PRESIDENT CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY IRVINE
WHY: Named fifth president of the private, Lutheran institution. Took over for former President Kurt Krueger on Jan. 1. Spent 15 years at sister school Concordia University-Portland.
RECENT: University unveiled the Borland-Manske Center for music, worship, and theology last October. Thomas wants to leverage its push into STEM; build partnerships with area businesses. Has consolidated its health programs under the umbrella of a new School of Health and Human Sciences.
QUOTABLE: Plans to lead the institution “in the mission, vision, and values that has guaranteed students an excellent education, and an education known by name.”
2020 HOBBY: “I decided to formalize my knowledge of sailing by taking private sailing lessons that enable me to charter a sailboat anywhere in the world.”
