Herb Lum is a native of Lexa, Arkansas and came to Houston in 1946. His father, Tom Lum, was one of several Chinese immigrant businessmen who helped shape the future Chinese-American community in Houston. His mother. Louise, raised four sons while helping to run the family grocery store, which still exists today. Herb and his three brothers worked at the store while attending school. All four brothers earned degrees firm the University of Houston.
Herb graduated from UH in 1963 with a degree in Civil Engineering. He met his wife, Faye, during a visit to Hong Kong. A university graduate, Faye was a teacher in the elementary school system. They married in Hong Kong in 1966.
Herb has a long and distinguished career. He worked for the Texas Department of Highways and Public Transportation for 28 years. He then served the City of Houston as Chief Engineer in the Department of Public Works and Engineering for 9 years. In 1998, Herb was made Deputy Director of the Construction Division of Public Works and Engineering and was responsible for implementing and overseeing the construction of Capital Projects. He has been recognized by the Houston City Council and the Mayor's Office for his loyal and dedicated service. Herb remains active with his neighborhood civic association and several Professional Engineering organizations.
Herb and Faye are proud parents of two daughters: Lydia, who is a newspaper reporter and freelance writer, and Carolyn, an academic advisor at the University of Texas.