About the President

Tyson Voelkel is a visionary leader whose life embodies a spirit of service, excellence and transformative impact. As president and CEO of the Texas A&M Foundation, he was hired to successfully lead the largest higher education capital campaign in Texas history—the historic $4 billion Lead by Example campaign for Texas A&M University. During his eight years as CEO, the Foundation has provided over $1.5 billion in cash and assets to the university, added more than $1.5 billion to its endowment and increased assets under management by over $2 billion. This unprecedented growth has annually directly impacted over 12,000 students through scholarships, supported 500 faculty members, and fueled hundreds of programs and initiatives that are building a brighter future for the state, nation and world.

Demonstrating their personal commitment to the university's mission, Tyson and his wife, Christi, are Legacy Society members, Heritage Society members and Endowed Century Club members. They were also among the top 400 donors to Texas A&M during the Lead by Example campaign.

Before his tenure at the Foundation, Tyson led a Houston-based consultancy focused on building, managing and advising ultra-high-net-worth family offices. He also served as COO for a multibillion-dollar holding company comprising more than a dozen operating companies and philanthropic endeavors.

A native of Brenham, Texas, Tyson holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial distribution from Texas A&M University, a master’s degree in international relations and national security from the Bush School of Government and Public Service, and an MBA from Rice University.

From an early age, Tyson demonstrated a commitment to excellence, achieving Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. At Texas A&M, he was a dynamic student leader and advocate, participating in many student organizations and causes to include the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band and Ross Volunteers. He became the first Aggie Bandsman to serve as Corps of Cadets Commander. A recipient of the Buck Weirus Spirit Award and numerous academic and leadership accolades, Tyson embraced the traditions of Texas A&M, recognizing their vital role in his transformational education alongside rigorous academics.
 

Tyson proudly served as a U.S. Army infantry officer, undertaking distinguished leadership roles during peacetime and combat. His military service spanned Europe, the United States and the Middle East. Twice serving as a company commander in combat with the 82nd Airborne Division, he earned numerous awards, including two Bronze Stars in Iraq, the Department of the Army MacArthur Leadership Award, and the Army Ranger and Airborne Qualification Badges. A jumpmaster with senior parachutist rating, he also holds the Combat Infantryman’s Badge. His military career not only took him around the world but also afforded him the honor of teaching leadership and ethics at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He continues his service as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Deeply committed to national security and education at the strategic level, Tyson is a board member of the Atlantic Council and served as a commissioner for the Technology Commission for National Security and the U.S. Economy at the Krach Institute. He was also selected as a commissioner for the Association of Governing Boards’ Higher Education as a Strategic Asset Commission, contributing his expertise to shape policies that strengthen the nation’s future. In 2024, the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston also named him a Global Leader of Influence in its Jesse H. Jones Awards.

Tyson has served on numerous boards, always seeking to make a positive impact. He was the first student regent appointed to The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents and currently serves on the board of America’s Frontier Fund as well as the Texas A&M Board of Visitors, the Galveston A&M Board of Visitors, and the Bush School of Government and Public Service Advisory Board. He has also served as a class agent for the Class of 1996.

A frequent speaker on leadership, Tyson was honored to be the 2023 Texas A&M University Campus Muster speaker. His inspirational messages continue to motivate and guide future generations of leaders.

The Voelkel family believes that a life of service is a life of meaning. Tyson, Christi and their three daughters generously donate their time and resources to various causes. Residing in College Station, Texas, they continue to embody the Aggie Spirit, dedicating themselves to service, leadership and the pursuit of excellence.

In the Media

70 Years of Building a Brighter Future

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Texas A&M Foundation. Formed by 21 passionate former students in 1953, our organization continues to carry on their vision of building a brighter future for Texas A&M University through private philanthropy.

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Honored in Aggieland

An honorary or memorial gift in Aggieland is the perfect way to celebrate those who hold a special place in your heart.

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Unconditional Love

Christi '98 and Tyson Voelkel '96 honor their late daughter Lily with an endowed scholarship for Aggies pursuing special education degrees.

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