Anita Thomas holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Old Dominion University (Class of 2024). Her research interests focus on understanding the mechanisms through which racism increases the risk for exposure to Adverse Childhood Experiences and subsequent mental health disparities for Black Youth. Furthermore, Anita seeks to integrate a strength-based approach to this research by including culturally relevant protective factors (i.e., racial identity, racial socialization) and how these factors promote resilience and well-being in Black youth in the face of adversity. She is currently employed at a nonprofit organization serving underserved youth in the Greater Washington D.C. area. In her leisure time, she finds fulfillment in spending time with her children, volunteering as a mentor for underserved youth, and weight lifting.