To say attending Southwestern was a life-changing experience for Ajay Thomas ’94, P’27 is no exaggeration. The connections Thomas made—across disciplines, with others, and within himself—set him on the path to discovery. Today, as senior managing director and national head of public finance for FHN Financial, Thomas is grateful for the education and opportunities the University gave him.

“Southwestern forced me to step out of my comfort zone and seek out interests that would ignite my passions,” Thomas says. “I was able to explore all different subjects, and it made for a very deep and rewarding experience. It gave me the tools to really be a lifelong learner.”

Thomas put those tools to good use, later earning his law degree from The University of Texas at Austin School of Law and a master’s degree in public policy from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Throughout his journey, Thomas has prioritized giving back to his alma mater. He served on the Board of Visitors for eight years and is a current member of the Board of Trustees. Philanthropy also has been a priority; he has endowed a scholarship at Southwestern, and when he first learned about the renovation of Mood-Bridwell Hall, he quickly supported the project by taking the opportunity to name a faculty office in the historic building.

“As an alumnus, I feel like if you’re in the position to be able to donate your time, ideas, or resources to Southwestern, you absolutely should do so,” he says. “In the end, you’ll definitely get back more than you ever give because you’re making a difference in future lives.”