Deborah Thomas

Dedicated to nurturing talent in the field of geography, Deborah Thomas serves as a professor and chair of the Department of Geography and Earth Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. With a profound commitment to advancing the understanding of hazards and health geography, she brings over two decades of experience in applying geographic information science and technology (GIS&T) to a variety of social science disciplines, including health and disaster management. Professor Thomas has made significant contributions to the academic community through her extensive publications, which explore the intersections of geography, health, and societal vulnerabilities. Her scholarly work is widely recognized, and she is the co-editor of the influential book "Social Vulnerability," which delves into the complexities of how different populations are affected by environmental and social challenges. Her academic journey has been enriched by international collaborations and experiences. As a Fulbright Scholar, she spent time at the Middle East Technical University in Ankara, Turkey, where she engaged in cross-cultural research and teaching. This experience broadened her perspective and informed her subsequent work in global health and disaster resilience. In addition to her work in Turkey, Professor Thomas has collaborated with the Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences in Mwanza, Tanzania. This partnership has allowed her to apply her expertise in GIS&T to address pressing health issues in East Africa, further demonstrating her commitment to using geographic science for the betterment of communities worldwide. At the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, she is dedicated to fostering an environment of academic excellence and innovation. Her leadership in the department is marked by a focus on interdisciplinary research and the integration of cutting-edge technology in geographic studies. Through her mentorship and guidance, she inspires students and colleagues alike to explore the transformative potential of geography in addressing contemporary global challenges.