The former professor and dean was honored with the distinction by the Board of Regents.

Texas Tech University’s Board of Regents named Jim White Dean Emeritus of the Huckabee College of Architecture at its Feb. 26 meeting, honoring a career defined by visionary leadership, deep investment in students and a lasting commitment to Texas Tech. White was celebrated at the college’s scholarship dinner April 17.

White left a successful private practice to join the Texas Tech faculty in 1971, devoting himself to the program he would help transform. He was instrumental in establishing architecture as an independent academic college in 1986, shepherding its growth from a single department into a nationally recognized institution. White later served as dean of the college from 1997 to 2002. During that time, enrollment grew by 17% and key faculty were hired who continue to shape the college today. He was also influential in working with alumni and others in growing scholarship enhancement for the college. 

“Jim has dedicated his life to mentoring students and leading the Huckabee College of Architecture,” said Chris Huckabee, alumnus and former chairman of the Board of Regents. “Through countless hours of dedication, bold vision and steady leadership, Jim helped build the college into a nationally recognized program. That legacy was built through his vision, sacrifice and deep belief in what Texas Tech could become.” 

For White, the measure of his career has always been his students. 

“I’ve always been focused on student successes, and aware of their need for enhanced financial assistance in pursuit of their degree. My door was always open, whether I was dean or professor,” White said. They’re all very successful practitioners today, all over the nation – some in other countries – and that’s what makes me the proudest.” 

In retirement, White remains active in both the profession and the community. He designs homes for Habitat for Humanity, serves on the board of One Lubbock – a community development organization focused on East Lubbock – and participates in the Missions Ministry at First United Methodist Church. He attends college lectures regularly and can often be found in the front row. 

“It’s certainly an honor to be recognized,” White said. “I attribute the recognition to all of my former students and my colleagues.”

The Dean Emeritus designation is awarded by the Board of Regents and is among the highest honors the university confers upon former academic leaders.