Six Galveston Campus Students Receive Prestigious Buck Weirus Spirit Award

On Saturday, April 6, six students from Texas A&M University at Galveston received the Buck Weirus Spirit Award in College Station. This competitive award is granted annually by the Association of Former Students to 75 current students whose outstanding involvement makes a positive difference in the lives of others. In Galveston, the recognized student leaders all participate in student organizations, service projects, Aggie traditions and more.

“Receiving this award is such an incredible honor, and I’m truly humbled. It means so much to be recognized—not just for the work I’ve done, but for the heart I’ve poured into this campus community,” said award recipient Jenna Koch ’26. “I’m so proud of myself, and even more proud of the peers who’ve walked alongside me, shown up, stepped up, and made a difference in their own ways. We’ve all played a part in creating a campus that thrives on connection, passion, and purpose.”

The Buck Weirus Spirit Award, named for Richard “Buck” Weirus ’42, recognizes students for their outstanding contributions to student life programs at Texas A&M University. Weirus served as executive director of The Association of Former Students from 1964 to 1980. The Buck Weirus Spirit Award was established by The Association’s Board of Directors in 1982 in his honor.

Koch and her fellow awardees are highly involved on campus, serving in leadership roles in organizations across campus and the Galveston community. Koch holds an officer position in several of the campus’ organizations, including Student Government Association, Freshmen Serving the Humanity of Texas, Sisterhood Of University Leaders, Traditions Council and SALT Camp.

“Getting involved on campus has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college journey,” Koch said. “It’s through clubs, organizations, leadership roles, and service opportunities that I’ve grown not just as a student, but as a person. I’ve learned how to lead, how to listen, and how to be part of something bigger than myself. These experiences have given me friendships that feel more like family and memories that I’ll carry with me long after graduation.”

“To anyone wondering if it’s worth getting involved: it absolutely is,” she continued. “Find your people, find your passion, and don’t be afraid to show up—you never know where it might lead.”

2025 honorees include Galveston Campus students Mara Currier ’25, Alli DeYoung ’25, Kolbe Hatz ’25, Alexandria Jass ’25, Jenna Koch ’26 and Patrick Smith ’25. To find the full list of Buck Weirus Spirit Award winners, please visit the Association of Former Students website.

“It’s through clubs, organizations, leadership roles, and service opportunities that I’ve grown not just as a student, but as a person. I’ve learned how to lead, how to listen, and how to be part of something bigger than myself.”