Courtney Thomas
She/Her/Hers
Senior Associate
I am based in: Columbus, Georgia
My strengths are: Empathetic, resilient, welcoming, collaborative, attentive, receptive
I identify as: First-generation college student, ENFJ, Georgian
As a Senior Associate at NPAG, Courtney supports searches across a broad range of organizations focused on social justice and social equity. Courtney brings more than a decade of search expertise. Prior to joining NPAG, she was with the executive search firm Isaacson, Miller. Her search work at Isaacson, Miller centered on higher education, particularly in placing presidents of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and deans of business schools. She was also an inaugural member of Isaacson, Miller’s Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Team.
Courtney's dedication to the advocacy, access, and empowerment of people with disabilities is motivated by her personal experience of having a brother with autism. She previously served as a Development Officer for Institutional Giving at Perkins School for the Blind. She also interned with Easter Seals Massachusetts and the Institute for Human Centered Design and volunteered with the Association for Autism and Neurodiversity. Courtney also contributes to the Autism Hope Center, which offers resources and programming to enhance the lives of children and families affected by autism in her hometown of Columbus, Georgia.
Courtney earned a Master in Public Policy from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Georgia. Her favorite pastimes are creative writing and attending concerts.
More About Courtney
Is there a quote that inspires you? “Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage.” - Brené Brown
What lasting change do you want your work to have? I want to support compassionate and just individuals who are leading and growing purpose-driven organizations.
If you could give a 10-minute presentation on any subject, what would it be? The influence of Western R&B music on K-pop
What’s the number one priority for your lifetime? To be known for truly making others smile.