Dear Class of 2024,

Welcome to the start of what I hope will be a successful and fulfilling academic year for you. I am Associate Dean Antoinette Thomas, Director of the GradSTAR Program and the 3rd  year and transfer dean in the Office of African American Affairs (OAAA). I would like to take this opportunity to inform you of my role and how I might assist you in reaching your goals and capitalizing on your UVA experience.

As the 3rd dean, I can assist you in making academic decisions, inform you of helpful resources on Grounds and in our community, or provide a listening ear if you just want to talk. I can also help you find ways to manage your time so that you can find a balance of work and play. It’s all about working smarter not harder and having fun too. 

OAAA offers free tutoring services, and I can help you connect with the tutor you need. Just ask. We will also be offering a variety of informative sessions throughout the year.  I also will be hosting regularly scheduled lunches known as Tuesdays with Dean Thomas. Sign up to join me for conversation and a free meal.

I am here for you and ready to assist you in any way I can. My door is open. Reach out and come on in!

Sincerely,

Antoinette R. Thomas, Ph.D.
Associate Dean, Office of African-American Affairs
Director, GradSTAR Program
Professor, School of Education and Human Dev.