Texas A&M Professor’s Legacy Continues Through Mural and Affordable Student Housing Project

Introduction

In Bryan, Texas, a house located on South College Avenue is becoming a distinctive tribute to a much-admired Texas A&M University professor who dedicated his existence to education and assistance to others. Dr. Lee Lowery, who served as a civil engineering professor at Texas A&M for an impressive 64 years, is being honored through a mural and an affordable housing project for students.

The Inspiring Initiative

The drive to honor Dr. Lowery was led by his daughter, Kelli Lowery. She desired to celebrate her father’s dedication to the university and its students in a profound and meaningful manner. Kelli explained, “Dad gave all to this university. 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.”

Dr. Lowery’s Journey

Dr. Lowery was born in Corpus Christi and raised in Galveston. His path to becoming a revered professor was far from straightforward. After finding initial academic success challenging, he re-enrolled, succeeded academically, landing on the Dean’s List, allowing him to continue his studies. He ultimately earned three degrees from Texas A&M.

The Mural as a Tribute

As an honor to Dr. Lowery’s spirit, Kelli Lowery partnered with family friend and artist Phillip Perez to create a lasting tribute on the walls of Dr. Lowery’s former residence. The mural incorporates symbols of Dr. Lowery’s unwavering dedication to Texas A&M — including the famous A&M logo, Reveille, Ol’ Sarge, and even a larger-than-life depiction of Dr. Lowery himself. The art captures his deep affection for the community he deeply cherished.

More than a Mural

However, the tribute does not end with the murals. Dr. Lowery’s former house is being transformed into affordable housing for Texas A&M students, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for students to live and learn.

Continuing the Legacy

Kelli explained how her father always gave back to students. The transformation of the house into student housing continues Dr. Lowery’s legacy. “He was a big giver to students…We immediately looked at underfunded, underprivileged, first-year students who are in good standing and tried to create a place where they could live.”

Art With a Purpose

Artist Phillip Perez, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the unique project, stating; “I’m honored to be here, painting the portrait of her father for her and the community on this type of project. It means a lot to me, and I’m sure to a lot of other people who are going to benefit from being here. It’s just a good feeling overall to participate and be a part of something like this.”

A Scholarship Fund

In addition, a scholarship fund has been set up in Dr. Lowery’s honor by the Townsend brothers, both former students from the 1990s. Donations to the scholarship can be made through a link on the project’s Facebook page. The Lowery family, friends, and volunteers, including Aggies, will provide labor, and all donations will go towards parts for the renovation.

With each paint stroke and every student housed, Dr. Lowery’s legacy continues, impacting new generations with the lessons he tirelessly imparted during his lifetime.