After earning her civil engineering degree from Texas A&M University in 1996, Lisa Montemayor maintained close ties to her alma mater. As a student, she developed a network of classmates and mentors who supported each other through academic and personal challenges.
Decades later, Lisa’s daughter, Abby Montemayor, followed a similar path. Now a member of the class of 2026, Abby enrolled in several of the same courses and participated in organizations her mother once had, witnessing both changes on campus and traditions that remain.
After graduation, Lisa worked on civil engineering projects in Houston. She balanced her career with raising Abby, emphasizing the importance of being present and supportive. Abby cited her mother as a role model and credited her with inspiring her interest in engineering.
“Engineering takes grit. It takes tenacity,” Abby said. “I always have to remind myself what a privilege it is to be here.”
Abby has built her own network at Texas A&M, finding support through her peers and professors. Her mother used similar relationships to shape not only her college experience, but her career.
Reflecting on their experiences, Lisa and Abby share a mutual respect and appreciation for Aggie traditions.
“Our big thing is sharing the joy and love of Texas A&M,” Abby said. “We enjoy serving people and showing them what makes this university special and different.”