Tommy and Susan Watts Stone ’84, longtime advocates for education and opportunity, have created the Tommy and Susan Watts Stone ’84 Endowed Bush School Scholarship to support students in The Bush School of Government and Public Service. This generous gift is part of the 41 for “41@100” Dean’s Endowed Scholarship Initiative. It will provide financial assistance to deserving students, ensuring that a Bush School education remains accessible to a broader range of talented individuals.
In connection with the George & Barbara Bush Foundation’s Centennial Commemoration, “41@100: A Celebration of George H.W. Bush“, the Bush School has set a goal of establishing 41 dean’s-level endowed scholarships in honor of the late president’s 100th birthday. A three-day celebration to commemorate President Bush’s extraordinary achievements will occur from June 11-13, 2024, at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Center in College Station, Texas.
Tommy and Susan Stone have two children who are graduates of Texas A&M University, Megan Stone Pokluda ’12 and Dr. Zachary Stone ’15. Their daughter, Megan, was an International Studies major and had the opportunity to travel abroad during her undergraduate studies. Because of opportunities and experiences such as this, Megan ultimately obtained a well-rounded degree that has served her well in her professional endeavors. As a result of the impact of Megan’s transformational experience, the Stones felt the call to partner with Texas A&M and designated a portion of their gift to the Bush School, which is now home to the International Studies program. They have a deep conviction in the ideal set forth by 41st President George H.W. Bush that “public service is a noble calling,” their scholarship reflects this belief by prioritizing students who pursue a degree in public service.
“Teaching students how to respect, understand, and learn from each other, here in the states and in other areas of the world, can only improve world communications and improve relations,” Susan stated. “The Bush School is a leader and can be a platform for bringing people together.”
The Stones’ decision wasn’t just a financial commitment; it was an investment in the future of our world and to those who will accept the noble calling to lead it. They envision their scholarship nurturing bright, passionate students who, without financial assistance, may never embark on the high-impact opportunities that the Bush School has to offer, such as studying abroad, language immersion, and internship programs or conducting research. They hope their scholarship can relieve the financial pressures so students can focus on their education and have a fulfilling college experience.
Interim Dean Dr. Frank B. Ashley III remarked, “Susan and Tommy’s gift will provide support for high-impact education which enables our students to enhance their degree through experiential learning. We are extremely grateful for the Stones’ investment in our undergraduate students as these type of opportunities beyond the classroom allows students to excel, not only in their education, but especially in their future professional careers.”
The Stones’ endowed scholarship is a gift from which generations of students will benefit. It exudes the act of selfless service, which this institution aims to instill in every student. The Stones encourage future generations of students to take advantage of the incredible professors, knowledgeable peers, and experienced leaders at the Bush School. They hope students seize every opportunity to learn while in Aggieland and strive to make a difference in every life they encounter now and in their future communities.
When asked to share their best advice to current students, Tommy said, “Use this time in your life to set a foundation for the future, knowing each day forward will be a learning process.”
If you want to establish a scholarship to honor President Bush’s legacy and make a difference in the life of a student who yearns to be a moral leader in public service, please contact Joy Monroe by emailing bushschool.development@tamu.edu.
