Among these legacy families are parents who first met in LeTourneau’s classrooms or campus quads, their college romance blossoming into lifelong partnerships. Now, decades later, they're entrusting their own children to the same institution that brought them together. It speaks to something powerful when a university doesn't just educate students but becomes the foundation for families and futures.
More Than Just Academics
Our reputation for excellence in engineering, aviation, and technology draws students from around the world, legacy families know there's something deeper at work. The culture here builds more than careers; it shapes character.
"Four years built and molded me as a person," shares Deena Shelton, faculty and alumni whose child is now following in her footsteps.
"It's a solid foundation in academics, but also in purpose and calling."
This dual focus—intellectual rigor paired with personal growth—creates an environment where students don't just learn formulas and theories. They discover who they're meant to become.
The Art of Intelligent Fun
Ask any LeTourneau graduate about their college years, and you'll likely hear stories of elaborate pranks that required as much engineering prowess as any class project. Students have long used their intelligence not just for academic pursuits but for creating memorable moments that become campus legends.
These aren't your typical college shenanigans. At LeTourneau, even the fun is purposeful, building the kind of community bonds and creative problem-solving skills that serve graduates well beyond their college years. It's this balance of serious learning and joyful community that parents remember, and want their children to experience.
The Power of Multi-Generational Impact
There's something profound about multi-generational legacy at any institution, but at LeTourneau, the impact seems to compound with each passing generation.
"The longer the legacy, the more impactful it is."
These families aren't just choosing LeTourneau because it's familiar; they're choosing it because they've seen its transformative power across decades. They've witnessed how the university's emphasis on connecting education with purpose creates graduates who don't just find jobs but discover their calling.
The 27 legacy freshmen starting this fall represent more than enrollment numbers. They're a living testament to an institution that has successfully preserved what matters most while continuously improving what it offers. In a world where institutional loyalty is increasingly rare, these families are voting with their most precious investment: their children's futures.
