Jihan A. Thomas

Jihan A. Thomas is an accomplished arts educator with extensive experience in community engagement, curriculum development, and multicultural programming. Currently serving as the Museum Education Division Director for the Pennsylvania Arts Education Association and a Virtual Art Instructor for the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute, Jihan supports BIPOC arts educators and provides distance learning opportunities. Jihan's role as an Art and Literacy Instructor at the Free Library of Philadelphia focuses on innovative programming for youth and families, while work at BuildaBridge International emphasizes trauma-informed art practices. Additional positions include Community Visual Art Instructor at BuildaBridge, Community Ceramic Art Instructor at The Clay Studio, and Gallery Art Educator at the African American Museum in Philadelphia. Jihan has contributed to educational programs at prestigious institutions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation, and holds a diverse educational background in painting, art history, and art education from multiple esteemed institutions.