Medina Environmental Consulting & Solutions

#WomensHistoryMonth: Amber Nicole Thomas is a community advocate, policy strategist and senior operations executive committed to advancing civil rights and social equity. A Jackson, Mississippi, native, she currently serves as senior vice president of operations, effectiveness and improvements at the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), where she strengthens the organization’s sustainability, project management and facilities operations to expand its impact. A proud Jackson Public Schools graduate, Thomas developed an early passion for amplifying marginalized voices. Her commitment to civic engagement led her to Jackson State University, where she earned bachelor’s degrees in political science and mass communications. While at JSU, she was an active leader in Student Government Association, The Blue and White Flash, NAACP, Essence of a Lady Tiger and the Blue, White and Green Recycling Committee, which she co-founded. Thomas’ passion for grassroots advocacy took shape during her time as the state of Mississippi's digital media lead for Obama for America, where she helped mobilize voters in a historic election cycle. She later joined the NAACP’s national civic engagement campaign, "This is My Vote!," leading voter registration efforts across Mississippi. Her leadership extended to public education reform as a field coordinator for the "Better Schools, Better Jobs" campaign, where she built statewide coalitions advocating for fully funded public education. Seeking to expand her expertise, Thomas earned a master’s degree in urban policy analysis and management from the Milano School of Policy, Management and Environment at The New School in New York City. While in New York City, she tackled bail reform, racial discrimination and criminal justice reform for girls in detention, leading to work with the New York City Commission on Human Rights on campaigns addressing racism and discrimination against Black people and Black hairstyles. Throughout her career, Thomas has remained a dedicated advocate, strategist and facilitator, leading national initiatives in public education, voter rights and labor advocacy. Her impact has been recognized through honors such as Fusion.net’s "30 Under 30" List (2016), Magic Johnson’s "32 Under 32" Playbook (2017) and being a USBC Power 50 Under 40 Honoree (2023). Most recently, she was featured in "Meet the Street," a series highlighting leaders within Alfred Street Baptist Church, where she actively serves. A lifelong learner and champion for equity, Thomas continues to shape policies and initiatives that empower underrepresented communities. She credits her family’s guidance and faith as the foundation of her leadership, recalling the words her parents often shared: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." #JSUAlums

Today is the first day of Women's History Month in the United States. ?? This year's theme is "Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations". The goal of the theme is to recognize women who have dedicated their lives to education, mentorship, and leadership. Who comes to mind when you hear this year's theme? Tag them in the comment section! ?? Let's not forget, March 1st is also Zero Discrimination Day, a global call to promote inclusion, compassion, peace and, most importantly, positive change. #WomensHistoryMonth #WomensHistory #ZeroDiscriminationDay