Ann Thomas

Background

About Ann Thomas

I am an activist at heart. An inherent advocate for underrepresented communities. From a very young age, this built-in passion has steered me to serve as a “bridge” that closes oppressive gaps, fosters awareness and compassion, and cultivates mindsets for personal and systemic reform. I initially ventured into law with the intention of being a better advocate for social justice. Little did I know, the diversity and inclusion movement was beginning to buzz and I had a very important seat at the table. My first stint as an attorney was supporting non-profit organizations through legal and regulatory issues to better advance their mission. Pulled to make a bigger impact, I launched my own consultancy coaching professionals on implementing organization-wide D&I training and supporting BIPOC, women, and LGBTQ employee groups. This entrepreneurial experience added “business owner” to my already diverse roles as activist, organizer, and lawyer. Now, my zeal for making a difference is matched by a strong passion for steering business leaders to new levels of acceptance. As a DEI leader, I bring a unique, two-pronged approached. First working with individuals, I partner compassionately to share tools, deliver insights, and create opportunities for progress. But I do not stop there. I also work on debiasing entire systems and instilling new mindsets and stronger DEI planning. Through proven strategy and human element, I have fostered the establishment of diverse working cultures; increased employment and retention rates for underrepresented attorneys; and enhanced organizational brand. I strive to make this same impact as an advisor and member of several non-profit and industry boards by providing recommendations around DEI strategy and management of distinct diversity related issues. I pride myself in causing a ripple effect on people’s lives, whether building a culture-conscious business or being better members of society. I have made it my life’s work and personal mission to lessen experiences of rejection—to help people rise up and be the best they can be. I genuinely believe we can find common ground and embrace diversity of all kinds as a catalyst for real and lasting change—in the workplace and in the world.