Attending Texas A&M University would not have been possible for Mark Cooke without the scholarships he received throughout his undergraduate degree. Growing up with five siblings, Mark knew that paying his way through college would not be easy.
“It was pretty much upon each one of us kids… if we wanted to go to college, we had to figure out a way to make that happen for ourselves,” Mark said.
With rigorous coursework on his plate and a love for the Aggie Spirit in his heart, Mark learned that this was not a battle he had to fight alone – donors were there to help pave the path forward.
Years later and inspired by those who gave him the gift of education, Mark and his wife Mary established the Mary and Mark E. Cooke ’75 Endowed Scholarship in the Department of Chemical Engineering so they can be the difference for other students hoping to attend college.
A Connection to Aggieland
Mark’s path to choosing Aggieland started with a classmate known to many, John Sharp, who now serves as the Chancellor of the Texas A&M System. Sharp was a senior at Bloomington High School when Mark was a freshman there. Inspired by his classmate’s success, Mark decided he could do the same.
During his time at Texas A&M, Mark was actively involved in Alpha Phi Omega and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. While balancing a busy schedule, Mark served as the President of Tau Beta Pi, the National Engineering Honor Society. In that role, Mark learned what it takes to lead others and organize events.
“Students should not be worrying about where the money is going to come from, rather focusing on enjoying their time in college,” Mark said.
After graduating with his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, Mark started his professional career alongside his wife Mary. In the effort to stay connected with Aggieland, Mark listened to football games on the radio in their one-bedroom apartment.
Mark embarked on a career with Union Carbide and Dow Chemical, serving in various roles and leadership experiences. After nearly 40 years, Mark is now retired, ending his tenure as an Associate Director.
A Helping Hand
Mark and Mary have three kids together, two daughters and a son. Their son Aaron is an Aggie himself, graduating in 2002 with a degree in environmental design. Embracing the culture and new title, Mary now proudly sports an ‘Aggie Mom’ necklace everywhere she goes.
“I think I have gotten swept up into the culture. We are trying to stay connected with Aggieland as much as we can,” Mary said.
Mary hopes that the recipients can help give back to students in situations just like they were in college.
“We hope that one day, if able to, they can pay it forward. We want to create a legacy of helping people attain their dreams,” Mary said.
The Cooke’s story shows that there is more to college than getting a degree. The Aggie Network connects us all, and it is important to step outside of your comfort zone to experience it to its fullest. The Cooke’s believe that there are two degrees when you go to college, one for academics and one to grow socially. With the creation of this scholarship, Mark and Mary hope to provide a chance for a student to fully give themselves to college life.
“There is so much more than getting an academic degree in college. I encourage students to take full advantage of all the opportunities, the traditions, and the organizations that Texas A&M offers,” Mark said.