Adaline Emerson Thompson (August 13, 1859 – January 14, 1951) was an American benefactor, and educational worker and reformer.

Adaline Eliza Emerson was born in Rockford, Illinois, August 13, 1859.

Believing that the true way to reach and help the poor in the large cities was through the intimate personal contact which comes from living among them, and further, that the only way to solve the sociological problems pressing so heavily upon us is through knowledge gained at first-hand by thinking men and women, she devoted her energy and enthusiasm into this home extension movement.

[2] Thompson's term as Wellesley College alumna trustee expired in June, 1914.

Until prevented by illness, Thompson was a constant attendant upon the meetings of the Board, making the journey of a 1,000 miles (1,600 km) from her home in Rockford, Illinois, generally twice and often three times a year.

She was keenly interested in all college problems and endeavored faithfully to interpret to the Board the views of her constituency.