Mac Thornberry 2026 Distinguished Alumni

Mac Thornberry's career reflects decades of leadership with a high level of national service. Thornberry served 26 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, including his role as Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, where he was consistently on the leading edge of critical defense and security issues. His legislative leadership helped create the National Nuclear Security Administration aimed at improving management of the nation’s nuclear weapons complex and establishing the Department of Homeland Security—introducing legislation to do so six months before the attacks of September 11, 2001.

Thornberry also played a key role in preparing the military to operate in emerging domains such as space and cyber while advancing innovation and acquisition reform within the Department of War (previously Department of Defense). In addition to his tenure on the Armed Services Committee, Thornberry served 14 years on the House Intelligence Committee and became a widely respected voice on defense policy, writing extensively and appearing across major media outlets.

Thornberry was recognized in The Almanac of American Politics 2020, which described him as “one of Congress’ brainiest and most thoughtful members on national and domestic security issues,” noting that he has worked at the forefront of national security.

Thornberry’s honors include the Peace Through Strength Award from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, Distinguished Service Medals from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and numerous national security leadership awards.  
Thornberry was born in Clarendon, Texas, and raised on his family’s ranch in Donley County. He is a graduate of Texas Tech University and the University of Texas School of Law. He and his wife, Sally, have two adult children.

Thornberry continues to work at the intersection of technology and national security as a board member and advisor to companies and nonprofit organizations, which reflect the values of service, perseverance, and innovation fostered within the Texas Tech University College of Arts & Sciences. 

Education

BA History, 1980