Porter Garner | President and CEO of The Association of Former Students at Texas A&M University | Value-Driven Leadership

Porter graduated from Texas A&M in 1979 with a BBA in marketing. He joined The Association of Former Students as Field Director in 1981. Over the last 23 years as President and CEO, he has inspired innovation and led initiatives to achieve The Association’s vision to become the premier alumni organization. Porter serves on the board of Baylor Scott & White Hospital – College Station Region, and he and his wife, Lisa ’91, are Endowed Century Club donors to The Association of Former Students, Eppright Distinguished Donors, and members of the Texas A&M Legacy Society. 

Porter shares insights on generosity, positivity, and living a great life today on The Wow Factor podcast. He discusses how he has felt the power of generosity in his life and career and why he thinks there is a link between giving and happiness. In our conversation, Porter discusses the development of Texas A&M University's core values and the importance of these values for Aggies, past and present, and their families. Porter also digs into leadership qualities and why you gain so much insight into character when you look at their actions rather than words. 

“We developed a sense of humility and appreciation for the opportunities that students are given here.” 

- Porter Garner

“I see young people aligning with our core values.” - Porter Garner 

“When vision and philanthropy come together, it inspires future generations of Aggies to indeed do what they've done.” -  Porter Garner 

This Week on The Wow Factor:

• How Porter got his role at The Association of Former Students at Texas A&M University
• Porter reflects on his 42-year association with Texas A&M, including the unique aspects of the school's history and culture
• The history of the Association of Former Students at Texas A&M University
• The association's inclusive approach today, 23 years after the launch of the Aggie Network, that allows for the recognition of non-graduates and graduates alike
• Why Aggies value humility, selfless service, and camaraderie, with a strong sense of tradition and reputation
• Porter discusses the development of Texas A&M University's core values and the importance of these values for Aggies, including the comfort they provide to parents and the sense of belonging they foster among students
• The importance of integrity and ethical leadership, and inspiring others as a leader
• The importance of Aggie Park, built exclusively by private philanthropy, as a place where legacy is alive and future generations of Aggies can have the same experiences as past students
• Why it’s so vital to give with a cheerful attitude
• Porter’s strong belief in treating everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of their position or role

Porter Garner’s Words of Wisdom:

You learn a lot about people when you watch how they treat other people —it’s perhaps the greatest insight to character that there is. You can learn a lot about somebody going out to dinner with them, walking down the street with them, attending an event with them, and just watching how they treat people. 

Connect with Porter Garner: 

• Porter Garner on The Association's website
• Porter Garner on Facebook
• Porter Garner on LinkedIn

Connect with The Association of Former Students:

• The Association of Former Students on X
• The Association of Former Students on Instagram

Connect with The WOW Factor:

• The WOW Factor Website
• Connect with Brad Formsma via email
• Brad Formsma on LinkedIn
• Brad Formsma on Instagram
• Brad Formsma on Facebook
• Brad Formsma on Twitter