Weldon Smith has been involved in the oil business since he graduated from The University of Texas in 1934. Running his own oil-drilling company for the past 50 years has kept him plenty busy. And so has serving as president of the International Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors, the most influential organization in the field.

But if oil has been Weldon Smith's sustenance, UT has been his life-blood. He has devoted a lifetime of voluntary service to his alma mater--initiating projects, advising committees, inspiring students, and fundraising for such projects as the Lila B. Etter Alumni Center. No wonder he was chosen as the Outstanding Houston Texas Ex in 1992 and won a Distinguished Alumni Award in 1998. Weldon Smith may be UT Austin's most loyal fan.

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