Changing Lives for the World
On Sept. 30, 2016, nearly 150 guests gathered to honor Robert ’55, ‘06 (Hon.) and Ellen ’54, ’06 (Hon.) Thompson in the very building named in the couple’s honor. The University’s first Lifetime Achievement Award was given to the Thompsons in recognition of their commitment to their alma mater and to the future of BGSU.
“How perfect to celebrate the Thompsons’ vision, generosity and kindness in the Bowen-Thompson Student Union,” said President Mary Ellen Mazey as she detailed the couple’s remarkable dedication to student success. “They serve as an example on how philanthropy at BGSU can change lives.”
Bob has said that BGSU changed his life because he met his Falcon Flame, Ellen, at a fraternity – sorority mixer while they were students here a generation ago. Ellen was a member of Gamma Phi Beta, the Swan Club and the Key yearbook staff. Bob was a member of Sigma Nu and the Arnold Air Society and was involved with football. After Ellen graduated with her degree in education in 1954 and Bob with his degree in education in 1955, they married and worked as teachers. Bob served as a pilot with the U.S. Air Force before the couple started a family and a paving business. Bob was a leader in the paving industry and received national honors for his work. When they sold the business in 1999, the Thompsons were nationally recognized for the strong business ethic and commitment to those who had worked with them.