Jas Thurmond

Jasmine “Jas” Thurmond is a native Chicagoan. Jas graduated from Concordia University in 2014 with a M.A. in Educational Leadership, and she is pursuing a M.A. at Chicago State University in English Language and Literature. Jas is passionate about social justice, especially within the sphere education. She believes that all children are entitled to and should receive an academically rigorous and culturally relevant education that will effectively prepare them for college or a career. Because of this passion, Jas continues to serve as an English/Reading Instructor, as well as in various other Educational Leadership roles.

Jas has facilitated and participated in a myriad of activities in Chicago’s LGBT community, including co-hosting G-Spot Radio Show, a weekly live talk radio show, where she interviewed guests such as Leela James, Marwan, Dr. Jackie Anderson, Natalie “The Floacist” Stewart, Laurinda D. Brown, and others. Jas was a founding board member of Chicago State University’s first Gay-Straight Alliance, Helping Others Regarding Orientation (H.E.R.O.); in addition, she received The Windy City Times’ 30 under 30 Award in 2008. Jas has worked with other non-profit organizations, as well, such as the K.L.E.O. Center, International Federation of Black Prides, and Betty Shabazz International Charter Schools to write and secure private, state, and federal grants. She looks forward to using her position on Affinity’s Board of Directors to affect change and provide assistance to all.