Thompson, Joe Clark, 1901-1961

Completed in 1970, the University of Texas at Austin built the Joe C. Thompson Conference Center (TCC), specifically designed for use in continuing education and public service programs directed at off-campus adult groups. In its first year, September 1970-August 1971, the TCC held 330 conferences, meetings, institutes, etc., sponsored by University, state organizations and departments, as well as private or corporate entities, with over 38,000 participants.

Joe C. Thompson was born in Waxahachie, Texas, on January 25, 1901. From the University of Texas, he earned A.B. and B.B.A. degrees. In 1922, he began an ice business, which eventually grew into an international merchandising organization, called Southland Corporation (parent company of 7-Eleven Convenience Stores). In 1956, Thompson became the first life member of the Ex-Students Association, symbolizing permanent membership in the University, and joined the UT Development Board. The following year he was appointed to the University’s Board of Regents and supported the UT’s first computer program development.

Thompson first discussed the idea of a conference center in 1956. He became involved in educational meetings, including the Industrial Conference Board. After his death on June 11, 1961, funds from the Thompson family, Southland Corporation, and the UT Board of Rents helped the approval of the TCC on June 18, 1966. The building was dedicated on October 30, 1970, and includes seminar and conference rooms, a library, administrative offices, an auditorium, and other areas to promote numerous interests and activities and to unite the academic community and the public.