Aplin Center at Texas A&M

Texas A&M University takes a bold step forward in preparing students for the industries shaping our future with the groundbreaking of the Aplin Center, a first-of-its-kind immersive learning hub transforming hospitality, retail and marketing education. The Aplin Center is supported by a $60 million gift from former student Arch “Beaver” Aplin III ’80, founder and CEO of Buc-ee’s. His generosity supports the naming of the  Arch H. Aplin III '80 Department of Hospitality, Hotel Management and Tourism in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences,  and the Arch H. Aplin III '80 Department of Marketing at Mays Business School. The center will be a “game changer” and a beacon for innovation and excellence while serving as the facility for welcoming prospective and former students, providing them a place to connect and congregate.

Meet Arch "Beaver" Aplin III

Groundbreaking

On Oct. 3, 2025, Texas A&M University hosted a groundbreaking for the Aplin Center, a national model for experiential learning with immersive labs and real-world experiences for students — preparing Aggie graduates to serve Texas, the nation and beyond.

A National Model for Experiential Learning

The 211,724-square-foot, three-story mass timber facility will be the most comprehensive experiential academic facility in the nation. The facility features immersive learning laboratories, food tasting centers, student-run retail and dining spaces, and corporate training opportunities that position Texas A&M as a leader in hospitality, retail and food innovation — and serve as a primary gateway to campus for all visitors. Fly along with us as we tour the building.

Transforming the Student Experience

The center will redefine how Aggies learn. Students will gain hands-on, real-world experience by managing retail and dining operations, practicing product development and service management, and engaging in industry-partnered research and training. Lab spaces and classrooms are intentionally designed for visitors to watch students and professors learning and teaching, whether it is the intricate process of roasting coffee beans or the skillful technique of making ice cream. This live, hands-on environment will help ensure graduates are workforce-ready and industry-connected as they leave Texas A&M.

Rendering of the facade view at the arcade of the Aplin building — Architectural rendering of the facade view of the arcade at the Aplin Center.

This and all architectural renderings on this site, courtesy DLR Group, Pickard Chilton and Texas A&M University

Rendering of the entrance to the new multi-story Aplin Center and Welcome center with abundant wood details and external landscaping.

A New Front Door and Lasting Legacy

As the future home of the Texas A&M Visitor Center, the Aplin Center will redefine the campus welcome experience with a 170-seat theater, 70-seat multipurpose rooms and student ambassador spaces. It will serve as both the first stop for prospective Aggies and the last stop for graduates, bookending the Aggie journey in a vibrant, cutting-edge space.