Recipe For Success

Paul Foster, BBA '79, knows what it is like to struggle academically. During his freshman year at Baylor, he lost his full scholastic scholarship because of slipping grades and had to learn better study skills. Now a successful businessperson, Foster said this college experience prompted his donation of $3 million for the renovation of Baylor's Success Center. The center will house six departments devoted to helping students reach their full potential academically: Academic Advisement, Academic Support Services, Career Counseling, Career Services, Office of Access and Learning Accommodation and Student-Athlete Services.

Currently, Success Center services are scattered in various locations across campus, making it difficult for students to access these services readily. The new center will unite the six academic departments under one roof -- the Sid Richardson Building, located on the central axis of campus. 

"I was trying to think of something that really would have an impact upon a broad group of students," Foster said. "Reflecting back on my time at Baylor, I feel like if I would have had something like [the Success Center], it would have made a big difference. ... I just think it would be great to have a one-stop shopping type of arrangement for student services." 

"The ultimate goal of the Paul L. Foster Success Center is to ensure that Baylor students succeed academically, complete their degree programs and then utilize the resources available to emerge as global leaders," said Brandon Miller, assistant vice president of the Success Center. "Mr. Foster's gift will directly support Baylor 2012 and will help Baylor achieve its goal of being recognized as a top-tier university committed to Christ."

About half of the funding needed to start the renovations has been received. For more information, contact Cindy Dougherty, Baylor University Development, (254) 710-2561 or 1-800-BAYLOR-U, option 4.

Foster is president and CEO of Western Refining Co., which he formed in 1997. The company is currently the single refining operation located in the heart of El Paso and is one of the largest suppliers of gasoline, diesel and jet fuel to the Phoenix, Tucson, Albuquerque and El Paso markets. Foster is a CPA and is a member of many professional organizations. He serves as chair of the board for the El Paso American Red Cross and serves on the boards of the Sun Bowl Association and Bank of the West.