Lasting Impact

Dame S. Hamby made a lasting mark on NC State's Wilson College of Textiles through the lives he touched — and touches — as a member of the Pack. He came to NC State as a professor in 1948 and later served as dean of the Wilson College of Textiles from 1981 to 1987.

Hamby was active in a number of domestic and international professional associations, served as a consultant in textile operations the world over and was instrumental in the design and construction of the first mills to process Egyptian cotton. Most importantly, he was a tireless supporter of NC State and its students during his career and after.

After Hamby passed away in 2016, the Wilson College of Textiles received funds from his estate for the Dame and Estelle Hamby Textile Scholarship Endowment, which he and his wife, Estelle, established in 1987 to provide scholarships for Textiles students who demonstrate financial need. To date, 19 students have received aid from the endowment, enabling them to pursue their interests in textiles with the same passion and dedication that Hamby did.

"The Hambys' decision to continue impacting our college even after their passing reflects the importance they placed on it and its mission," said David Hinks, dean of the Wilson College of Textiles. "Dr. Hamby dedicated much of his life to helping NC State's students think and do the extraordinary. Through planned giving, he still can."