Texas Tech University, located in the heart of Lubbock, Texas, has a rich history of producing talented and influential individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective fields. From business and politics to sports and entertainment, Texas Tech alumni have achieved great success and recognition. Here are 10 notable Texas Tech alumni you should know:
1. Mac Davis - Musician and Actor
Mac Davis, a 1958 graduate of Texas Tech, is a renowned musician, actor, and television host. He is best known for his hit songs "Baby Don't Get Hooked on Me" and "Stop and Smell the Roses." Davis has also appeared in various films and television shows, including "The Mac Davis Show" and "North Dallas Forty."
2. Gary Morris - Musician and Actor
Gary Morris, a 1972 graduate of Texas Tech, is a country music singer and actor. He has released several albums and singles, including the hit song "The Wind Beneath My Wings." Morris has also appeared in various television shows and films, including "The Tonight Show" and "Trader Horn."
3. John Steinbeck IV - Author
John Steinbeck IV, a 1969 graduate of Texas Tech, is an American author and journalist. He is the son of Nobel Prize-winning author John Steinbeck. Steinbeck IV has written several books, including "The Other Side of Eden" and "The Winter of Our Discontent."
4. Don Williams - Musician
Don Williams, a 1958 graduate of Texas Tech, is a country music singer and songwriter. He is known for his smooth baritone voice and hits like "Good Ole Boys Like Me" and "Love Me Over Again." Williams has been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and has won several awards, including multiple Grammy Awards.
5. Rick Neal - Businessman and Philanthropist
Rick Neal, a 1972 graduate of Texas Tech, is a successful businessman and philanthropist. He is the founder and CEO of several companies, including Neal Resources Group and Neal Petroleum. Neal has also been involved in various charitable organizations, including the Texas Tech University Foundation.
6. Dylan Ratigan - Journalist and Author
Dylan Ratigan, a 1994 graduate of Texas Tech, is a journalist and author. He is the founder of the news organization "Dylan Ratigan's Revolution" and has written several books, including "Greedy Bastards" and "Heroes, Villains, and the Lessons of History."
7. Wes Studi - Actor
Wes Studi, a 1967 graduate of Texas Tech, is a renowned actor known for his roles in films like "Dances with Wolves," "The Last of the Mohicans," and "Avatar." Studi has won several awards for his performances, including an Honorary Academy Award.
8. Tommy Tuberville - Politician and Former Football Coach
Tommy Tuberville, a 1976 graduate of Texas Tech, is a politician and former football coach. He served as the head coach of the Texas Tech Red Raiders football team from 1995 to 1998 and later became a U.S. Senator from Alabama.
9. Jimmie Dale Gilmore - Musician
Jimmie Dale Gilmore, a 1965 graduate of Texas Tech, is a country music singer and songwriter. He is known for his distinctive voice and hits like "Tonight I Think I'm Gonna Go Downtown" and "Honky Tonk.
10. John P. Davis - Engineer and NASA Employee
John P. Davis, a 1963 graduate of Texas Tech, is an engineer and NASA employee. He worked as a systems engineer for NASA's Apollo program and played a crucial role in the development of the Apollo 11 spacecraft.
We hope this list of notable Texas Tech alumni has given you a glimpse into the many talented individuals who have graduated from this esteemed institution. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have helped shape the world we live in today.
What is Texas Tech University known for?
+Texas Tech University is known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and agriculture, as well as its research initiatives and athletic teams.
Who is the most famous Texas Tech alumnus?
+While opinions may vary, Mac Davis is often considered one of the most famous Texas Tech alumni, given his successful music and acting career.
What is the Texas Tech University Foundation?
+The Texas Tech University Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports the university through fundraising, scholarships, and other initiatives.