Dr. Raymond Thompson, PhD, PE

Chairman and Director, Symphony of Elements Foundation

Dr. Raymond Thompson, the visionary Director and Chair of the Symphony of Elements Exhibition, is a renowned leader in metallurgy and materials science, driven by a lifelong passion for the transformative power of these disciplines. His dedication to advancing science, fostering education, and serving his community has shaped an illustrious career spanning more than six decades in Birmingham, where he has been a beloved resident and advocate. As a celebrated Engineering Professor at UAB, Dr. Thompson profoundly influenced generations of engineers through his engaging undergraduate and graduate courses in metallurgy, ceramics, and materials science. Even after retiring from teaching, he continued to contribute as a leader at UAB, serving on the UAB Long-Term Planning Committee, the School of Engineering Advisory Council, and as President of the UAB National Alumni Society. His efforts earned him the prestigious UAB Volunteer of the Year Award, a testament to his unwavering commitment to education and institutional excellence.