Philip S. Thomas Collection

Collection

Identifier: MG Nwk PThomas-(Offsite)

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection includes correspondence, flyers, invitations, programs, brochures, awards, certificates, clippings, articles, posters, education brochures and guides.

The collection is arranged in five Series, and each are arranged chronologically:

Series I: Biographical, 1971-2023
bulk: 1990-2009
Series I features materials that highlight Philip Thomas’ philanthropic contributions as well as awards, arts education involvement, sponsorships and partnerships and mentions in publications. This series includes materials that showcase his involvement with the Montclair State University Alumni Association, The New Jersey Black Issues Convention, the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the Newark Boys Chorus School.

Series II: NJPAC, 1990-2023
bulk: 1990-1999
Series II includes materials related to Philip Thomas’ role as VP of Arts Education at New Jersey Performing Arts Center. The series includes correspondence regarding donations, awards, partnerships and sponsorships, as well as testimonials that highlight Thomas’ impact on arts education and curriculum development. NJPAC publications and youth programs are also included in this series. Key NJPAC initiatives involving Philip Thomas include the "Passport to Culture" Performance Series, the "Kwanzaa Festival and Marketplace", the "Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration", "Jazz for Teens", "Summer Youth Performance Workshops", and the Jubilation Choir.

Series III: Newark Symphony Hall, 1981-2021
bulk: 1981-1984
Series III includes documents and clippings related to Philip Thomas’ role as Director of Marketing and Executive Director of Newark Symphony Hall. The series includes commendatory letters highlighting his impactful efforts in enhancing publicity for Newark Symphony Hall events. The series also includes programs and flyers for performances and conferences.

Series IV: Carter G. Woodson Foundation, 1990-1996
bulk: 1987-2008
Series IV includes materials related to the Carter G. Woodson Foundation founded by Philip Thomas. This series includes Board of Director’s Manuals and Plans. Key Carter G. Woodson initiatives include "Artists In The Schools" Program, "Black Culture on Tour in America", and the "On Stage in New Jersey" Performance Series.

Series V: Wofabe African Drum Program, 1995-2004
bulk: 2010-2016
Series V includes materials related to the Wofabe African Dance and Drum Program. This includes programs, flyers and recordings of performances of the Wofabe Dance and Drums Festival.

Dates

1971 - 2023
Majority of material found within 1990 - 1998

Creator

Thomas, Philip S. (Person)

Conditions Governing Use

Researchers wishing to publish, reproduce, or reprint materials from this collection must obtain permission.

Biographical / Historical

Virginia native Philip S. Thomas (1946- ) dedicated his career toward arts culture and youth education in New Jersey. He was recognized as a leader in the development and implementation of performing arts presentations, theatrical events, and community-based arts education programing. In 1950, Thomas’ family relocated from Virginia to Paterson New Jersey. Thomas lived in Paterson until he moved to Newark in 1982. He would reside in Newark for the next 19 years. Thomas was drafted in 1965, and served in the Vietnam War for two years as a Squad Leader and Tank Commander. He earned a Purple Heart and two Bronze stars for his service. Thomas discovered his passion for the preforming arts while attending Montclair State University where he earned a BA in Theater in 1977. Later that year he co-founded the Greater Paterson Arts Council, a local non-profit arts organization, with his colleague Dr. L. Howard Fox. In 1980 he founded the Urban Arts Program and the Arts Development Services Program for the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. He went on to join Newark Symphony Hall as Director of Marketing in 1982, and in 1984 he worked with the Newark Public Schools as a Grants Analyst. In 1985 he founded the Carter G. Woodson Foundation, which was Newark based non-profit, multi-disciplinary, arts organization promoting black performance opportunities and education. Throughout his 7-year tenure with the organization, Thomas implemented notable programs such as “OnStage in New Jersey” and “Black Culture on Tour in America”. From 1992 through 2005 he served as the Vice President of Arts Education at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. In 2006 Thomas co-founded the Wofabe African Drum Program, with Karen Love and Christine Smith. His relationship with the UMOJA Dance Company paved the way for this collaboration. In 2007, he returned to Newark Symphony Hall, serving as their Executive Director until his retirement in 2012. In 2012 he relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina where he continued his service to the arts and education by volunteering at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. In 2017 he earned his MA in Arts Administration from Winthrop University and continues to volunteer with the Arts and Science Council of Mecklenburg County.

Extent

3.128 Linear Feet (8 Boxes (7 Hollinger, 1 Half Hollinger)) : Offsite

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

This collection contains materials related to Philip Thomas’ involvement in Newark performing arts, including his leadership positions and partnerships with various organizations including the Wofabe African Drum Program, The Carter G. Woodson Foundation, Newark Symphony Hall and New Jersey Performing Arts Center.