Loyola University Chicago

University Staff Council

April 2019

James C. Thomas, M.S.Ed.

Title/s:  Assistant Director

Email: jthomas39@luc.edu

About

Department/School/Division: Student Diversity & Multicultural Affairs
Campus: Lake Shore Campus 
Years at Loyola: Approaching 2 years

What is your favorite thing about working at Loyola?
Honestly, the students. I'm privileged in that I'm able to join students, a lot of the time that share salient identities with me, on their journey and assist them in their development towards being the best version of themselves. 

What is your most memorable achievement as a Loyola employee?
Towards the completion of my first year, an initially reluctant student I had been working with closely throughout the year came up to me at a banquet and said "I never knew I needed this [Brothers for Excellence], until I had it" before hugging me. This moment was a huge affirmation that I had found purpose in this field.  

What does Loyola's mission mean to you?
Loyola's mission is a call to action in the form of radically transformative leadership in supporting all members in our community and beyond. If we aren't focusing on the needs of our siblings most on the margins, we are missing the mark on Loyola's radical mission. 

What motivates you to succeed each and every day?
My driving motivation is remembering there are still systems and practices in place which operate off of the disenfranchisement and oppression of others. Until the deconstruction and decolonization of these take place, I/we have more work to do. 

Tell us how you show your Rambler pride.
I show my Rambler pride by building community for any and all folx that enter our space of SDMA. As SDMA is a home away from home for some of our Ramblers, it's key to ensure they have spaces for them, physically and programmatically, to assist them on their journey to "set the world on fire"!

Tell us something most people at Loyola would be surprised to know about you.
Growing up, I secretly always wanted to be a cook. Thus, upon retirement (which is a long time away), I would like to open my own southern style (with a flare)restaurant and food truck.