​​Jakita O. Thomas is a Philpott Westpoint Stevens Associate Professor of Computer Science and Software Engineering at Auburn University in Auburn, AL. Dr. Thomas is also Director of the CUltuRally & SOcially Relevant (CURSOR) Computing Lab. Her research interests include exploring the development of computational algorithmic thinking, Intersectional Computing promoting access to healthcare information and services for under-served populations, improving reasoning using expert cases, scientific reasoning, complex cognitive skills learning, and computer-supported collaborative learning. She is also co-founder of Pharaoh’s Conclave, a tech startup that prepares youth for eSports careers.
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​​She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer & Information Science with a minor in Mathematics from Spelman College in 1999. In 2006, Dr. Thomas was conferred a Ph.D. in Computer Science with a specialization in the Learning Sciences and Technology from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, GA, where she was a Presidential Fellow, National Physical Science Consortium Fellow, tutor, mentor, and Research Assistant.
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​​Prior to her current position at Auburn University, Dr. Thomas was a member of the Computer & Information Science faculty at Spelman College (2010 – 2016. Dr. Thomas was also Research Staff Member in the Service Design and People and Practices groups at IBM Research – Almaden in San Jose, CA (2005 – 2010).
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​​Dr. Thomas is a recipient of the National Science Foundation’s Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Award (2012 – 2019). She is also a recipient of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) (2016).

What are you most proud of in your work or life?

I’m most proud to be a mother to three amazing children: Pharaoh (11), Vivian (10), and Erich (7).

What are your passions and hobbies?

​​I love singing, writing songs, playing the piano, and watching movies with my family.

Do you have a personal motto or other words to live by?

Do all you can, while you can, when you can.

Favorite snack food?

Kettle corn