James “Jim” Herbert (‘62), namesake of UT’s College of Agriculture, passed away earlier this week on March 16 at the age of 83. On Monday, UT announced his passing and praised his generosity.

Chancellor Donde Plowman noted in a press release the legacy Herbert left behind.

“He was generous with his time, his support and his leadership,” Plowman said. “He was an advocate for higher education and a role model for all Volunteers. In addition to his generous support for agriculture, he and Judi (Herbert) supported many parts of the university, including the College of Arts and Sciences.”

The UT alumnus, who graduated in 1962 with a degree in animal husbandry, went on to have a prolific career in agriculture.

Herbert’s donations to the school led to the College of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources being renamed as the Herbert College of Agriculture in dedication of him and his wife.

His wife Judith (Judi) Herbert (’63) graduated with an English degree and has worked with Herbert to support agricultural education and UT. The couple founded the Jim and Judi Herbert Excellence in Writing Endowment, and UT’s writing center is named in honor of Judi. She serves on the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Advisory Board.

The Herberts also support UT through the Herbert Scholars program, which gives students financial support to pursue summer learning opportunities outside of Knoxville.

With a passion for the future of biotechnology in agriculture, Herbert co-founded the company Neogen, an international food safety company. He has multiple honorary degrees, including one from UT in agriculture, and has been recognized by NASDAQ and USA Today for his work.

In the press release, UT Institute of Agriculture Senior Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President Keith Carver praised Herbert for his work in technology.

“We will miss his energy, tireless support of agriculture and friendly spirit,” Carver said.