Steven L. Thomas

2022-23 Aspen Rising Presidents Fellow
Dr. Steven L. Thomas is an educator with over 27 years of teaching and leadership experience in both K-12 and postsecondary education. His professional career includes successful experiences as a K-12 teacher, researcher, policy analyst, faculty member and higher education leader.

Thomas serves as the vice president for instruction at Peninsula College in Port Angeles, Washington. He realigned instructional support services to create the Center for Equity, Teaching, and Learning. He has negotiated in partnership with the faculty association structured release time that allows faculty to engage in professional development, while also maximizing the efficient use of our fiscal and human resource.

Thomas aspires to add value to an organization through his commitment and ability to build relationships, identify talent and develop people. He is a relationship-oriented leader with an open and collaborative leadership style. Dr. Thomas believes that he has been fortunate to develop Bachelor of Applied Science degrees, online programs and influence policies and practices that provided more access, support, and eliminated barriers to student success, but he could not have achieved these accomplishments without working in partnership with talented managers and leaders who also believe in the community college ideal. An ideal focused on providing access to those in the community facing the greatest challenges.