Friendship Inspires Support for EPPS Students

Thomas B. Spencer BA’02, MBA’08, PhD’16 and Jay Scott MA’09, MS’10, MS’12, PhD’15 have been friends since their doctoral orientation in the School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences (EPPS). Their recent gifts to UT Dallas will provide professional development resources for future EPPS students.

Spencer and his wife, Lily, created the Thomas and Lily Spencer Student Support Fund to offset costs related to student memberships in professional organizations. Motivated by the impact of Thomas’ own networking experience in professional societies, the Spencers’ gift aims to help EPPS students prepare for life after graduation.

“Professional societies serve important roles helping students move from academic learning to being professionals who are successful in their careers and in life on a broader scale,” Spencer said. “Societies give a leg up in terms of accessibility to professions while welcoming people from a diversity of backgrounds into a successful and impactful life.”

A first-generation college student and current associate vice president for research operations at UT Rio Grande Valley, Spencer is grateful for the many individuals who provided direction and support during his formative years at UT Dallas. In recognition of his gift and the contributions of those important supporters, a room in Green Hall was named the Thomas Spencer and Friends Conference Room.

Among the friends referenced in the room’s name is Dr. James “Jay” Scott, a clinical professor in the Naveen Jindal School of Management. Spencer and Scott grew close during their time in EPPS’ doctoral program in public affairs. They have remained friends since graduation, even working together for a time at UT Southwestern Medical Center in academic and administrative IT.

Scott made a complementary gift to EPPS to create the James Scott International Experiences Fund, which is also designed to provide students with critical professional development opportunities.

“This fund is meant to help students travel to conferences and present papers,” Scott said. “These are activities which will help students along in their career but which not all students can afford.”

At the Thomas Spencer and Friends Conference Room dedication, Dr. Jennifer S. Holmes, dean of EPPS and Lloyd V. Berkner Professor, spoke about the impact that gifts can have on students.

“Many of our students have serious need and real financial pressures,” Holmes said. “Gifts like these really help students keep on track and get the kinds of experiences they need to be successful. I hope that all our students can have transformative educational experiences and build lasting friendships like Drs. Spencer and Scott.”