TEXAS A&M-KINGSVILLE SUPPORTERS RECOGNIZED WITH OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPISTS AWARD
Jenilee Rollefstad
Texas A&M University-Kingsville Foundation
361.593.4191
May 3, 2024 (Kingsville, TX) – Long-time supporters of Texas A&M University-Kingsville Judy and Bill Colston, Jr., received the award of Outstanding Philanthropists on Tuesday, April 30, in Corpus Christi. The Colstons were honored at the National Philanthropy Day® (NPD) awards ceremony, hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Coastal Bend chapter.
NPD is a celebration of philanthropy—giving, volunteering, and charitable engagement—that highlights the impact of philanthropists on our society and our world.
The Colstons have been involved in numerous efforts benefitting the region including through their support of the Christus Spohn Hospital System, Halo Flight, Riviera Independent School District and Kleberg-Kenedy Livestock Show.
“Through our annual Philanthropy Celebration, we honor the remarkable efforts of individuals like Judy and Bill Colston who embody the spirit of giving and community support. The Colston's dedication to uplifting Coastal Bend nonprofits is not just commendable—it's transformative,” remarked Jeff Grandy, current President of AFP Coastal Bend.
“The Colston's contributions resonate far beyond the organizations they support, creating a ripple effect of hope and possibility throughout our Coastal Bend community. Thank you to Judy and Bill for being a beacon of generosity and inspiration, and for the profound difference they make every day.”
In addition to financial philanthropic support, the Colstons are willing to work on projects with their presence and perspiration. Bill served as a Trustee and Officer of the Texas A&M-Kingsville Foundation for 12 years. Judy has served on the President’s Legacy Ball Committee.
Bill briefly attended the University in the early 1970s. While not graduates of Javelina Nation, they believe, deeply, in the life-changing power of education. Over the last decade, Bill and Judy have increased their giving significantly, supporting such campus initiatives as:
- Caesar Kleberg Wildlife Research Institute
- Agricultural Leaders Scholarship Endowment
- Bill & Judy Colston College of Agriculture Scholarship Endowment
- Bill & Judy Colston Honors Scholarship
- Bill & Judy Colston Kleberg & Kenedy Junior Livestock Show Scholarship Endowment
- President's Circle
- President's Legacy Ball
- School of Music Excellence Endowment
- School of Music Excellence Fund
- Steve & Karen Tallant Presidential Scholarship Endowment
- Javelina Alumni Fund
- Javelina Club
Most recently, the Colstons made a significant gift to the Javelina Relight Program—a program designed to aid students who may have stopped or paused their academic journey and are now ready to resume their studies and complete their degrees at Texas A&M-Kingsville. Eligible students can receive up to a $2,500 scholarship.
About Texas A&M University-Kingsville Foundation, Inc.
Since 1972, the Texas A&M University-Kingsville Foundation, Inc. has been serving the mission of Texas A&M University-Kingsville to aid in support of scholarship, research and service through private funding. To learn more, visit www.javelinagiving.org/about
About Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Texas A&M University-Kingsville is the first comprehensive public, research institution of higher learning in South Texas. Founded in 1925, Texas A&M University-Kingsville transforms lives and creates well-rounded leaders through a commitment to excellence in teaching and learning and the pursuit of research and discovery. With a focus on student success, the University offers high-quality undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral education. Our graduates advance the vitality of their communities, both locally and globally, with courage and integrity. To learn more, visit www.tamuk.edu