Robert Thomas, '50

Robert N. Thomas is honored as a 2007 distinguished alumnus for his achievements in academia, his contributions as an educator, his service as a mentor, and his authoritative knowledge of population geography and tourism in Latin America.  Dr. Thomas earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography and Social Science Education from IUP in 1950 and was a member of Alpha Omega Gamma, the Geography Department honor society.  He continued his education while teaching and earned a Master of Arts degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1958.  He returned to IUP as a professor of geography in 1960 and taught until 1969.  Dr. Thomas earned his Ph.D. in Geography from Pennsylvania State University in 1968.  Currently, Dr. Thomas teaches at MSU as emeritus professor of geography and serves the Office of Study Abroad by directing and accompanying students on international field experiences.