetwork.com
- For questions regarding the 2024 Distinguished Alumni as well as the Distinguished Alumni Award nomination process, please contact:
Lisa Ashorn, Administrative Assistant
979-845-7514
LAshorn@AggieNetwork.com
- For media inquiries regarding the Distinguished Alumni Gala, please contact:
Scot Walker '90, Vice President
979-845-7514
SWalker90@AggieNetwork.com
