The next generation of engineering leaders and innovators sit in lecture halls, eager to learn and grow. Recognizing the importance of supporting these students, Trisha ’99 and Richard McDonell ’99 have established the Trisha ’99 and Richard McDonell ’99 Endowed Scholarship in the College of Engineering. This scholarship aims to nurture the talents and ambitions of future Aggies, ensuring they have the resources to succeed.
Embodying the Spirit of Aggieland
While at Texas A&M University, Trisha and Richard fell in love with Aggieland’s many traditions. From standing with the 12th Man to participating in student organizations, the McDonells were deeply invested in the Aggie Spirit.
Richard joined the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) while pursuing his bachelor’s in electrical engineering. During a group site visit with IEEE, Richard met his future employer, National Instruments, where he would work for 17 years.
In her senior year, Trisha capitalized on the journalism degree she was pursuing and became the editor-in-chief of the Aggieland Yearbook, laying the foundation for a successful career in communications.
Today, Trisha serves as the director of Global Issues and Crisis Communication at Expedia Group while Richard embraced his entrepreneurial spirit and launched his company, Mint Builders. Both find joy and passion in their work.
Always look for ways to help others and build a reputation based on your commitment to excellence and earned respect from others.
The McDonells are grateful for the life skills they learned as Aggies and the Aggie core values, which they continue to exemplify.
“Always look for ways to help others and build a reputation based on your commitment to excellence and earned respect from others,” the McDonells said.
Encouraging the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Reflecting on their careers, both Trisha and Richard express gratitude to Texas A&M for their professional growth.“We are proud of the success A&M has enabled us to achieve in our careers, and we have a strong desire to give back to the next generation of students,” they said.
The McDonells are proud of the many programs Texas A&M offers to support current students, including the Meloy Engineering Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program, which started after they graduated. Returning to Aggieland as a speaker and judge for this program, Richard regularly shares his expertise and experiences as a founder and CEO.
Inspired by the students' interest in this field, Richard and Trisha felt compelled to provide financial assistance to support their goals.
With their scholarship, the McDonells want to inspire future engineering entrepreneurs and equip them to thrive. Their dedication to giving back and to a high standard of excellence stands as a model for Aggies to follow for generations to come. The McDonells hope students understand that a degree does not solely determine their future and encourage them to follow their passions.
“Never give up on pursuing your dreams and stay committed to working hard each and every day to achieve them,” the McDonells said.