Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Aplin Center at Texas A&M University in College Station. The new facility is intended to serve as both an experiential learning hub and a welcome center for students and visitors.

During his remarks, Governor Abbott emphasized the educational opportunities the center will offer. "The Aplin Center will expand the horizon for education at Texas A&M," said Governor Abbott. "It will serve as a premier laboratory for innovation where generations of dreamers and doers can learn. I want to thank Beaver — who gave us Buc-cee's, the largest convenience store in the world — for providing students with experiential learning facilities to foster the next generation of hospitality and retail innovators."

Abbott also pointed out how Buc-ee's has changed travel habits in America and expressed optimism that the Aplin Center would similarly impact future students' education and career prospects. He stated that the center will help Texas A&M students gain knowledge necessary for success in the service industry, potentially leading to better earnings.

Others present at the event included Representative Paul Dyson, Texas A&M University System Chancellor Glenn Hegar, Vice Chancellor Dr. Susan Ballabina, Board of Regents Chairman Bob Albritton, Buc-ee's Holdings Inc. Founder Arch "Beaver" Aplin III, along with staff and supporters from Texas A&M.

The planned three-story building will focus on hospitality, retail, food, and nutrition sciences while serving as a welcome point for prospective students and guests. Construction is expected to be completed by February 2028.

Additional photos from the event are expected to be released when available.