Tom Bigbee ’77 credits his experience on the Texas A&M Horse Judging Team with shaping his confidence, friendships, and sense of purpose, inspiring him and his wife Donna to give back to the program for decades. Their support began with small donations and volunteering, grew into establishing the Dr. Gary D. Potter Horse Judging Endowment in 2002, and recently expanded to a planned real estate gift to ensure the team’s long-term success. Bigbee’s connection to the team and its coaches, especially Dr. Gary Potter, has been a lifelong commitment rooted in gratitude and mentorship.

Under the leadership of equine lecturer Sarah Schobert Moriarty, the team has regained national prominence, winning multiple championships in recent years. The Bigbees have actively supported these efforts through scholarships, fundraising events like the “Run for the Roses” Kentucky Derby livestream, and annual team dinners. Their ongoing involvement and significant planned gifts provide financial stability and encourage future generations of students to thrive in the horse judging program, continuing a legacy that began with Tom’s own transformative college experience.