B.A.
University of Iowa
M.Ed.
Iowa State University
About
Thomas proudly grew up in the urban community of Gary, Indiana. Proudly identifies as strong advocate for pursuing higher education as a Mexican-American, first-generation college student, and Queer person of color. Thomas attended the University of Iowa and Iowa State University.
Thomas has worked over fifteen years in higher education to serve students from recruitment efforts to retention initiatives, so that students from all backgrounds feel included, create a sense of belonging, and persist to graduation and career success. Thomas has worked at Iowa State University, Grinnell College (Iowa), Southern Oregon University, University of Iowa, and Oregon Institute of Technology.
Thomas currently serves as Valparaiso University’s Assistant Dean of Students for Student Engagement. In this Student Life role, Thomas leads the Office of Student Engagement & Experiences (SEE), which empowers students to create meaningful connections, discover their purpose, and actively shape their Valpo experience. Through inclusive opportunities for involvement, leadership, service, and community building, SEE helps students develop the skills, relationships, and sense of belonging needed to lead and serve in a diverse world.
Thomas is also involved in teaching and learning at Valpo – a faculty member who teaches in the Valparaiso University Experience (VUE) first-year course program, and Leadership Development (LEAD) minor program.
Thomas is an avid explorer – whether traveling a new hiking trail by foot, snowshoeing to explore outdoor adventures, or leaning into new cuisine and stretching their taste buds as a ‘self proclaimed’ foodie blogger. Thomas enjoys exploring, dreaming, and discovering new innovative possibilities to support student success and student life engagement in higher education administration.
