Dr. Gloria Thomas is an educator who has dedicated her talent to serving families and communities through interdisciplinary research, theory and practice. Her work is inspired by a love for children and teaching. She currently serves as the project manager for the GEAR UP Center for Engineering Diversity & Outreach (CEDO) Initiative; a program designed to offer under-represented minority and first generation students educational experiences that boost pre-college interest in STEM education and careers. Dr. Thomas is a former associate professor of education at Marygrove College, an adjunct faculty member and project coordinator for Spring Arbor University's Adult Studies Program, and a 4-H youth development specialist with North Carolina A&T State University Cooperative Extension Program. In addition to service and teaching, Dr. Thomas consults on best practices in K-12 outreach. She has presented and co-presented nationally at professional conferences on topics related to STEM outreach and college access. Among her most recent scholarly work are: "Invention Engine-Building GEAR UP STEM Scholars;" "Backward Design-Increasing Capacity & Student Outcomes;" and "A Parental Model for Supporting STEM Literacy for Parents of First Generation Students." Dr. Thomas earned a PhD and MA in education from the University of Minnesota and a BS in nutrition from Michigan State University. Her favorite moments in life include making little girl coffee for her granddaughters, drumming with her life-long girlfriends, and watching Masterpiece Theater.