In Honor of a Legacy: Mural and Affordable Student Housing Project Pays Tribute to a Texas A&M Professor
Amid the bustling life of Bryan, Texas, a house on South College Avenue is slowly emerging as a unique tribute to Dr. Lee Lowery, a much-loved professor who devoted his life to education and aiding others. The late Civil Engineering professor at Texas A&M University, who educated generations of thinkers over 64 years, is now being commemorated with a mural and student-affordable housing project.
Spearheading the Initiative
Initiative for this tribute was led by Dr. Lowery’s own daughter, Kelli Lowery who wished to honor her father’s dedication to the university and its body of students in a way that was truly meaningful. “Dad gave all to this university,” Kelli stated. “His emails ended with the tagline, ‘You will find when you die that which you have given to others does not die with you.’ That was his mantra and how he lived his life.”
A Tribute Mural
Honoring her father’s spirit, Kelli collaborated with family friend and artist Phillip Perez to create a vibrant and lasting homage on the walls of Dr. Lowery’s former residence. The heartwarming mural brings together symbols of Dr. Lowery’s unwavering commitment to the Texas A&M University – including distinctive A&M logos, portraits of Dr. Lowery himself, and more. This fascinating tribute vividly encapsulates his profound affection for the community he treasured.
Perez, explaining the significance of this project, mentioned, “It’s about honoring someone who committed so much time and effort to the school and the students. I’m here to put in time for them as well.”
The Affordable Student Housing Project
Beyond the artistic memorial, the house is being transformed into affordable accommodation for Texas A&M students, establishing a secure and supportive environment for students to live and learn. Kelli explains her motivation, citing her father’s philanthropy. “He was a big giver to students. When the house came up, it became a matter of what to do with it when I didn’t need it to live in. We immediately focused on underfunded, underprivileged, first-year students who are in good standing to create a place where they could live.”
Continuing the Legacy
Dr. Lowery’s legacy is left to resonate not only through the colorful strokes adorning the murals, but also through the affordable housing it supports. Kelli shared, “We were taught that hard work creates good luck, and that’s what he did his whole life. That’s what I continue to strive to make happen, you know, in his legacy.”
Contributions to the Project
A scholarship fund has been established in Dr. Lowery’s honor, with pertinent information available on the project’s Facebook page for those who wish to make a contribution. Donations for the renovation of Dr. Lowery’s abode can also be made via Cash App and Zelle, with the proceeds going towards parts and labor provided by the Lowery family, friends, and volunteers.
