A Legacy of Impact
By Makenzee Spruiell | Photography by Kami Hunt
Dr. Michael “Mike” Owen has spent more than 40 years shaping lives as an OB-GYN in Lubbock, Texas. But his impact extends far beyond his medical career. His continued loyalty and support for the Texas Tech University System (TTU System) and dedication to students and faculty across its five institutions is profound and is equally matched by that of his wife, Loretta.
Together, the Owens have left an indelible mark on the TTU System. Their work with the Texas Tech Foundation, Inc. and generous contributions to the Chancellor’s Council reflect their deep commitment to the system’s mission. Starting their journey as students at Texas Tech University (TTU), with Mike also attending Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC), they marked the beginning of their life together and established the heart of their family’s legacy.
“We have made so many lasting friendships and connections throughout the years,” Mike said. “The Texas Tech University System has made a bigger impact on us than we could ever make on it.”
Born and raised in Abilene, Mike was the first in his family to attend college. The son of hard-working, humble parents, TTU was a natural choice for him. Its proximity to home meant he could visit frequently, staying connected to the family that shaped him. At the university, Mike’s path took a serendipitous turn when he met Loretta between classes in the Administration Building. Their bond, built on shared values and a mutual love for TTU, grew as they navigated their college years.
Mike earned his bachelor’s degree in 1970, becoming part of the second class to graduate after the institution was renamed from Texas Technological College to Texas Tech University. But just days before the scheduled commencement, a catastrophic tornado devastated Lubbock, forcing the cancellation of his graduation ceremony. Mike did not walk across the stage to receive his degree until 2000, 30 years later, when the university organized a special commencement ceremony, a move that further cemented his faith in the TTU System.
After graduation, Mike’s life took another turn when he was drafted into the U.S. Army on August 19, 1970. He served in the same unit as his father had during World War II, the First Cavalry, which gave him a deep sense of duty and connection to his family’s history. Mike’s time in the Army was a defining period in his life that helped him mature, giving him a sense of purpose.
When he was stationed in Germany, Loretta, who was still in Lubbock completing her degree, kept the home fires burning. Together, they faced the challenges of military life and long-distance love, further strengthening their relationship.
Loretta grew up in Wichita Falls. She longed for independence and was determined to leave her hometown for college. She didn’t know quite where until a choir trip brought her to Lubbock. She fell in love with the beauty and atmosphere of the campus and decided TTU was where she would pursue her bachelor’s degree in education.
Photo courtesy of the OwensShe finished her senior year while Mike was deployed, and they tied the knot just weeks after she graduated. Upon returning from overseas, Mike resumed his studies at TTU. He earned a master’s degree and eventually enrolled in medical school at TTUHSC, fulfilling a long-held dream.
The Owens’ ties to the TTU System strengthened as their family grew. Mike and Loretta watched with pride as all three of their children—Jeffrey, Julie and Jennifer—became Red Raiders. Jeff and Jennifer both received their bachelor’s and medical degrees from TTU and TTUHSC, respectively. Julie received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from TTUHSC.
These were not just places where Mike, Loretta and their children earned their degrees; the universities were a thread woven through the fabric of their family’s life. Mike and Loretta were both active in Greek life during their college years, a tradition that all three of their children upheld. Each child followed Mike’s footsteps, pursuing careers in the medical field and continuing the legacy of service that he began. Even their spouses share various connections with the TTU System.
The Owen family’s commitment is truly a multigenerational effort, and Mike and Loretta are hopeful the next generation—their grandchildren—will continue the tradition, furthering their legacy at the universities.
“It's really neat that it takes you a minute to sit down and count how many people in our family are affiliated with the TTU System and how many degrees there are,” Mike said.
Photo courtesy of the OwensMike’s personal contributions to the system have been significant. He received the Distinguished Alumni Award from TTUHSC’s School of Medicine, served as a valued member of the Texas Tech Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors, and was the first chairman of the TTUHSC Alumni Association. His dedication didn’t stop there; Mike also volunteered with TTU’s Military & Veteran Programs and was inducted into prestigious philanthropic groups like the Matador Society, all of which showcase his commitment to ensuring the TTU System continues to thrive and uphold its legacy of excellence.
One of Mike and Loretta’s most meaningful contributions has been to the Chancellor’s Council. This group fosters collaboration across the TTU System, supports students through scholarships and recognizes faculty through the Distinguished Teaching & Research Awards, the highest faculty honor in the system. For Mike, it’s not just about supporting one program or one department; it’s about ensuring the entire system thrives.
“People donate to specific places, such as the nursing school or the medical school, or directly to students, but the general universities need money, too,” Mike said. “If you designate all your donations to specific non-university-wide programs, then the universities have to get their funding from somewhere else. I want to help the entire TTU System, and that’s why I donate to the Chancellor’s Council.”
Loretta shares her husband’s passion for supporting the TTU System.
“I love that Mike and I are on the same page,” Loretta said. “We both have loyalty to the system. We love supporting Texas Tech University and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. The more we learn about what they’re doing, the more we love it. They’re really such amazing universities.”
Mike’s involvement with the Texas Tech Foundation, Inc. Board of Directors has only deepened Loretta’s appreciation for her alma mater. She is amazed by the growth she's witnessed through various campus tours and events across the system.
“We are very proud for people to know we are Red Raiders,” Loretta said. “The system and university leadership, the integrity of the faculty and students, the wholesomeness of the various institutions and students—we can’t get enough.”
For Mike, supporting the TTU System is also deeply personal. He believes in the power of education to transform lives and is acutely aware of the challenges that today’s students face. With the rising costs of tuition, many students are left wondering how they will afford to pursue their dreams. Mike feels a profound sense of duty to help.
“I want to make life better for somebody,” Mike said. “I believe in paying it forward. Kids today shouldn’t have to worry about the burden of paying bills or tuition. There are a lot of families—and a lot of smart kids —who just need a little help. If you’re not having to work so much outside of school, you can spend more time studying and bettering yourself.”
Mike and Loretta’s story proves that their legacy isn’t just about family ties or the thousands of lives he touched as a doctor; it’s about making a lasting impact, shaping the future and giving others the opportunity to thrive. It’s in the students who, thanks to their ongoing commitment, will now have a chance to fulfill their own dreams.