The Texas A&M University Department of Animal Science recently received a generous gift from Betty Scott Settlemeyer, H. Matthew May, Kristina M. Stanzione and their family in support of student learning and hands-on experience. The South Texas ranchers donated a tractor and custom-made drag attachment to help maintain Freeman Arena, a key facility used by animal science students for equine and livestock activities.

A legacy rooted in agriculture

The donation reflects a family legacy tied to agriculture. River Place Ranch in Cotulla, has been in operation since 1949, spanning five generations. Growing up, Betty spent weekends and summers working cattle alongside her father, learning the values of hard work, stewardship and respect for the land.

“So much of who I am today is because of watching and learning and loving that life,” Betty said. “The hard work, the endless projects, droughts, snakes, downed fences, baby calves and mean bulls. Whatever could go wrong probably did.”

Supporting hands-on learning

During a recent visit to campus, Betty noticed the condition of Freeman Arena and asked what was most needed to support students and their animals better. The reply was simple, a tractor and a drag to work the dirt in Freeman Arena.

The equipment has already become a vital part of daily operations, helping students safely maintain the arena surface used for classes, practices and events.

“It’s a small gift in comparison to so many wonderful donors,” Betty said. “But it’s used every day, many times a day and that makes it worthwhile.”

Investing in future leaders

Betty shared that her motivation to give stems from a desire to invest in the next generation of agricultural leaders.

“These hardworking students are passionate about agriculture and its impact on every person, every day,” she said. “Investing in them means investing in the future, in the land, the animals and the values that shape who we are.”

She hopes their gift inspires others to support students and recognize opportunities to make a difference.

“Love and care of the land and the animals will inspire and motivate hard work, strong values and faith,” Betty said. “A tractor and a drag are a small investment but a powerful tool to help with that future.”

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].

Betty Scott Settlemeyer, H. Matthew May, Kristina M. Stanzione and their family standing in front of a tractor and custom-made drag attachment they donated.

Betty Scott Settlemeyer, H. Matthew May, Kristina M. Stanzione standing in front of a tractor that reads, "River Place Ranch".

Betty Scott Settlemeyer, H. Matthew May, Kristina M. Stanzione and their family operate River Place Ranch in South Texas, a fifth-generation family ranch established in 1949.