Retired after 45 years of college teaching in the areas of critical thinking, problem solving, and conflict resolution, Tom holds a PhD in Communication. His community service activities include designing fundraising for local projects (Flandrau State Park pool, Vogel Arena, School District 88), and leadership both local and statewide with human rights organizations. He has served as president of state and national academic organizations. He and his wife Judy have 9 children (7 adopted) and 12 grandchildren.