David E. Thomas, Ed.D.

Dr. David Thomas is a passionate educational leader having nearly 20 years of progressively responsible experience in the K-12 and higher education sectors. His career has focused on creating and maintaining healthy, innovative, and rigorous educational environments with high expectations for all learners; creating equitable communities and educational options with and for the underserved; and fostering within others the skills, wisdom, and fortitude needed to become leaders of their own lives and communities. Dr. Thomas is enthusiastically committed to the mission of community colleges and their critical role as bedrocks of education and workforce in addressing some of the most pressing societal needs in our nation. He serves as a trustee for several organizations and has received numerous awards and honors for his work in addressing issues related to access, equity and diversity.

Dr. Thomas joined the Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) in 2010 as dean, Division of Access and Community Engagement. In 2015, he assumed the additional roles of associate vice president, strategic initiatives, and executive director for the college’s Institute for Community Engagement and Civic Leadership. He is also a graduate professor at Peirce College and Wilmington University. Prior to CCP, Dr. Thomas worked for Victory Schools Inc. as national director of school and student support services and for Temple University.

Dr. Thomas received his bachelor of science in secondary education, bachelor of science in theology, and master of science in counseling psychology from Cairn University. He holds an additional master of education in adult and organizational development from Temple University and his doctorate of education in organizational leadership and innovation from Wilmington University. Dr. Thomas also holds a certificate in conflict processes from Temple University.