Director Phil Thomas is a fourth-generation Washingtonian who grew up in both Washington, DC and Lexington, KY. Director Thomas graduated from the University of Kentucky and has studied at the graduate level at American University. He taught Elementary School Physical Education for seven years and currently works for the DC government, having served as the Ward 3 Community Outreach and Relations Specialist (MOCRS) and Community Engagement Specialist at the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR).  Committed and specializing in engagement efforts, Phil has taken on several special assignments as a detailee – including in 2020 leading a team of workers in DPW’s SWEEP program, serving as a liaison to the District of Columbia Board of Elections and his current role as Program Manager for Mayor Bowser’s COVID-19 Community Corps. 

Director Thomas has deep roots in the community as he has previously served as a two-term ANC commissioner, secretary of the 2nd District Citizen Advisory Council, and is a former executive board member of the Palisades Citizens Association.