Destined to be an Aggie, Denis Graham ’76 moved with his wife, Carey, from California to Texas to pursue his undergraduate degree in ocean engineering at Texas A&M University. Nearly fifty years later, in honor of her late husband, Carey Graham established the Denis Graham ’76 Memorial Scholarship in the Department of Ocean Engineering.
The Grahams were newly married when Denis started at Texas A&M, and they both worked for the university to help financially support themselves throughout his education.
After graduation, Denis excelled in his career in the oil and gas industry and worked his way up to hold the position of vice president of operations at Diamond Offshore Drilling. Eventually, he joined Parker Drilling as vice president of engineering until his retirement in 2012.
“Denis repeatedly hired young engineers out of Texas A&M because he knew he could count on them as quality individuals in the field of engineering,” Carey said.
By establishing this memorial scholarship, Carey aims to inspire and support young engineers who are struggling financially. Denis’ engineering degree from Texas A&M was the foundation of a long and prosperous career, and his wife believes this can open the window of opportunity for these students as well.
“As a young married couple who put ourselves through college without any financial aid, we both knew how important monetary aid was in obtaining a college education,” Carey said. “I hope this financial aid is the kickstart future engineers need to be just as successful as Denis was.”
Denis was proud to be an Aggie engineer and exemplified the Aggie core values in all aspects of his career. Texas A&M held a special place in his heart throughout his adult life. It even inspired him and former student Bill Kinney ’76 to establish the Spirit of ’76 Endowed Scholarship in Ocean Engineering to support young individuals in their college aspirations.
Denis believed in giving back, especially to the Aggie community, and would be proud that his legacy continues to support future Aggie engineers.
Carey hopes to move her husband’s legacy forward by establishing this scholarship. Texas A&M offered the most impactful experiences and education for her husband. Carey aspires for future generations of Aggie engineers to have the possibility to obtain their education and experience the spirit of Aggieland for themselves.
How To Give
Endowments supporting 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.