David Coolidge '87

The 12th Man Foundation is honored to recognize David Coolidge '87 as the 2025 recipient of the E. King Gill Award, celebrating his transformational commitment to Texas A&M Athletics. Coolidge's steadfast support reflects the spirit of the 12th Man — selfless, loyal and always ready to answer the call.

A second-generation Aggie and proud father of four, Coolidge grew up in a family deeply rooted in Texas A&M University. His father, John Coolidge '52, and three older siblings all attended Texas A&M, and many of his earliest memories were formed in the stands at Kyle Field, envisioning himself one day wearing the maroon and white.

That dream became reality in 1985 when Coolidge earned a spot on Jackie Sherrill's famed 12th Man Kickoff Team — an experience that left a lasting imprint on his life. A former standout defensive back at Houston's Westbury High School, Coolidge represented the 12th Man on the field with humility, determination and an unwavering commitment to Texas A&M's success.

“David truly personifies what it means to be the 12th Man,” said Trey Henderson '80, Chair of the 12th Man Foundation Board of Trustees. “His passion and loyalty have shined throughout his entire life — as a student-athlete and as a dedicated supporter of Texas A&M Athletics.”

After graduating with a degree in industrial distribution, Coolidge built a career in the oil and gas industry and later founded Velite Capital, a natural gas commodities trading firm. His professional success created opportunities to give back to the university that shaped him.

Coolidge's impact is evident across Texas A&M Athletics. His lead gift for the Coolidge Football Performance Center at the Graham Athletic Complex served as a cornerstone of the 12th Man Foundation's Centennial Campaign, providing a world-class indoor practice facility for current and future Aggie Football student-athletes. He has also supported the Texas A&M Lettermen's Association and multiple capital projects for Aggie Athletics, and he continued that commitment through his service on the 12th Man Foundation Board of Trustees from 2020-23. His dedication was recognized with his induction into the Texas A&M Athletics Hall of Honor in 2021.

“Few individuals have demonstrated the lifelong dedication and selfless commitment that David has given to Texas A&M,” said 12th Man Foundation President and CEO Travis Dabney '96. “He has consistently answered the call and is an exceptionally deserving recipient of the E. King Gill Award.”

The 12th Man Foundation is proud to honor David Coolidge with the 2025 E. King Gill Award, recognizing a loyal Aggie whose lifelong passion and legacy of selfless service will continue to impact Texas A&M Athletics for generations to come.

Coolidge was formally recognized at Kyle Field during the Texas A&M-South Carolina game on Nov. 15, 2025, and his story will be featured in an upcoming issue of 12th Man Magazine.

“David truly personifies what it means to be the 12th Man. His passion and loyalty have shined throughout his entire life — as a student-athlete and as a dedicated supporter of Texas A&M Athletics.”