Eric Thomas (motivational speaker) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eric Thomas
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| Born |
Eric D. Thomas
September 3, 1970 |
| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | Oakwood University (B.A.) Michigan State University (M.A.) Michigan State University (Ph.D.) |
| Occupation | Motivational speaker; consultant; coach; author; minister |
Eric D. Thomas (born September 3, 1970) is an American motivational speaker. He is also an author, consultant, and minister. Many of his speeches are very popular on YouTube.
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Eric Thomas's Early Life
Eric Thomas was born in Chicago, Illinois. He grew up in Detroit, Michigan. After some disagreements, he left high school. For two years, he lived on the streets of Detroit without a home.
While homeless, a friend brought him to church. There, he met a pastor and evangelist team. They encouraged him to get his G.E.D. and go to college. He was invited to live with a church family. He also found jobs at McDonalds and Olive Garden.
Around this time, Eric met his future wife, De-De Mosley. They met at the Detroit Center Seventh-day Adventist Church. Later, they moved to Huntsville, Alabama. They both attended Oakwood University and got married while they were college students.
Eric worked hard for twelve years to earn his college degree. He graduated from Oakwood University in 2001. While in Huntsville, he also preached and started a program. This program helped young people who were facing challenges.
Eric Thomas's Career
Studying at Michigan State University
In 2003, Eric Thomas started working at Michigan State University (MSU). He also received a special scholarship to attend MSU. He worked towards his master's degree in school administration. His studies focused on leading in education.
At MSU, he helped students who needed extra support. He worked as an academic advisor for them. He also helped create a program called The Advantage. This program helped Black and Latino students who were at risk of struggling in their studies.
Eric also served as a senior pastor at A Place of Change Ministries in Lansing, Michigan. He earned his master's degree from MSU in 2005. Later, in 2015, he completed his PhD in Education Administration.
Becoming a Motivational Speaker
Eric Thomas has given many inspiring talks. He has spoken to college and professional athletes. His work has even been featured on Fox News.
Parts of his speeches have been used in music. For example, they can be heard on the song "Intro" by the group Disclosure. They also appear on the intro track "Wins and Losses" by rapper Meek Mill. In 2020, he worked with Disclosure again on their song "Energy."
