Robert “RB” Thompson

A Foundation Built Through Education and Athletics

Moline native Robert “RB” Thompson attended Moline Community College, now Black Hawk College, from 1958 to 1962.

During his time at the college, RB excelled both academically and athletically as a member of the basketball and baseball teams. He also contributed as a sports writer and editor for the college yearbook and newsletter. His athletic accomplishments later earned him induction into the Black Hawk College Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the 1958–59 men’s basketball team.

A Career Dedicated to Students and Athletics

From 1967 to 2005, RB taught mathematics at Woodstock High School, where he also served as an advisor to the Math Team and the Student Council.

His leadership extended throughout Illinois as well. He served for three years as an advisor on mathematics issues for the Illinois State Board of Education and later became president of both the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Northern Illinois Association of Teachers of Mathematics.

RB also built an outstanding legacy as a cross-country coach. Over 14 seasons, his teams compiled a remarkable 331-104-3 dual meet record, while dozens of athletes qualified for state competition.

In 1976, his girls' cross country team won an unofficial state championship and placed second nationally in the Track & Field News Postal Meet. RB also played an important role in helping establish girls' cross country as an official Illinois High School Association sport.

Service Beyond the Classroom

RB’s commitment to service extended far beyond education and athletics.

He served as a parks and recreation commissioner for 23 years and as a city council member for 18 years while also leading nonprofit and community organizations, including the McHenry County Peace & Friendship Festival and Court-Appointed Special Advocates of McHenry County.

Earlier in his life, RB served as a volunteer with the Peace Corps in Tanzania from 1965 to 1966. While teaching and coaching at Kilimanjaro Cooperative Secondary School for Boys, he coached basketball, field hockey, track and field, soccer, and volleyball.

During his time in Africa, RB achieved another personal milestone by reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro at 19,340 feet in August 1966.

Through education, coaching, leadership, and service, RB has spent a lifetime helping others reach their potential and strengthening the communities he has served.