Laura Thomas

Pronouns: 

She/Her

Sonoma State Grad Year:

2011, 2012, 2019, 2020

Degree:

Liberal Studies, B.A.
Multiple Subject Teaching Credential 
Administrative Services Credential 
Educational Leadership, M.A. 

What is your current position and/or the industry you work in?

Elementary School Principal

What were your campus involvements at SSU?

I can still hear Mo Phillips at Freshman Orientation saying “There is always something to do at SSU!” That saying proved to be true. I was lucky to be involved in student leadership during my undergrad years. I was a Summer Orientation Leader welcoming incoming freshman students. During the academic year, I was a part of the Residential Life team and held a few positions including being a Co-op Leader (Sauvignon), Community Service Advisor (Sauvignon and Cabernet). While I was completing my multiple-subject teaching credential, I was a Residential Life Graduate Assistant.

How has Sonoma State made an impact in your life today?

My SSU story has many chapters. From arriving at SSU as an undeclared major, later joining the Hutchins program, earning my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, and later realizing that I was not done being a student. As a lifelong learner, I returned to Sonoma State to earn my Administrative Services Credential and Master's in Educational Leadership. The lessons learned and life experiences gained during my time at SSU are all a part of my Sonoma State story that I still carry with me today. SSU helped me to find my voice, helped me to learn how to advocate for myself, and most importantly helped me to define my passion for supporting elementary-aged students.

What advice would you give to a current student or recent graduate?

Never be afraid to take a risk, get involved, ask questions, and lean in and listen.