In her role, Rosemary is responsible for enrollment management, marketing and communications, oversight of the dean of student life, dining services, compliance, and special assignments from the president.
Education
- Ed.D. Educational Leadership, West Virginia University, Morgantown, W.Va.
- M.P.A., University of South Carolina, Columbia, S.C.
- B.A. Political Science, Clemson University, Clemson, S.C.
Experience
Thomas brings to D&E an extensive background in management and higher education.
In her role with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), headquartered in Washington, D.C., Thomas managed daily operations for the international women’s organization made up of nearly 100,000 members and 3,000 clubs. She also served as liaison to the executive committee and board of directors, coordinated federal advocacy efforts and public affairs agenda, and oversaw management of partnerships with national and international organizations, among other duties.
Prior to working with the GFWC, Thomas was vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the FSU Foundation at Frostburg State University in Frostburg, Md. There, she developed a new marketing and branding campaign and helped create an alumni center.
Thomas has held similar positions at colleges and universities in Florida, Maryland and West Virginia.
At Florida Gulf Coast University in Fort Myers, Fla., she served as vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the FGCU Foundation raising $10 million in six months. As vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the SU Foundation at Salisbury University in Salisbury, Md., Thomas raised $40 million for the capital campaign, integrated the marketing and branding effort and focused on sports information.
While serving as vice president for College Advancement and executive director of the GSC Foundation at Glenville State College in Glenville, W.Va., Thomas secured a gift for a new stadium with artificial turf, created the annual fund and established a public and private housing partnership.
Thomas started her career in higher education at Fairmont State (College) University in Fairmont, W.Va., where she held various positions – associate vice president for Institutional Advancement, assistant director of Institutional Advancement and director of alumni relations. There, she took the lead on campaign planning and scholarship programs, and created a Lifelong Learning program.
Activities
With a devotion to community service and volunteerism, Thomas serves as President of the Board of Directors for Community Care of West Virginia. She is the Director of American Legion Auxiliary West Virginia Rhododendron Girls State and serves on the Board of Incorporators. Her work with the American Cancer Society, Relay For Life and Cancer Action Network includes state, regional and national positions. A lifelong United Way volunteer, Thomas has maintained her commitment to her hometown as well as serving in all communities of residence. Most recently she co-chaired the successful inaugural campaign for the Tygart Valley United Way.
