Thomas previously served as assistant professor for finance and economics at La Sierra University. Thomas has worked for the University since 1987.

Thomas received an M.B.A. degree emphasizing marketing and management from Poona University in India in 1984 and a M.B.A. degree emphasizing finance from Loma Linda University, La Sierra campus in 1988. He also earned a M.A.P.E. from the Claremont Graduate University in political economy in 1998. Thomas is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program at The Claremont Graduate University with dual majors in political economy and finance and comparative politics.

During his time at La Sierra University, Thomas received the SBM Advisor of the Year in 1992, 1993, and 1994, the National Academic Advising Association's (NACADA) award for advising in 1993, and the School of Business and Management's Best Teacher Award in 1994. He was also presented with the Zapara Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1996.

In 1991, Thomas founded the La Sierra University chapter of Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), and has served as its faculty sponsor since that time. Based on their service and educational programs, the La Sierra University SIFE chapter won the SIFE International Championship in 1994, 1995, 1996, and 1997.

In 1998, Thomas was awarded the prestigious Leavey Award for Excellence in Private Enterprise Education from Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. Thomas received the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce Hero Award in 1996 and served as a president of the Arlington Rotary Club in Riverside. He currently is board chairman of the Family Service Association of Riverside.

Thomas replaces Dr. Henry Felder who served as Dean of the School of Business and Management for the past four years.

"We are thankful for what Dean Felder has done for the SBM during his term of office," said President Geraty, "and we now look forward to Dean Thomas' leadership in the School of Business and Management."

# # #