David Thomas

Bio

David (Dave) Thomas is an experienced communication and education professional. He possesses expertise on subjects including disability history and civil rights, government and nonprofit systems, communication ethics, bioethics, and healthcare ethics, and more.

Professional Background

In addition to DU’s University College, he has taught a wide range of public speaking and communication theory courses at the University of Memphis, Indiana University, Arapahoe Community College, and Metropolitan State University – Denver.

For the past twelve years, Dave has worked as an Academic Counselor for the Learning Effectiveness Program, a nationally renowned support program for DU students with learning disabilities. Prior to this role, Dave served as DU’s inaugural Assistive Technology Specialist.

For eight years, Dave worked at JFK Partners, an organization affiliated with the Anschutz Medical Campus, where he engaged in research, curriculum design, and training on health promotion and employment for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Education

Dave earned his Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Communication Ethics (Communication Studies) from the University of Denver. His degree culminated in the successful defense of a dissertation entitled “Rhetorical Genealogy and the Ethics of Eugenics.”

Teaching Philosophy 

Dave’s career has spanned training, curriculum design, and consultation in various roles in higher education, as well as roles supporting persons with disabilities. Dave values his roles supporting others in their efforts to maximize their potential and enabling them to make contributions to the larger human community.