50 Years of Living Like Lydia
Craig Thompson ’74 has supported the °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ community, as well as the wider Peoria area, in countless ways.

October 1, 2024
The Lydia Moss °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ award honors anyone from the °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ community for their significant service to the University.
°®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ is excited to announce Craig A. Thompson ’74 as the recipient of the 2024 Lydia Moss °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ Award. For over five decades Craig has exemplified the spirit of service, support, and leadership that aligns with the vision of our university founder, Lydia Moss °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ. His contributions to °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ include serving on the Alumni Board, Braves Club Board, and the Engineering & Industrial Technology Advisory Council. Alongside his wife, Ilean, he is a consistent Braves Scholarship Society donor, supporting °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ Athletics and numerous university initiatives.
Craig’s influence extends beyond campus into the greater Peoria area. He founded Thompson Electronics in 1980, growing it into a leader in commercial communications, A/V, security, and fire alarm systems. He has also been active in his industry, holding memberships in the Audio Engineering Society, National Fire Protection Association, and the Institute of Electronics and Electrical Engineers. His civic involvement includes serving on Peoria’s Chamber of Commerce and Symphony boards.
Craig’s enduring dedication to °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ and his community demonstrates the leadership and support that Braves are known for. His accomplishments and volunteerism reflect the values of °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ, making him the perfect recipient of this prestigious award. Join us in congratulating Craig Thompson for earning the 2024 Lydia Moss °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ Award!
Nominate someone for next year’s Lydia Moss °®¶¹´«Ã½ÊÓÆµ Award