The Engler College of Business at West Texas A&M University proudly announces a significant milestone in its history. Thanks to a generous $3 million donation from Amarillo National Bank, the unit housing the academic disciplines of Accounting, Economics, and Finance (AEF) has been officially renamed the Amarillo National Bank School of Accounting, Economics, and Finance. This generous gift, the largest in the bank’s history, solidifies the longstanding partnership between Amarillo National Bank and the College of Business.
The announcement, made on February 14, and following approval by the Board of Regents on February 9, signifies the bank’s commitment to nurturing talent and investing in the business community’s future. As the largest family-owned bank in the United States, Amarillo National Bank’s dedication to the success of its employees and the communities it serves is truly commendable.
The generous donation from Amarillo National Bank not only solidifies its commitment to the academic community but also underscores the value of education provided by the Engler College of Business. With this significant gift, the Engler College of Business will be able to expand its academic programs and provide even greater opportunities for students.
Education is the cornerstone of personal and professional development, and the Engler College of Business has a longstanding reputation for delivering high-quality business education. The College is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving business education landscape. Amarillo National Bank’s support acknowledges the College’s commitment to excellence in education.
The funds from the donation will be strategically utilized to expand the academic programs within the Amarillo National Bank School of Accounting, Economics, and Finance. This infusion of resources will enable the Engler College of Business to offer transformative accounting and finance programs, bring state-of-the-art technology into the curriculum, and provide opportunities for experiential learning. By investing in the academic program, the Engler College of Business ensures students receive a cutting-edge education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.
In addition to enhancing academic programs, the gift will support the establishment of scholarships for deserving students. The Engler College of Business believes that access to quality education should be unrestricted by financial constraints. The scholarships provided by Amarillo National Bank will empower students to pursue their educational aspirations without the burden of excessive financial stress, allowing them to focus entirely on their studies and personal growth.
Dean Amjad Abdullat expressed his profound gratitude and excitement, emphasizing the significance of the extraordinary gift from Amarillo National Bank. He stated, “This remarkable donation signifies the bank’s unwavering confidence in the exceptional quality of our students. It is a point of pride for our College and a resounding endorsement of our mission to provide the highest standard of business education.”
In light of establishing the Amarillo National Bank School of Accounting, Economics, and Finance, the Engler College of Business searched for a director who could effectively steer the School into its next chapter. A search committee appointed by Dr. Abdullat carefully reviewed nominations from the faculty and unanimously selected Dr. Anne Macy as the Director of the School.
Dr. Anne Macy’s appointment as the Amarillo National Bank School of Accounting, Economics, and Finance Director brings abundant leadership experience and a deep-rooted connection to the community. Her involvement in various local boards and associations has fostered meaningful relationships that will further fortify the Engler College of Business’s bonds with the community.
A wealth of experience and expertise characterizes Dr. Macy’s remarkable journey. She joined West Texas A&M University in 1998 and has been integral to the College’s success. Dr. Macy holds an undergraduate degree from the University of South Dakota and earned her master’s degree and Ph.D. degree from Texas Tech. She also serves as the Edwards Professor of Finance and holds the prestigious position of Editor of the Southwestern Economic Review.
Throughout her tenure at WT, Dr. Macy has made a lasting impact on students and faculty with her remarkable accomplishments, which include winning esteemed College teaching and service awards, spearheading the Student-Managed Investment Fund, co-chairing the CFA team, and leading numerous study abroad trips.
As Director, Dr. Macy’s pivotal role will encompass shaping the curriculum, fostering valuable student employment opportunities, and cultivating stronger community relationships. Her collaborative approach and unwavering dedication to excellence will ensure that the Amarillo National Bank School of Accounting, Economics, and Finance continues to provide a transformative educational experience, equipping students to become future leaders in their respective fields.
The Engler College of Business and the Amarillo National Bank School of Accounting, Economics, and Finance are excited by the possibilities ahead under Dr. Macy’s exceptional leadership. Her visionary outlook, remarkable expertise, and profound community connections will propel the School to unprecedented heights, solidifying its reputation as a preeminent institution for business education and further bolstering its impact on the local business community. The Engler College of Business congratulates Dr. Anne Macy on her well-deserved appointment. With complete confidence in her leadership abilities and unwavering commitment to fostering community partnerships, we anticipate her invaluable contributions to the continued success and growth of the Amarillo National Bank School of Accounting, Economics, and Finance.