Thomas Higdon

Thomas Higdon is the Policy Officer for the Initiative where he is responsible for researching emerging policy issues that advance the Initiative’s focus areas while working with faculty and staff to develop and execute a policy agenda. Thomas joins the Initiative with nearly a quarter century experience in public policy and program management. 

Thomas received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from Eckerd College and his Juris Doctor from Tulane University. He also holds graduate certificates in Public Administration and Human Rights Law from Florida State University and American University, respectively. He is Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Association Executive (CAE), and member of Leadership Baltimore County.

Thomas is also a survivor of addiction and the war on drugs, with lived experience that includes homeless, food insecurity, and violent assault.

Thomas lives in rural Baltimore County with his fiancé and her son. When he is not advocating for public health policy, Thomas enjoys long-distance running and volunteering as a peer facilitator with SMART Recovery.