A Q&A with School of Journalism and Strategic Media’s Marti Thomas

Marti Thomas
Administrative Support Supervisor, School of Journalism and Strategic Media

In this conversation, Thomas talks about the satisfaction of a completed project, enjoying being a part of the U of A campus for the past 23 years, helping students resolve issues in order to succeed, how her role is similar to being a small business manager, and the pride and excitement she feels for being part of the School of Journalism and Strategic Media.

Q: Tell us a little about your role within the college. What excites you about this?

I function like a manager of a small business. I take the directions of my chair and vice chair, and try to accomplish the goals for our area.

I am naturally administrative, and like to check things off my “to do” list, so completing tasks is important to me.

I help process many projects for the school, and feel satisfied when everything goes smoothly. It’s nice to take the administrative load off of our chair and other faculty so they can focus on other things.

Q: How long have you been at Fulbright College? What have you enjoyed most about your time here?

I’ve been in Fulbright College about 16 years, and with the university for a total of 23 years.

I really love walking across campus and seeing familiar faces that I’ve worked with over the years. I’ve enjoyed interacting with students, faculty and staff across campus.

Q: What do you most hope your students remember from their classes and/or interactions with you?

I hope our students remember me for being helpful, accessible and knowledgeable for them to succeed.

After being here for nearly two decades, I am thankful that I usually know where to direct students to resolve their issues if I can’t solve them myself.

Q: What do you like to do during your time outside of the university?

I love spending time with my family. I love being able to do activity outside like working in my yard and taking walks.

Q: What’s up next on the horizon for you?

I would like to do some traveling in the future to visit museums and hiking trails in other states.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add or let readers know?

I’m very proud to work with wonderful people within the School of Journalism and Strategic Media.

We’ve been through a lot of changes and growth in the last year, and I’m grateful to be part of it.

Come see our newly remodeled space in Kimpel Hall. I think you’ll be proud of it, to0!