Rawls College has a long tradition of honoring distinguished, committed individuals and organizations who have shaped the world and strengthened their communities. Each year, the college recognizes the diverse talents and accomplishments of Rawls College alumni and friends with a variety of awards.
The Jerry S. Rawls College of Business celebrated its 2024 award honorees at the Distinguished Alumni & Awards reception and dinner Friday, Nov. 8, 2024. In total, five awards were presented: Distinguished Alumni, Jerry S. Rawls Excellence in Business, Distinguished Partner, Innovation, and Honorary Alumni.
Distinguished Alumni
Founded in 1986, the Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor Rawls College can bestow upon alumni and friends. The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a record of distinguished service and extraordinary achievement in their chosen field. Honorees have made a positive impact on both Rawls College and Texas Tech, serving as an inspiration to current students and alumni.
Hank Dorris, Entrepreneur
BBA, Finance, 1985
Hank Dorris began his career selling industrial hose for his father at Stuart Hose and Pipe, but soon transitioned to the family’s other business, Specialty Packaging. Starting in 1986, Hank learned the ropes by working on bag machines and in freight, eventually developing a program to analyze production efficiencies.
Tom Mathiasmeier, President of Global Gas, Power & Emerging Markets, ConocoPhillips
BBA, Marketing, 1989; MBA 1991
With more than 33 years of experience in natural gas marketing and trading, Tom found his passion in the industry early in his career. He played a key role in growing ConocoPhillips into one of North America's top five gas marketers, a position it has held for over 20 years. Since 2008, Tom has led various divisions, including U.S. power, midstream, and the company’s London office.
Mark Miller, President & CEO, Goosehead
BBA, Accounting, 1987
Mark Miller joined Goosehead, a $3 billion publicly traded personal lines insurance brokerage company, two years ago as president and COO and took on the role of CEO July 1, 2024. He has played a crucial role in the company’s growth and strategic direction since joining the board of directors at Goosehead’s IPO in April 2018. Goosehead has achieved in excess of 30 percent year-over-year increase in premium growth since the IPO.
Pat Mann Phillips, Chairman of the Board, Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
BBA, Finance, 1983
Pat Mann Phillips, a native Texas executive with a rich background rooted in agriculture, energy, and land development, brings more than three decades of extensive experience to her role as chairman of the board of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo (HLSR).
Jerry S. Rawls Excellence in Business
The Jerry S. Rawls Excellence in Business Award recognizes Texas Tech alumni who have made significant contributions in their career while also having a significant impact on Rawls College or the business community. Honorees of this award uphold the highest standards and values while blazing trails and contributing to their industries and to Texas Tech.
This year's Jerry S. Rawls Excellence in Business Award Honoree is:
Deverl Maserang, Board Member and Private Equity Advisor, LegacyEV & Genera
BS, Industrial Engineering, 1987
Deverl Maserang's career spans over three decades, working with iconic global brands. Starting in operations, he advanced to global supply chain executive and later transitioned into general management, becoming a CEO and leading turnarounds. He now serves as a board advisor to LegacyEV and Genera, while also supporting two private equity firms with due diligence and consulting.
Distinguished Partner
The Distinguished Partner Award recognizes non-alumni or organizations who have made a significant impact on Rawls College. This impact could come in a variety of forms, such as hiring Rawls College alumni, mentoring current Rawls College students, or providing generous philanthropic gifts to Rawls College.
This year's Distinguished Partner Award Honoree is:
PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) is a global leader in professional services, operating in 151 countries with more than 364,000 professionals. PwC delivers a range of services including assurance, tax, and advisory, helping organizations and individuals create value and achieve strategic goals. Known for its high-quality, innovative solutions, PwC tailors its services to meet the specific needs of clients.
Innovation
The Innovation Award recognizes Rawls College alumni who have either built a new business or turned around and helped grow an established business. Honorees demonstrate an outstanding commitment to the next generation of entrepreneurs.
This year's Innovation Award Honoree is:
Blake Buchanan, Co-Founder & President of Bahama Bucks Corporation
BBA, Finance, 1991
As a Texas Tech student in 1990, Blake Buchanan hand-built the original Bahama Buck’s “Sno Shack” and introduced “The Greatest Sno on Earth! ®” to Lubbock, Texas. After earning his business degree in 1992, Blake co-founded Bahama Buck’s Franchise Corporation, where he currently serves as CEO and President.
Honorary Alumni
Rawls College presented the Honorary Alumni Award to Meredith L. Dorris. This award recognizes an individual who is not an alumnus of Texas Tech but possesses the qualities of a true Red Raider. Honorees have significantly impacted the college through their involvement, support, and contributions. They demonstrate a high moral character in alignment with the mission and vision of both Rawls College and Texas Tech.
Nominations for the 2025 awards are now open. The nomination deadline is May 31, 2025.
Nominate a Deserving Individual