Q&A with Joe Wright '82

When did you first know you wanted to attend Texas A&M?

It was when I was about seven or eight years old. My oldest brother was a freshman at Texas A&M about that time, and he was in the Corps of Cadets. Specifically getting to see him march into Kyle Field is probably my first ever recollection of Texas A&M and knowing that I wanted to attend this university.

Why is Texas A&M University special to you and your family?

My dad came to A&M on a G.I. Bill after World War II, and he started the whole Wright family legacy. All of my brothers went to Texas A&M, our wives went and our children have all gone, and that has made A&M so special to our family. The way A&M has continued to hold its core values and its culture together over so many years of growth is also extremely special.

What led you to a career in the oil and gas industry?

Ultimately my college roommate at the time, Tim Leach, encouraged me to transfer into petroleum engineering.

How did your time at Texas A&M successfully prepare you for your career and life beyond?

Texas A&M gives you the confidence to be more than what you ever imagined. Part of that comes from our culture of understanding the importance of being a small piece of something greater and being able to recognize that. The university prepared me well from an educational standpoint. All the connections you make and the people you interact with on so many different levels while you are here, is also truly invaluable.

How did you first become involved with the 12th Man Foundation?

The very first involvement would certainly be through season tickets and meeting Jacob Green. That expanded with ultimately finding passions within the athletics department that I could financially support.

How have you seen the 12th Man Foundation Board of Trustees positively impact the organization's mission?

The board has been a good governing body that has ultimately helped the 12th Man Foundation staff continue to improve their systems, processes and overall efficiency.

What is one thing you have learned from the previous chair, Kevin McDonald '89?

Selfless service. Kevin has dedicated so many hours and so much of his time and talents ever since he has been on the board. He certainly has done so as chair, chair elect and now as past chair. He has set a great example of selfless service.

Why do you believe it is important to support Texas A&M Athletics through the 12th Man Foundation?

If you ever get the opportunity to talk with some of these student-athletes and listen to their stories, you will realize that the impact 12th Man Foundation donors can make not just on their lives but on their future families' lives is truly remarkable. Anytime that we can influence young people in a positive way — that is what we do this for.