September 17, 2024
CLEVELAND, Ga. — Truett McConnell University is pleased to announce the addition of Sam Thomas as a faculty Lecturer in the School of Communication this Fall. Thomas brings a wealth of experience in public advocacy, political communication, and debate coaching to his new role at TMU.
Sam Thomas has been a valued member of the TMU community for several years, serving as the Debate Team coach. His recent completion of a Master’s degree in Strategic Communication from Arkansas State University marks another milestone in his academic and professional journey. In addition to his role at TMU, Thomas currently serves as the Chief of Staff to Georgia Rep. Todd Jones, Chair of the Committee on Technology and Innovation.
Thomas’s career has been marked by a dedication to public service and Christian engagement. As the former Director of Christian Engagement at Frontline Policy Council, he worked closely with churches to equip pastors and ministry leaders to disciple Biblical citizens. His efforts have contributed to the election of conservative Christians across Georgia, and he has been a speechwriter and communications consultant for numerous conservative elected officials.
“Sam Thomas is the perfect addition to our school of communication faculty. His expertise in digital media and online platforms is a perfect complement to my background in classical rhetoric and argumentation. Our students now have the best of the ancient arts of persuasion and the new digital tools needed to communicate in the online world that is unfolding before us. And Sam’s experience in the world of public advocacy is also a great advantage to our students who are preparing for careers in that field.” Dr. Barry McCarty, chair of the Truett McConnell School of Communication.
In the realm of debate, Thomas's expertise is well-recognized. Beyond his contributions at TMU, he has coached debate at Clark Atlanta University, where he was honored as the Georgia Parliamentary Debate Association Coach of the Year. This Fall, Thomas will begin teaching a new course at TMU in Public Advocacy, where his students will benefit from his extensive experience and passion for communication.
Reflecting on his new role, Thomas stated, “When I first set foot on campus, I never could've imagined the ways that TMU would impact my life and ministry. I'm excited to serve the Lord on this campus, and to invest my time and energy helping TMU forge the next generation of Georgia Baptist leaders."
