Now three college degrees later, he plays an active role in the success of more than 15 agencies in Illinois and Missouri.
"Retiring from the U.S. Air Force after 20 years, I wanted to attend college and play a pivotal role in a social agency," said Thomas, the longtime IMPACT CIL volunteer.
While in the Air Force, Thomas obtained his undergraduate degree in general studies from University of Nebraska in 1968. Upon retirement in 1971, he entered Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's graduate program, where he earned his master's degree in sociology in 1973. In 1985, Thomas was awarded his doctorate in sociology from Saint Louis University.
Upon his retirement in 2002 from Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, he became the first recipient of the Professor Emeritus Award in the college's 32-year history.
Through each of his college experiences, Thomas has been either an adjunct professor or a full-time professor for more than 30 years.
"I wanted to influence the lives of students to help them become productive members of society, develop an understanding of their world, overcome differences among them and gain an appreciation of others," Thomas said.
Fifteen years ago, Thomas' wife, Rosemary, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Ever since then, Thomas has had a strong connection with IMPACT CIL in Alton, an agency that promotes pride and respect for people with disabilities by sharing the necessary tools to take control of their own lives.
"I have always felt the need to give back to the community. I have been blessed as an individual. I feel I have a responsibility to share with others, especially those with special needs," he said.
Thomas has served on IMPACT's Board of Directors for the last 10 years.
"Anyone can develop a disability in a matter of seconds. I remain active with this organization because I see the invaluable service it provides to those who would otherwise be deprived of normal lives," Thomas said.
"Since my wife became totally disabled many years ago, I am also fully aware of what a disability can do. It tends to change the lives of everyone involved. Without considerable assistance, we would have a very difficult time," Thomas said.
Thomas serves as either vice president or president of more than 15 organizations in Missouri and Illinois. He was co-founder and current president of North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice in 1998.
In February 2008, Thomas served as moderator of the Presbyterian Church's Synod of Mid-America, which consists of 500 churches in Illinois, Kansas and Missouri.
"This was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and one of which I am most proud," Thomas said.
Thomas is active in his church, John Knox Presbyterian Church in Florissant, Mo., where he has served and continues to serve in leadership positions. Thomas founded and has served as the president of the National Minority Caucus in Higher Education of the National Council of Higher Education for four years.
"My desire is that young people and adults come together and create understanding and overcome differences between them in the interest of their community and society," he said.
IMPACT CIL is one of the 42 agencies funded by the Southwest Illinois Division of the United Way of Greater St. Louis. United Way funding is allocated toward the agency's independent living program and prescription drug program, along with its interpreter services for deaf individuals.
# Source: TheTelegraph.com; article By JAKE MORRIS August 20, 2011
# For IMPACT CIL, Visit: http://www.impactcil.org/
#Read more: http://www.thetelegraph.com/articles/thomas-58001-years-college.html#ixzz1VZUs6qWA
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