1964: Born in Chicago, IL. However, he was raised in Detriot, MI
1980: At the age of 16, Eric decided to drop out of school and was kicked out of his home after an aguement with his mother.
1981: Met a pastor who saw untapped potential. Through positive mentoring, Eric was able to obtain his GED and enrolled into Oakwood University. He chose this University because his girlfriend and now wife enrolled there.
While enrolled in college, Eric started a non profit called Break The Cycle I Dare You.
2001: Though it took 12 years, Eric's perserverence payed off when he earned is degree.
2005: Earned a Master's in K-12 Administration with an emphasis in Educational Leadership.
2015: Earned a PhD in Education Administration in 2015.
Check out some of Dr. Thomas' powerful speeches
"Dr. King is dead, Malcolm X is dead! I'm that new guy! I'm the new inspiration!"
If you have the time, read more about Dr. Thomas on his Wikipedia entry.