Ron Thomas

Ron Thomas has always been a fervent, constant advocate for the rights of the African American and Latinx communities in Northeast Rochester. He is known for his innate leadership skills and passion for putting the needs of the community first; even at the sacrifice of his personal life.

As the former Executive Director of Baden Street Settlement, Mr. Thomas has served the residents of northeast Rochester for nearly three decades. He is known as a visionary and continuously knew how to meet the needs of the Baden Street Settlement residents, regardless of economic, social and political shifts.

Mr. Thomas is a political strategist who, along with the late and legendary Assemblyman David Gantt, has had tremendous impact on the political landscape of the Rochester community for all residents.  Mr. Thomas served in the Monroe County Legislature since 1983 and served as the Legislature President from 1986-1987. 

Mr. Thomas grew up in Alexandria, VA where he attended St. Emma Military Academy.  He graduated from Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautical Astronomical Engineering.  Ron is an avid golfer, a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.  He has been married to Elaine Thomas for over 40 years.

Affiliations:

Mr. Thomas has served on various standing committees of the Legislature:   Inter-governmental Relations, Public Safety, Human Services, and Child Protective Services.  He was Chairman of the Committee on Public Works and Vice-Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee.  Mr. Thomas has also served on various Boards of Directors including Monroe County Airport Authority, Preferred Care, PRIS2M, Monroe County Community Service Board, Genesee State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commission and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Culture Commission.