Trinity Remembers Trustee John Thornton ’87

​John Thornton ’87, a Trinity University trustee, alumnus, and visionary leader in entrepreneurship and nonprofit journalism, died March 29, 2025. He was 59. His unwavering dedication to public service and transformative contributions to journalism have left an indelible mark on both the Trinity community and the broader media landscape.

“John brought sharp insight and a creative spirit to the Board. He was a dedicated alumnus whose passion for Trinity was evident in every conversation,” said Ted Beneski P’11, P’14, chair of the Board of Trustees. “We are deeply grateful for his service, and we will miss his unwavering commitment to our mission.”

After graduating at the top of his class from Trinity in 1987, John embarked on a remarkable career that seamlessly blended his passions for venture capitalism and journalism. After graduating from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, Thornton joined Austin Ventures, which became the largest regional capital firm in the U.S. He founded the Texas Tribune in 2008, a pioneering nonprofit news organization committed to providing comprehensive coverage of Texas politics and policy. This endeavor set a new standard for nonprofit journalism and inspired similar initiatives nationwide. In 2018, John co-founded the American Journalism Project, further demonstrating his commitment to revitalizing local news ecosystems nationwide.

“John embodied the best characteristics of Trinity: intellectually curious, civically engaged, and relentlessly forward-looking,” said Vanessa B. Beasley, Ph.D., president of Trinity University. “I was honored when he agreed to serve as a trustee. His impact on entrepreneurship, journalism, and public discourse was profound.”

John's dedication to Trinity University remained steadfast throughout his life. He was serving his second term as a trustee, offering invaluable guidance and support to the institution that played a pivotal role in shaping his journey. In 2015, John was named a Distinguished Alumnus of Trinity, and in 2016 he spoke with the University about his passion for the University and all it meant to him and so many others. “One of the real prerequisites of leadership is to have tested yourself in situations where you weren’t sure what to do next,” he said. “When you come into something not knowing the answer, you have to stretch and take risks. And a Trinity education, by definition, is designed to assist in that.”

He is survived by his wife, Erin Thornton, and two stepsons, Wyatt Driscoll and Wade Driscoll. To honor John's life and legacy, an evening of toasts and reflections will be held April 9, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., on what would have been his 60th birthday. The gathering will take place at Brazos Hall, 204 E. 4th St., Austin, Texas. This event will serve as an opportunity for family, friends, and colleagues to celebrate the profound impact John had on all who knew him.​

“John Thornton's visionary leadership, compassionate spirit, and unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and truth have left an enduring legacy that will inspire generations of our students and alumni,” President Beasley added. “He will be deeply missed by the Trinity community and all who were fortunate to know him.”