An older photo of two young adults sitting on a porch swing with drinks in their hands.
Chris and Ellen Calkins, during their college days together.

For Chris ’77, ‘81 and Ellen ’76 Calkins, some of the most influential moments of their time at Texas A&M happened outside the classroom. Chris graduated with a Bachelor of Science in animal science, then returned to receive his doctorate. Ellen earned her Bachelor of Science in biology.

Working in the meat laboratory as an undergraduate gave Calkins early exposure to research, mentorship and the meat science profession. Those experiences ultimately shaped a distinguished career, including 40 years on the faculty at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, induction into the Meat Industry Hall of Fame and being a member of the team that was the first-ever U.S. recipient of the International Prize in Meat Science and Technology. Today, he and Ellen hope to create similar opportunities for future Aggies through the Chris ’77 and Ellen ’76 Calkins Endowed Scholarship.

“I feel like I got a lot of the tools that made me able to have a successful career while at A&M,” Calkins said. “We’ve always had this in the back of our minds and now seemed like a good time to step forward and make it happen.”

The scholarship supports Department of Animal Science students who participate in undergraduate meat science research while encouraging involvement in the American Meat Science Association, internships and employment that provide practical industry experience.

A photo of a two older people standing together outside posing for a nice photo
Today Chris and Ellen are excited to share their gift to help students become industry leaders.

Preparing students beyond the classroom

Calkins said they intentionally designed the scholarship to recognize students who take ownership of their education by seeking experiences beyond coursework.

As an undergraduate, he spent his first months working in the meat laboratory before becoming a research assistant for graduate students. That experience introduced him to scientific research and the faculty mentors who helped launch his career.

“I wanted to elevate the kinds of student enhancement activities that the Meat Science Association has,” Calkins said. “What really happens is you develop your own community and get exposed to the discipline.”

Building the next generation of industry leaders

Both Chris and Ellen have enjoyed success since graduating from Texas A&M, and they continue to credit the university with providing the foundation for success.

Calkins encourages today’s students to embrace every opportunity available during their college years.

“Be intentional and take ownership of your education,” he said. “Don’t just sit back and wait for people to bring things to you. Seek out experiences, and don’t be afraid to make yourself a little uncomfortable trying new things.”

Through their endowed scholarship, the Calkins family hopes to help future meat science students gain the same hands-on experiences, professional connections and confidence that shaped their own Aggie journey.

How to give

The Texas A&M Foundation manages gifts to the Department of Animal Science. Contributions of any size are welcome.

For more information, contact Jansen Merrill ’18 at 979-431-4148 or [email protected].