14/09/2026
Professor Kevin “Kit” Thompson (1952-2026)
OBE; Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh; Légion d’honneur 2017 & Officier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres 2012; Honorary Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, 2022.
Moon Chun Memorial College, W11, University of Macau, announces the passing of Professor Kevin Thompson, former College Master. Professor Kit Thompson, as he was most fondly known to all who knew him, was a renowned British educator, musician.
The college celebrates and honours the extraordinary life of Professor Kit Thompson, a visionary leader, and pioneering educator who lived his life as a grand symphony—harmonizing the realms of education, arts, and global business communities across continents. From the historic music halls of the United Kingdom to the vibrant cultural hubs of Hong Kong and Macau, Professor Thompson left an indelible mark at every institution, as well as touching the lives of those he mentored.
In the fall of 2013, Prof. Thompson moved to Macau, where he took up office as the founding Master of Moon Chun Memorial College. He did not just simply build a college; he cultivated an inclusive community with strong British roots and traditions. He nurtured the minds and characters of young undergraduates, instilling in them a deep love for music, cultural arts, and an appetite for learning.
Kit Thompson’s influence, however, extended far beyond the university campus. He was a pillar of strength of the local business and commerce communities: bridging cultures and fostering international leadership. He served with impeccable distinction as President of the Macau European Chamber of Commerce (MECC) and the Vice Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce in Macao (BritCham Macao). His dedication to cross-cultural connection was recognized 2017, and he was appointed a Knight of the French National Order of the Legion of Honour for his outstanding contributions to French music, arts, and culture.
In 2023, Sino Phil Asia International Peace Awards Foundation recognized his lifelong devotion to youth development programmes in music and fine arts.Yet, for all his titles, accolades, and knighthoods, those who knew Kit will remember him most for his warmth, his sharp intellect, his boundless energy, and his unwavering belief in the power of the arts to elevate the human spirit. Professor Kit Thompson firmly believed that education was not merely about instruction, but about inspiration. Despite his passing, the music of his life continues to resonate here at the college, with the partnerships he forged, and the generations of students, musicians, and leaders he inspired.
May his melody play on in our hearts forever.
