Dr. Mikela Thomas (she/her) is the Director of Equity and Inclusion Initiatives for United Ways of California, where she leads strategic efforts to advance equity, strengthen organizational culture, and foster inclusive communities across the state. With more than 15 years of experience spanning K–12 education, nonprofit leadership, adult professional learning, and community advocacy, she is known for helping organizations build healthier, more connected, and more human-centered workplaces.

Dr. Mikela began her career in education, where she witnessed firsthand how equitable practices, belonging, and culturally responsive leadership can transform outcomes for students and communities. Since then, her work has expanded to include leadership development, organizational culture transformation, workplace climate assessment, facilitation, advocacy, and community engagement. She is passionate about helping leaders and organizations move from intention to impact by creating environments where people feel valued, heard, and empowered to thrive.

Guided by the belief that humanity can be uplifted through love, empathy, quality education, and equitable systems, Dr. Mikela has dedicated her life’s work to enriching lives, transforming hearts and minds, and inspiring others to be the change they wish to see in the world. Her leadership centers on compassion, curiosity, courage, and connection, with a strong focus on sustainable culture change and collective growth.

Dr. Mikela earned her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from National University in August 2025. She also serves as the 2nd Vice President of the North San Diego County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her contributions to education and community leadership have earned her several recognitions, including the 2025 Outstanding Educator Award from the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Incorporated—Delta Upsilon Chapter, and the 2025 NAACP Education Ambassador Award.

Outside of her professional work, Dr. Mikela is a proud wife and mother of three children—Michael (23), Mason (20), and Maliyah (16). She enjoys reading, scrapbooking and crafts, playing cards and board games with her family, and spending time with their beloved Cockapoo, Cocoa.