Peter Thomas ’84

Dr. Peter Thomas is an epidemiologist and Sr Research Scientist at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta and a Commander with the US Public Health Service. In his current position, Peter provides epidemiologic and guidance in technical training to West African Countries via Field Epidemiology and Training Programs. These programs help health ministries build country capacity for response to outbreaks, as well as disease surveillance, investigation and control.

Throughout his career, Dr Thomas has served as a CDC Epidemic Intelligence (EIS) Officer in the Washington, led several national HIV testing projects in Atlanta, and been deployed to more than a dozen countries in response to various health threats including Polio, HIV, Ebola, malaria, and the Haiti earthquake. Fluent in French, Peter was posted overseas for several years in Benin and then Uganda with his family as the CDC Resident Advisor for the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI). Dr Thomas has authored many publications and scientific presentations

As a public health professional, much of Dr Thomas’ professional career has focused on addressing racial inequities that drive or accelerate health disparities among people of color. In his private life, Peter continues to work on civic and social groups and boards that mentor and support people from groups who are discriminated or are disadvantaged. As an African American from Atlanta, Peter is particularly conscious of the need to support and invest in the lives and needs of young black males in ways that help address their life challenges and empower them to realize their potential.

Dr. Peter Thomas, is also a longtime member of the global ultimate frisbee community, has competed on men’s and co-ed championship teams at the community, college, elite club, and grand master levels nationally and internationally as well. He is now a co-owner of the Atlanta Hustle, a professional ultimate team affiliated with The American Ultimate Disc League (AUDL).