Biology Department Honors Ashton Funk and Kendall Austin with 2025 Ryan Tannehill Student-Athlete Excellence Awards

By: TAMU Biology

The Texas A&M Department of Biology is proud to announce the recipients of the second annual Ryan Tannehill Student-Athlete Excellence Award, which honors students who demonstrate exceptional achievement in both academics and athletics. Named after former Aggie quarterback and standout Biology major Ryan Tannehill, the award celebrates the unique dedication it takes to succeed in these two demanding arenas. While many remember Tannehill for his leadership on the football field, few may realize he was equally exceptional in the classroom, originally intending to become an orthopedic surgeon. Inspired by his father, a high school biology teacher, Ryan managed to achieve excellence across both fronts. Now a leader on the Biology Departments External Advisory Board, Tannehill developed this award to recognize students following a similarly ambitious path.

2025 Award Recipients

alex keene and kendall austinKendall Austin – Equestrian
Kendall Austin has distinguished herself through her performance both in the arena and in the classroom. A dedicated Biology major, she recently completed a summer surgical program at Baylor Medical and hopes to pursue a career in medicine. Her coach, Abby O’Mara, describes her as a “natural leader” who leads by example and consistently uplifts her teammates. Kendall’s thoughtful approach and commitment to excellence make her a true role model among student-athletes. The Biology Department is proud to have her representing our program and Texas A&M.

ashton funk and alex keeneAshton Funk – Football
Offensive tackle Ashton Funk has balanced the intense demands of Division I football with impressive academic performance as a Biology student. In addition to his success on the field, Ashton served as a student representative on the department’s External Advisory Board, where he impressed a group that includes leaders from medicine, petrochemicals, and professional sports. Most recently, he joined Dr. Alex Keene’s laboratory examining the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease on sleep regulaton—showcasing both scientific discipline and intellectual curiosity. Ashton exemplifies the spirit of this award and the promise of a future shaped by both strength and scholarship.

The Department of Biology congratulates Kendall and Ashton on this well-deserved honor and thanks Ryan Tannehill for his continued commitment to supporting excellence in every field.