This week, we continue our series of articles highlighting the many faces of leadership throughout the CHSAA membership. Our hope is that by taking a small glimpse into the window of their leadership background, you will gain a greater understand of why they are such strong advocates for the vision and core values of the Colorado High School Activities Association
This week we talk with Brynn Thomas, Cherry Creek High School’s Assistant Athletic Director. Thomas is a University of Northern Colorado graduate who has been in education for the past 18 years, serving the last six as Assistant Athletic Director.
What has your journey in education consisted of? Did you start out in the classroom? What administrative positions led you to where you are? Did you come into education specifically for this role?
I began my journey as a Middle School PE teacher, then became a Middle School Dean. Next, I was a Dean at Cherry Creek High School and now an Administrator and Assistant Athletic Director at CCHS.
What do you love most about your current position?
Easy answer – the STUDENTS! When I left the classroom for Administration, I was so worried that I would distance myself from the opportunity to interact with students. Instead, I’ve made it a point to create these opportunities. Students know that my office is a safe place where they can study, heat up their lunch, grab a drink of water or a snack or sometimes just take a break.
What is a major challenge you have in this role?
The most challenging responsibility I have is overseeing the maintenance and scheduling of all facilities.
Cherry Creek High School was founded in 1955 and is an 82-acre campus, with 4 separate buildings, servicing over 3800 students. Although we have enjoyed our most recent renovation in 2022, much of our campus is aging and requires constant upkeep. We have wonderful building engineers that I’ve partnered with to keep Creek beautiful but it’s challenging for sure!
The nature of scheduling is challenging – You become a master of the details. We offer 29 athletic programs each with multiple levels and 75+ Activities/Clubs. So, scheduling after school activities is time consuming and requires constant communication with coaches and club sponsors.
We always talk about the importance of mentors. Can you tell us about your mentors?
My mentors are my parents, no doubt. They met in 6th grade and have been married for more than 50 years! They still live in the house I grew up in. I have two brothers who are both married with children. We all live within 5 miles of each other. My parents instilled hard work, loyalty, and strong family values in all of us.
Regarding my professional life, I have been lucky to be surrounded by wonderful coworkers here at Creek. Throughout my career they have each played a role in how I’ve developed as a leader. I wouldn’t be the leader I am today without their guidance and mentoring.
The road to success is not always straight. What are some of the curves you’ve experienced as you’ve worked to achieve your success?
Someone once told me, ‘Go slow to go fast.’ I made the mistake of responding to a situation too quickly. Take the time to let emotions settle, think about a professional response, and ask for other stakeholders’ input when appropriate.
What is the significance of women serving in your current position?
I love being a female Athletic Director. I’m very comfortable in a male dominated profession but the opportunity to bond with female Administrators/AD’s has been empowering. We are a strong group of women. I believe that we cheer for one another through the successes and lean on each other during challenging times. I cherish the moments I get to spend with the other Centennial League women Administrators/AD’s – they ROCK!
Is there a word of advice you would like to share with women working in this profession?
My advice is to be true to who you are. Women bring a different element to the profession, don’t try to be like ‘one of the guys.’ Be proud to bring that female perspective and own it.
How do you see yourself impacting the next generation of female leaders?
I want the next generation to say that when I was their leader, they liked who THEY were. That I brought out the best in them and made them feel valued. I hope that I impact the next generation to build up others.
Brynn is truly leading with a deep passion for student belonging and life-long success. We look forward to Brynn continuing to inspire the next generation of leaders at Cherry Creek High School.