During the September 29, 2017 Department Open House and the Re-Dedication Ceremony of the Dudley Hughes ‘51 Lecture Hall, Texas A&M College of Geosciences Interim Dean Dr. Debbie Thomas announced the establishment of the Dudley J. Hughes ‘51 Teaching Microscopy Lab. This incredibly generous gift by Mrs. Hughes will add significant opportunities for hands-on learning for geology and geophysics students.

The gift was given in honor of her late husband’s “devotion, passion and generosity for Texas A&M University and the Department of Geology and Geophysics.” Mr. Hughes was an acclaimed exploration geologist and celebrated philanthropist.

The lab will feature new microscopes, computers, and equipment. Students will no longer need to share old, run-down equipment. Construction for the new microscopy lab began in the summer of 2018 and is expected to be completed this fall.

Dr. Mike Pope, Geology and Geophysics Department Head, is excited for the improvements in the student’s learning experience that this lab will create.

“Mrs. Robbie Hughes’ gift provides our undergraduate students with a world-class undergraduate microscopy laboratory and will provide them with an incredible high-impact learning experience that is second to none,” said Dr. Pope. “We are very grateful to Mrs. Hughes for choosing to honor her husband with this outstanding gift.”

The College of Geosciences believes the impact this technology will play a key part in preparing the next generation’s geoscientists.

Robbie and Dudley Hughes '51