WT’s Natural Sciences Department to Honor Steed as Graduate of Distinction

Copy by Chip Chandler, 806-651-2124, [email protected]

CANYON, Texas - A giant in the area energy industry will be honored by West Texas A&M University's Department of Natural Sciences at an upcoming event.

Jerry Steed, who earned a Bachelor of Science in geology in 1981, will be celebrated as the inaugural Natural Sciences Graduate of Distinction at Science Community Night, set for 5:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Piehl-Schaeffer Pavilion in the Agricultural Sciences Complex on WT's Canyon campus.

Tickets are $40 or $10 for students. Reservation deadline is Oct. 26. Tickets are available at wtamu.schoolauction.net/sciencenight26/.

Steed is president and chief operating officer of Verdugo Energy LLC and Pablo Energy II LLC. He also serves as chairman of the board for the Paul F. and Virginia J. Engler Foundation.

"Jerry Steed's impact extends beyond his accomplishments in the energy industry. His service through the Engler Foundation and support for his alma mater reflect a commitment to higher education and the opportunities it creates," said Dr. Jason Yarbrough, head of WT's Department of Natural Sciences. "He exemplifies the professional achievement and commitment to others that bring distinction to WT as an alumnus. We are honored to recognize that example with the Department of Natural Sciences' inaugural Graduate of Distinction Award."

David Prescott-who earned bachelor's degrees in biology and environmental sciences in 1995, an MBA in 2009 and a Master of Science in environmental science in 2021, all from WT-will deliver the keynote at the event. Prescott, the founder and president of Talon//LPE, is an environmental scientist and professional geologist with more than 30 years of experience. An Amarillo City Council member, he is pursuing his Ph.D. in agriculture at WT.

"David connects scientific expertise with industry experience and a commitment to our students," Yarbrough said. "His current work addressing soil and groundwater challenges makes him especially well suited to speak about how science and technology serve our communities and our region."

The Department of Natural Sciences in the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences formally was established this summer by combining WT's Department of Life, Earth and Environmental Sciences and Department of Chemistry and Physics.

Funds raised will support the College's scholarships, including matching funds for four endowed scholarships.

For additional information or sponsorship arrangements, contact Newcomer at 806-651-3583 or [email protected].

About West Texas A&M University

West Texas A&M University is a Regional Research University in Canyon, Texas, on a 342-acre residential campus, as well as the Harrington Academic Hall WTAMU Amarillo Center in downtown Amarillo. Established in 1910, the University has been part of The Texas A&M University System since 1990. WT boasts an enrollment of about 9,000 and offers multiple options for students to graduate and succeed: 65 undergraduate degree programs, including eight associate degrees; and 41 graduate degrees, including an integrated bachelor's and master's degree, a specialist degree and three doctoral degrees. WT recently earned a Carnegie Foundation classification as a Research College and University. The Buffaloes are a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference; WT offers 16 men's and women's athletics programs.

Photo: Jerry Steed, left, will be honored as Natural Sciences Graduate of Distinction and David Prescott will deliver a keynote address at Science Community Night on Nov. 7.

-WT-