Oscar Thompson, ’52
Oscar Thompson completed his master of science in zoology degree in January 1952, making him The University of Texas at Austin’s first Black graduate. His graduation came just two years after the historic Sweatt v. Painter court decision; a landmark case involving fellow Black student Heman Sweatt, the decision successfully overturned the “separate but equal” precedent, allowing for Thompson’s enrollment in the university. After growing up in rural Rosebud, Texas, and serving the country during World War II, Thompson enrolled at UT at the age of 45. He studied sickle cell anemia with geneticist C.P. Oliver. After graduation, he worked as a college professor at Tillotson College in Austin, committed to supporting the next generation of students and Black scientists.