Anita Thomas is currently completing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Old Dominion University with an anticipated graduation of May 2024. After graduation, Anita intends to gain further research experience to prepare for applying to Clinical/ Counseling Psychology programs.

Her research interests are to further understand the mechanisms through which racism increases the risk for exposure to Adverse Childhood Experiences and subsequent mental health disparities for Black Youth. Furthermore, Anita seeks to integrate a strength-based approach to this research by including culturally relevant protective factors (i.e., racial identity, racial socialization) and how these factors promote resilience and well-being in Black youth in the face of adversity. Anita is currently employed at a non-profit organization for underserved youth in the Greater Washington D.C. area.

In her leisure time, she finds fulfillment in spending time with her children and volunteering as a mentor for underserved youth.