Thomas Adams, PhD is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Better Futures Minnesota, a social change enterprise that fuels and guides men's desire to turn their lives around and walk a new path toward better health and success. Better Futures Minnesota is intent on changing the debilitating, costly systems and practices that produce poor results and perpetuate the chaos and cycles of dependency experienced by high-risk men. Dr. Adams has over 21 years of experience in delivering a continuum of supportive services to marginalized populations living in disenfranchised communities and consults frequently on topics ranging from workforce development, social enterprise, criminal justice reform, social challenges, nonprofit administration, and leadership.
Prior to leading Better Futures Minnesota, Dr. Adams served most recently as CEO of African American Family Services, a community-based, culturally-specific behavioral health clinic serving the African American community of the Twin Cities. He also served as Executive Director of the Association of Minority Professions Schools, as Founder and Principal Partner of Next Level Consulting Group, as Vice President of Education, Employment and Youth Services with Summit Academy OIC, as Executive Director of Pillsbury Neighborhood Services, and as Program Director for the Bridge for Runaway Youth, among other roles. Additionally, Dr. Adams serves as Adjunct Faculty for Metro State University and Greenville College in Greenville, IL.
Dr. Adams earned his undergraduate degree from North Dakota State University, his master’s degree from Augsburg College, and his doctorate from Regent University. Dr. Adams has held numerous board and professional affiliations and currently sits on boards with Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, Hennepin Health, Monitors Foundation, Third Capital, and the Hennepin/ Carver County Workforce Investment Board. Dr. Adams also serves as the State Representative for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Dr. Adams was born and raised in St. Paul, MN and currently resides in the Twin Cities.