Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, will receive the 2022 McLane Leadership in Business Award
Arch “Beaver” Aplin III, a 1980 Texas A&M University graduate, earned a construction science degree and opened his first Buc-ee’s in Lake Jackson, Texas, two years after commencement. He and his business partner Don Wasek built the iconic, multi-million-dollar business on several promises: pristine restrooms, scores of fuel pumps, a vast selection of food and consumer items, and well-paid employees. On Wednesday, October 26, Aplin will receive the 2022 McLane Leadership in Business Award at the Bush School of Government and Public Service, where he will also speak to the students and the public about his career and leadership experience.
Register online to attend or call (979) 845-1927
Bestowed annually by the Bush School’s Mosbacher Institute for Trade, Economics, and Public Policy, the award recognizes a prominent individual for outstanding contributions in the area of business and public service. The event will take place in the Annenberg Presidential Conference Center from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 26. The program is open to the public, but registration by Monday, October 24, is required. Guests may register either online at the Bush School website or by calling (979) 845-1927.
A noted philanthropist, Aplin recently announced a contribution of $50 million for the creation of a hospitality entrepreneurship program at Texas A&M University that will serve as an immersive learning laboratory for students. He is also known for his leadership in public service, currently serving as chairman of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, board member of the Association of Former Students of Texas A&M, member of the ERCOT Board Selection Committee, member of the Houston Methodist Hospital President’s Leadership Council, and lifetime member of the Coastal Conservation Association and The 100 Club. He is the former board president of the Brazosport Independent School District and a former member of the State of Texas Small Business Council, Lieutenant Governor’s Transportation Advisory Board, and the Brazosport Center for Arts and Sciences Board of Trustees.
The Mosbacher Institute was founded in October 2009 to produce policy-oriented research and education in trade, economics, and public policy. The McLane Leadership in Business Award was established by Drayton McLane Jr., a noted entrepreneur and Chairman of the McLane Group, a diversified collection of businesses that demonstrate a tradition of excellence and innovation.
