Dr. Paul Engler
Philanthropy with Purpose
August 23, 1929 - May 3, 2024
An Innovative Cattleman
Paul Fredrick Engler developed entrepreneurial and business acumen from an early age, refining those skills throughout his life. At just 13, he bought his first 100 cows, and from then on, he was committed to revolutionizing the cattle industry through passion, devotion, and grit. A natural innovator, he routinely challenged conventional practices and embraced calculated risks. This undaunted approach propelled him to remarkable achievements, including securing an interim financing deal with Jimmy Hoffa and the Teamsters Union, and challenging Oprah Winfrey in court for her disparaging remarks about beef.
Dr. Engler, as he was affectionately known, pioneered a transformative method for determining the value of live cattle—by quality attributes and total carcass value rather than mere weight. This enhanced the quality of market animals and benefited consumers, elevating industry standards.
"Paul Engler was a driver of economic development in the Texas Panhandle for 50 years," said Dr. Ty Lawrence, Caviness Davis Distinguished Chair in Meat Science and Director of the Beef Carcass Research Center. "First with Hereford Feedyard, then with International Beef Packers in Amarillo, followed by the cattle empire of Cactus Feeders, Dr. Engler has left his mark on West Texas A&M University with an unparalleled legacy."
Through his executive-in-residence position with WTAMU, Dr. Engler provided faculty and students with unique opportunities to learn from an experienced, successful businessman. He would visit campus on Thursdays to spend time with faculty, staff, and students in the classrooms or one-on-ones in his office. Dr. Engler’s impact on the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences will resonate for generations to come.
His Enduring Legacy
Driven by a belief in giving back, Dr. Engler and his wife, Virginia “Jinx” Joan Kreycik Engler, turned their lifelong success into meaningful philanthropy through the Paul F. and Virginia J. Engler Foundation. Consistent with the mission of WTAMU, the spirit of the Engler Foundation exemplifies the impact one has on a community through hard work, willingness to lead, commitment to generosity, and the determination to succeed.
In 2017, Dr. Engler and the Foundation pledged $1 million annually for 80 years to West Texas A&M University. In recognition of this monumental commitment, the Texas A&M University Board of Regents granted naming rights to the Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences and to the Paul and Virginia Engler College of Business.
The Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences holds his name in high esteem and strives to uphold his legacy, ensuring his kindness and dedication to students are honored and remembered in every endeavor.
The Engler legacy will continue in perpetuity through their previous benefactions, future contributions, and inspired gifts made by the Foundation.
Inspired Service and Giving
Dr. Paul Engler’s commitment to traditional and experiential learning exemplified the College’s mission to provide excellence in teaching, research, and professional service.
Through the Paul F. and Virginia J. Engler Foundation, Dr. Paul Engler has left an unprecedented impact on the University, establishing the largest legacy of generosity in its history. His financial support, combined with his dedication to mentoring WTAMU students, fostered a culture of knowledge, service, and philanthropy that continues to inspire current and future generations.
His legacy and contributions ensure that the College continues to thrive, shaping the lives of students for generations to come.
