Investing in Engineering Excellence: Pylants’ Impact on Aggie Engineers

Timothy “Tim” Pylant ’84 was drawn to Texas A&M University by the integrity and grit of Aggies during a visit to Aggieland as a high school senior, where he admired the Aggies’ deep love for tradition and sense of community.

For Susan Pylant ’84, her decision to attend Texas A&M solidified when the Corps of Cadets visited her high school to pay their respects to a former student who survived the World War II Vietnamese prison, Hanoi Hilton. Their acts of honor and display of loyalty to fellow Aggies allowed Susan to witness a sprit that can ne’er be told. She realized that by attending A&M, she would not only get a great education but get a community that would support her forever.

Tim and Susan’s paths crossed a few weeks into their first semester at a dorm mixer. Their friendship grew stronger after routinely accompanying each other during meals at Sbisa Dining Hall. The time they spent together in Aggieland ultimately left a lasting impact on their lives, for which they are forever grateful. The Pylants established the Susan '84 and Timothy "Tim" Pylant '84 Endowed Scholarship to give back to Aggieland and impact future generations of Aggies in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

After Tim graduated with his degree in engineering technology, he and Susan started their lives together, raising their two children, Austin ’08 and Alexandria ’11. However, they both remained connected to the university and are active members of the Aggie network.

“I want students to know that former students are genuinely invested in their success,” said Tim. “Aggies use their resources to help and support fellow Aggies so they can succeed.”

Tim has served as a member of The Association of Former Students Leadership Council, Muster chair and president of the Fayette A&M Club and, most recently, the Engineering Advisory Council. While generously giving their time to support the Aggie network, the Pylants have also consistently contributed to the success of the College of Engineering.

“We aspire to encourage students who receive these gifts to desire to give back when that time arrives,” said Susan. 

The Pylants’ vision for their gifts extends beyond financial aid. They hope their gift inspires students to embrace their time at Texas A&M and seize the many available opportunities. Above all, they aspire for their gift to cultivate a strong Aggie community that will continue to pay it forward to future generations.