Letitia Thomas
PhD
Assistant Dean for Diversity
Research Topics
STEM education; social justice; social problems; sociology of education, race & ethnic relations, social networks & social capital; qualitative research methods; social media
Education
- PhD, Sociology, University at Buffalo, 2006
- MS, Sociology, University at Buffalo
- MS, Educational Administration, University at Buffalo
- BS, Biological sciences, Rochester Institute of Technology
Professional Affiliations
Dr. Thomas is responsible for the support of students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines within UB's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, as well as the College of Arts and Sciences. She serves as a resource for grant writing and outreach programs, to provide greater paths to success for underrepresented student participation in STEM. She oversees National Science Foundation funded grants that seek to increase the number of underrepresented students pursuing STEM, by building a supportive network for STEM Scholars. In addition to her administrative duties, Dr. Thomas is committed to scholarship and teaching. Her research interests include STEM education, social justice, and qualitative research methods. She has taught courses in sociology including Race & Ethnic Relations, Social Problems, and Social Justice.
Dr. Thomas is a member of various professional organizations including the American Association of University Women, American Society for Engineering Education, and National Association of National Association of Multicultural Engineering Program Advocates.