New London native James Thomas is the Director of Nursing, ED, ICU, PCU, and SWAT at Main Line Health, Riddle Hospital. He oversees the operations of the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit, and Progressive Care Unit, ensuring the delivery of exceptional patient care and achieving departmental goals.

“This includes supporting my local department Managers and leaders and ensuring organizational and hospital goals are achieved,” said Thomas. “What I enjoy the most about my role is the ability to mentor and develop others. This can involve mentoring my direct team, which consists of Managers and Assistant Managers, but it can also involve others looking to grow personally and professionally. Examples include Nurses pursuing an MSN who need preceptor-led leadership development hours or speaking at local nursing schools to students.”

Thomas, who had numerous jobs as a child, recalls his first as seasonally for a local Christmas Tree Farm when he was roughly 14 years old. Thomas graduated from Avon Grove High School and attended Temple University, where he completed his first two years of undergrad and pre-nursing requirements. He then transferred to Widener University, where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

“After that, I completed a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on Leadership in Health System Management (MSN) at Drexel University and then my Doctor of Nursing Practice with a focus in Leadership (DNP) at Wilmington University,” he said.

Thomas is also a Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) through the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing.

While Thomas has countless mentors who have helped him grow in his career, he does recall one exceptional experience he was a part of in 2018 that influenced him for the better: He was selected as a Fellow of Leadership Delaware Inc (LDI).

“During this year-long fellowship, we were exposed to countless leaders from varying industries who shared their personal stories of growth and leadership, and I can honestly say it was one of the most pivotal experiences of my working career,” said Thomas.
“Specifically, Terry Strine, who was one of the Founders of LDI, has been incredibly impactful and motivating. A specific example is that at the end of the year, each fellow was provided a polished rock with an inscription selected for each individual. My rock says, ‘Take that risk,’ and I have had it on my desk directly in front of my keyboard since receiving it 5+ years ago. It’s a constant reminder to take a chance and not to be overly cautious — but also not overly risky.”

Over the course of his career, Thomas identifies one of his proudest moments as obtaining his DNP.

“The growth and exposures I had during that journey were fantastic for not only my professional growth but also my personal growth,” he said.

As a parent to four young children, Thomas likes Talula’s Table for quick snacks and coffee.

“If we are feeling brave and want to take the whole group out, Victory Brewing is a family favorite,” he said. “For a night out with my wife, we are fans of Two Stones Pub.”

Thomas and the rest of the 2024 Class of VISTA Millennial Superstars will be honored at the Awards Reception & Celebration on Thursday, May 9 at Penn State Great Valley, Malvern.

Sponsors are still being sought. Click here to learn more about the various opportunities available to partner with VISTA Today as it celebrates Chester County’s next generation of leaders, or contact Steve Knickerbocker at steve.knickerbocker@acj.today or 484-437-2826.