Jakita O. Thomas, Ph.D.​
Executive Director

Jakita is a Philpott Westpoint Stevens Distinguished Professor of Computer Science and Software Engineering at Auburn University where she directs the CUltuRally & SOcially Relevant (CURSOR) computing Lab. She is also co-founder of Pharaoh's Conclave (PCX), a company that prepares youth for esports careers. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Science (Spelman College) and was conferred a Ph.D. in Computer Science (Georgia Tech). Dr. Thomas is a recipient of the National Science Foundation's Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Award (2012-2019), as well as the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) (2016).