In the past Texas A&M University had established the "Inspiration Award for Exceptional Secondary Education" to honor Texas high school teachers who made a significant impact on Texas A&M graduating seniors while they were in high school. The Inspiration Award was presented to teachers from May 2006 through May 2015.
While the award was active, each degree candidate was allowed to nominate one high school teacher who challenged him/her to excel at the collegiate level and beyond. A committee was appointed by the Student Body President to review the nominees and make the selections. The teacher selected for the Texas A&M Inspiration Award for Exceptional Secondary Education received a check in the amount of $2,000, a certificate and an all-expense paid trip to campus. The high school where the teacher taught the nominating student also received a check in the amount of $1,000. Two recipients could be honored at the May Commencement, one at the August ceremonies and one at the December commencement. (Note: A minimum of 10 nominations had to be received for this award to be presented in May.) Nominations were accepted from undergraduate and graduate students. The recipient of the award was recognized at the ceremony in which the nominating student received their diploma.
A teacher was only eligible if he/she taught a Texas A&M degree candidate in high school within the State of Texas. Previous recipients were not eligible for this award. A list of previous Inspiration Award winners can be obtained from the Student Government Association.