A Love of History Inspires Alumnus to Give Back

Growing up in a military family, Derek Kubacki moved all over the country and overseas. During this formative time, he developed a fascination with history, especially the Vietnam War. Like his father, Kubacki was determined to serve his country, and he enlisted in the U.S. Army at 17, serving 22 years. After he retired, he enrolled at A&M-San Antonio, where he graduated in 2018 with a B.A. in history. Now, as an alumnus, he’s giving back to the University.

“History has been at the forefront of my life and wanting to learn more guided me to A&M-San Antonio,” he said. “I promised myself that after I graduated, if the opportunity arose to give back to the department that helped form my understanding of the teaching of history, that I would do what I could,” he said.

Recognizing the importance of studying and understanding the past, Kubacki said he benefitted greatly from A&M-San Antonio’s guest speaking events. One of the most impactful experiences he had at the University was when Dr. Edward Westermann, a Regents Professor of History and renowned expert on the Holocaust, hosted Rose Sherman Williams, a Holocaust survivor and former San Antonio resident (she passed away in January).

“It was very powerful to hear her perspective,” he said. “There aren’t many voices like hers that are still with us.”

This experience is what inspired him to later give his first donation to A&M-San Antonio. He wanted to make an impact on the department that shaped his time as an undergraduate and support current students. He started by donating a $500 annual gift to bring other guest lectures to campus. Over time, he has been able to increase his donation to $1,500 a year.

Kubacki has found a meaningful way to share his passion and love of history with fellow Jaguars. As he continues to advance in his career, he said he’s partnering with University Advancement to further increase his annual donation. He’s also looking into setting up an endowment to continue his support. 

“I’m so proud to be part of A&M-San Antonio,” he said. “I got a lot out of my experience there, and it feels good to be able to give something back.”