Kecia Thomas, a faculty member in the department of psychology since 1993, has been named to a newly created diversity position in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences.
Thomas, who also has served as interim director of the Institute for African-American Studies, has assumed the title of senior adviser to the dean for inclusion and diversity leadership.
“Kecia is one of the best and brightest in our college, and I’m delighted she has agreed to accept this important new challenge,” said Garnett S. Stokes, dean of the Franklin College. “Among her many duties will be to initiate and chair a task force on inclusion, to serve as liaison on diversity issues with a number of other UGA offices and provide leadership and support to the dean’s cabinet and Franklin College departments. We’re fortunate to have her in this role.”
Thomas likewise is eager for the work ahead.
“I am looking forward to this new challenge and the opportunity to positively impact the climate for diversity and inclusion for our faculty, staff and graduate students,” she said. “I appreciate the opportunity to use my scholarship and practice for the benefit of Franklin.
For the last several years I have helped other institutions of higher education and other workplaces to advance their diversity missions and goals,” she added. “It makes sense to use these talents for the benefit of my home institution as well.”
Thomas’ research focuses on understanding the psychology of workplace diversity, including both individual and organizational readiness and resistance to diversity.
Thomas will continue to be an active faculty member in psychology and the Institute for African-American Studies in addition to her new administrative duties in the Franklin College.
Her research also focuses on the workplace experiences of women, people of color and gay and lesbian workers.
