Institute of Child Development (ICD) Director and Professor Kathleen Thomas, PhD, is a recipient of a University of Minnesota 2020-21 Award for Outstanding Contributions to Graduate and Professional Education. This honor is awarded to exceptional candidates nominated by colleges in their quest to identify excellence in graduate and professional education. 

Established in 1999, the award recognizes recipients for their excellence in instruction; involvement in students’ research, scholarship, and professional development; development of instructional programs; and advising and mentoring of students.

According to the awards announcement, “Kathleen Thomas has made outstanding contributions to graduate education in teaching, research, and service. She actively engages students in the learning process in both the classroom and laboratory and is recognized for her outstanding graduate mentorship. She has contributed to graduate program development and refinement at the department, college and all-university levels. Her advocacy on issues of graduate education exemplifies her abiding commitment to promoting and serving the needs of graduate students.”

By winning this award, Thomas is made a member of the Academy of Distinguished Teachers (ADT) and receives the title of Distinguished University Teaching Professor. Additionally, Thomas receives a $15,000 award and her name and image will be displayed on the University’s Scholars Walk. 

In addition to serving as director of ICD, Thomas directs the Cognitive Development and Neuroimaging Lab. Her research focuses on the development and neurobiological correlates of attention, learning, and memory functions during childhood and adolescence. She also served as ICD’s Director of Graduate Studies from Fall 2016 through June 2020.

The University is planning to hold an in-person award ceremony for Thomas during the fall semester. Further information will be announced when it becomes available.