Kevin Thomas, Ed.D.
Vice President of Enrollment Services & Student Success
Division of Enrollment Services & Student Success
Email: kpthomas@uca.edu
Office: Wingo 213
Phone: 501-852-0272
Letter from the Vice President
Dr. Kevin P. Thomas serves as the Vice President for Enrollment Services & Student Success at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA). With a distinguished educational background, Kevin earned his Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from Western Kentucky University, where he focused on postsecondary education and explored university-wide student support programs through his dissertation. He also holds a Master of Science in Human Services, specializing in College Student Personnel, and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication and Public Relations, both from Murray State University.
A series of progressive leadership roles across several institutions marks Dr. Thomas’s career. Prior to his current role at UCA, he served as the Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management at UCA, Director of Retention & Student Success at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE), Director of the Academic Advising and Retention Center at Western Kentucky University (WKU), Assistant Director of Undergraduate Advising Practices at WKU, and Coordinator of Housing and Residence Life at WKU. Additionally, he has contributed as an Adjunct Graduate Faculty member at both SIUE and UCA.
Since joining UCA in July 2019, Dr. Thomas has made significant contributions to the university’s enrollment and student success efforts. Initially serving as the Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management, he was promoted to Vice President for Enrollment Services & Student Success in August 2023. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in launching the UCA Commitment program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing college access to students who might not have considered higher education an option. He also spearheaded the establishment of the Division of Enrollment Services & Student Success, centralizing essential services and enhancing both efficiency and effectiveness. Under his leadership, the division has experienced remarkable growth in enrollment and retention rates, a testament to his proactive, student-centered approach.
Dr. Thomas’s vision for his current role is deeply rooted in his dedication to student success. He is committed to enhancing access to higher education, supporting students’ transitions to college, and ensuring their success through graduation. His focus on expanding scholarship opportunities, engaging in comprehensive support services, and simplifying the college journey is designed to equip students with the necessary tools for academic and personal success. By continually refining these supports, Dr. Thomas aims to ensure that students not only persist in their studies but also thrive in their post-graduation careers.
Defining student success as the achievement of academic, personal, and career goals within a supportive and enriching environment, Dr. Thomas advocates for comprehensive advising, tutoring services, and tailored wraparound supports. His inspiration to work in Enrollment Services and Student Success stems from the dedication and expertise of his team at UCA, who are passionate about enhancing student lives and education. The collaborative synergy between faculty and the division further fuels his commitment, creating a supportive learning environment that profoundly impacts students’ growth.
Outside of his professional role, Dr. Thomas enjoys a variety of hobbies that provide him with personal enjoyment and balance. He is an avid fan of great television series, enjoys playing golf and video games, and loves discovering new brunch spots. He also has a unique hobby of collecting lapel pins from his travels and interactions with colleagues across the country. These hobbies not only reflect his appreciation for meaningful connections and experiences but also provide a glimpse into his personal life, fostering a sense of connection with the audience.
Looking ahead, Dr. Thomas envisions an exciting future for the Division of Enrollment Services and Student Success at UCA. He is committed to strengthening the UCA Commitment program and ensuring access for Arkansas high school graduates. He is also excited about enhancing comprehensive support tailored to individual student needs, fostering a more inclusive and supportive campus environment. His enthusiasm for the future of the division is sure to inspire excitement and confidence about the university’s future.
He encourages students to embrace the wealth of resources available at UCA. He advises them to engage with their academic coursework and faculty actively, utilize academic support services, and get involved in campus activities. Prioritizing well-being is also crucial, as balancing academics with mental and physical health is key to success. Dr. Thomas reminds students that their success at UCA is a journey taken together, supported by a thriving academic community dedicated to their achievement.