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Thurman Adams

Delawareans at the Epicenter

Thurman Adams (circled) in the Varsity Basketball team photo from the 1950 yearbook.
Thurman Adams (circled) with 1950 University of Delaware Varsity Basketball Team

University of Delaware Archives and Records Management

Thurman Adams, Class of 1950, was born in Bridgeville, Delaware. He played basketball and lacrosse at Delaware, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education. In 1961, Adams was introduced to Delaware politics when Governor Elbert Carvel appointed him to the Delaware State Highway Safety Commission. Adams was elected to the Delaware State Senate in 1972, and served there until his death in 2009. During his 37 years as senator, Adams served as the Senate Majority Leader from 1999-2003 and as president pro tempore of the State Senate from 2003 until his death in 2009.