Ariss establishes scholarship for first-generation students

Kamal Ariss ’84 has established the Nadia and Kamel Abdel Rahman First-Generation Endowed Scholarship in Engineering. Distributions from this endowment will provide scholarships to first-generation students pursuing an undergraduate degree in the College of Engineering at Texas A&M University.

Ariss speaks fondly of his time at Texas A&M as a first-generation Aggie.

“I was initially drawn to Texas A&M for its renowned construction program. However, after getting to know the culture of Aggieland, I realized that Texas A&M’s core values resonated with me. They have made me who I am today. I always like to say that I am French Canadian by birth, Lebanese by origin and twice an Aggie by choice,” he explains.

While studying engineering technology, Ariss stayed involved on campus and became a founding member of the first chapter of Texas A&M's Beta Theta Pi fraternity. He graduated in 1984 and went on to earn a master’s degree in land development in 1987.

Now, Ariss is an area manager at Vanir Project Management, where he provides oversight of design and construction of projects. Over the course of his career, he has managed the planning and construction of many large national projects while serving on various boards and staying involved in multiple Texas A&M professional and personal networks. This includes serving on the leadership council and the board of directors at the Association of Former Students. 

However, Ariss’ Aggie legacy doesn’t stop with his professional life. His daughter, Maya, is a freshman at Texas A&M studying communication.

Ariss chose first-generation students as the benefactors of this scholarship because he sees the value in investing in young people who have a similar story to his own.

“I am a firm believer that giving first-generation Aggies the chance to go to college is of paramount importance. The stories of these students after they graduate and have successful careers speaks for itself,” he explains.

“Texas A&M has given me all the tools to be successful in my career. Selfless service and giving back are two of many values I cherish and learned while at Texas A&M. I encourage all former students who are passionate about their alma mater to step up and help the university. There are many ways that you can help.”