From Bay Waters to Biosciences

Growing up near Galveston Bay in La Porte, Texas, Bob Arnett ’79 developed a deep appreciation for the natural world. His days were filled with fishing, swimming and sailing — activities that sparked a lifelong fascination with how things work, especially in nature. That early connection to the environment led him to study biology at Rice University, with dreams of becoming a marine biologist.

At Rice, Bob’s passion for hands-on science only deepened. He fondly recalls piling into a van with classmates to head to the coast, where they measured oyster spat and tested water temperature, turbidity and salinity. These immersive field experiences helped shape his understanding of science as something lived and explored, not just studied in textbooks.

Years later, Bob would channel that same spirit of exploration into a gift that opens doors for future generations. After years of supporting The Rice Fund, he established the J. Robert Arnett II Excellence Fund in BioSciences. The endowed fund supports undergraduate research, travel grants, awards, field trips and classroom enhancements at the Wiess School of Natural Sciences. “It’s been used to give students the chance to perform interesting research and access experiences they might not otherwise have,” he says.

Bob credits Rice, and the interactive learning it offered, with laying the foundation for his success. After graduating in 1979, he served as a Marine Corps infantry officer in Hawaii before earning a law degree from UCLA. He went on to co-found the Carter Arnett law firm in Dallas, building a distinguished legal career. Throughout his journey, the skills he developed at Rice — discipline, focus, attention to detail and a deep understanding of biological systems — remained central.

In fact, his background in biology proved unexpectedly valuable in his early legal work, particularly in personal injury defense. “My knowledge of anatomy, physiology and kinesiology made it easier and more intuitive to understand medical records and the biological aspects of my cases,” he explains.

Today, Bob’s philanthropy reflects his enduring belief in the power of hands-on scientific exploration. He remains closely connected to Rice, praising its unique culture as “a place that punches well above its weight” and continues to prepare young minds for meaningful careers.

Through his giving, Bob ensures that future Rice students can experience the same wonder he felt as a boy by Galveston Bay and as a student in the field — experiences that ignite curiosity, inspire discovery and shape lives.

Accelerate the Vision

Experiential learning is a hallmark of Rice’s distinct undergraduate education. To support students both in and outside of the classroom, contact Ginny Jones, executive director of development, at gbjones@rice.edu or 713-348-2096.