DENTON (UNT), Texas — The University of North Texas has received a transformational planned gift commitment from alumnus James W. Thomason to establish two endowments supporting the College of Music and the Department of Dance and Theatre. The approximately $2 million bequest will create the James Thomason Endowed Chair of the One O’Clock Lab Band and the James Thomason Theatre Excellence Fund. 

The gift reflects Thomason’s lifelong appreciation for jazz, theatre and the experiences that shaped him during his time at UNT. The endowment includes $1.5 million to establish an endowed chair supporting the internationally acclaimed One O’Clock Lab Band and $500,000 to create a fund benefiting theatre programs and student experiences within UNT’s Department of Dance and Theatre. 

“UNT’s impact is often measured in the lives it changes and the communities it strengthens,” said Harrison Keller, president of UNT. “This gift honors the transformative role the arts play in higher education and ensures future generations of students will continue to learn, create and grow in an environment defined by excellence. We are honored by James Thomason’s generosity and enduring connection to UNT.”

The James Thomason Endowed Chair of the One O’Clock Lab Band will support the teaching, research and creative activities connected to one of the most respected jazz ensembles in the world. The endowed chair will provide resources for research, travel, scholarly activity and student support connected to the Division of Jazz Studies. 

“This extraordinary planned gift speaks to the lifelong connection so many alumni feel to UNT and the experiences that helped shape who they became,” said Brandon Buzbee, Vice President for University Advancement at UNT. “James Thomason’s generosity will create opportunities for students and faculty for generations to come while honoring two areas of the university that inspire creativity, excellence and bold expression. We are deeply grateful for his belief in UNT and in the power of the arts.”

The James Thomason Theatre Excellence Fund will provide ongoing support for the mission and activities of UNT’s theatre program, helping strengthen opportunities for students pursuing performance, production and creative collaboration. 

“Gifts like this strengthen the future of the arts at UNT in profound ways,” said Dr. John Richmond, Dean of the College of Music. “The One O’Clock Lab Band has influenced generations of musicians and helped define jazz education worldwide. This endowed chair will help ensure that tradition of innovation and excellence continues while investing directly in the students and faculty who carry it forward.”

Thomason earned both his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from UNT and expressed a deep appreciation for jazz music, the One O’Clock Lab Band and theatre through the establishment of these endowments.