Lamar University announces 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award honorees

Lamar University is announcing the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients. Established in 1970 by the Lamar University Alumni Association, the award recognizes alumni who have excelled in their careers or life service, enhancing the university's reputation. It also honors those who have made significant contributions to their communities, state and nation through civic involvement and professional and public service.

"Lamar University has many extraordinary alumni, and the Distinguished Alumni Awards give the university the perfect opportunity to recognize their achievements, service to the university, and how they are making a difference in their professions, communities and around the world," Director of Alumni Affairs & Advancement Services Shannon Figueroa said.

This year, four alumni will receive the Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest honor Lamar University bestows upon its graduates. The recipients will be recognized at the annual Distinguished Alumni Awards dinner on Friday, June 5, at 6:30 p.m. at the Live Oak Ballroom in the Setzer Student Center.

"The 2026 honorees were chosen from a pool of talented, successful and loyal alumni. They are united by their exceptional passion, dedication and drive to make the world a better place," Figueroa said.

James Robert (Bob) McLendon ('64)

James Robert "Bob" McLendon earned a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from Lamar University in 1964. He began his career at Hughes Aircraft, contributing to early infrared night vision research, before joining Texas Instruments, where he earned a Ph.D. from Southern Methodist University. At Texas Instruments, he led engineering teams developing advanced missile systems during the Cold War and later served in executive roles, including chief information officer. After retiring in 1997, McLendon remained active in community service and Lamar University, serving on advisory councils and boards while supporting education and literacy initiatives in the Dallas area.

Brian Babin ('73)

Brian Babin, a 1973 graduate of Lamar University, represents Texas' 36th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. A former dentist, Babin practiced for 35 years in Woodville after earning his dental degree from the University of Texas. He also served in the U.S. Air Force and Army National Guard. Elected to Congress in 2015, he currently chairs the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, focusing on energy, space exploration and economic development in Southeast Texas.

Jane C.K. Fitch, M.D. ('78)

Jane C.K. Fitch earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Lamar University in 1978, graduating cum laude. She began her career as an intensive care nurse before becoming a certified nurse anesthetist and later earning her medical degree with honors. Fitch held leadership roles at Yale University and Baylor College of Medicine and served as chair of anesthesiology at the University of Oklahoma. A nationally recognized leader, she became the second woman elected president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists and has advised organizations worldwide. Now retired, she remains active in supporting education and academic institutions.

Tom Long ('79)

Tom Long, a 1979 graduate of Lamar University, is co-chief executive officer of Energy Transfer and a member of the Texas State University System Board of Regents. With a career spanning energy and finance, Long previously served as chief financial officer at multiple major energy companies, including Regency GP and DCP Midstream. Since becoming co-CEO in 2021, he has helped lead one of North America's largest energy infrastructure companies. Long also serves on several corporate and advisory boards, contributing expertise in governance, strategy and economic development.