Texas Tech Alumna and Philanthropist Leaves a Legacy

Development

Written by Gary Vaughn

Long time Lubbock philanthropist and Texas Tech alumna Nelda Thompson died Dec. 29. She was 84.

Thompson received a BBA from Texas Tech in 1948 and and MBA from the University of Denver in 1952. She taught business writing at Texas Tech from 1952-61.

Thompson worked for the United Way of Lubbock from 1957 to 1985, as the community planning director and as executive director. The present United Way building is named in her honor. After retiring from the United Way, she served as the executive director of The CH Foundation from 1990-2002. The CH Foundation awarded more than $10 million in grants to Texas Tech during the time Thompson was the Executive Director.

"She did so much for our community,” said Dr. Bess Haley, Associate Vice Chancellor and Dean Emeritus. “She personified the giving spirit and both Texas Tech and Lubbock were blessed in many ways because of her generosity.”

Thompson received numerous community awards and honors and is credited with being the driving force behind the formation of several local health and social service agencies.

Jan 15, 2020