East Texas A&M University recently accepted a generous $30,000 gift from a Lion alumnus to support cancer research by university professors and to fund strategic initiatives in the College of Science and Engineering (COSE).

Iraj Emami, a 1978 graduate of East Texas State University (now East Texas A&M) with a master's degree in Chemistry, was recognized for his gift in a ceremony on August 7.

Emami's path to a degree wasn't the smoothest. After graduating from the University of North Texas, he came to Commerce to complete his master's degree. He credits his professors with instilling in him a sense of service, having seen their dedication to helping students and now he wants to do what he can to help.

“I've always been very fond of this university, as it helped me a lot,” Emami said. “Now I want to help the students attending today.”

Emami, who had a lengthy career with Advanced Micro Devices, commonly known as AMD, switched gears and now serves as president of Christopher David Homes, a Bastrop, Texas-based homebuilder. He has used funds from home sales to contribute to various nonprofits through a partnership with First National Bank in Bastrop, Texas. During his most recent home sale, he decided to donate proceeds to the Bastrop Food Pantry and East Texas A&M. Jose Gonzales, senior vice president of First National Bank, who has worked with Emami on his charitable giving, also attended the ceremony.

His $30,000 gift supports two major initiatives: Cancer research in the Department of Biology, headed by Dr. Venu Cheriyath, and funding toward the College of Science & Engineering's Dean's Innovation Fund.

Emami's gift to the Dean's Innovation Fund is significant, as it's the first-ever gift to this newly established fund and will support strategic initiatives, innovative programs such as educational and research experiences and emerging needs within COSE.

Dr. Andrea Graham, dean of the College of Science and Engineering, expressed her gratitude for Emamj's gift, stating that it strengthens the college's ability to positively impact students.

“The College of Science and Engineering is deeply grateful to Iraj Emami, owner of Christopher David Homes, for his generous $20,000 gift to the College's Innovation Fund,” Graham said. “His support will help advance experiential learning initiatives, provide meaningful opportunities for our students and faculty, and strengthen our ability to turn creative ideas into impactful solutions.”

Emami stated that cancer research is near to his heart, as one of his daughters is a cancer survivor. He added that he plans to give more in the future to support the university's growth.

Devin Girod, vice president for philanthropy and engagement, said that Emami's gift will provide resources to East Texas A&M to pursue new opportunities.

“We are grateful for Mr. Emami's generosity and innovative approach to philanthropy. His gift demonstrates how business and social impact can come together—creating a home for a family while investing in education and research,” Girod said. “By launching the Dean's Innovation Fund, he is also providing flexible resources for our faculty and students to pursue new ideas and opportunities in science and engineering.”

Interested in giving to East Texas A&M? See how you can make an impact at etamu.edu/give