Scott Thomas ’92, never tried to influence his daughter Shelby in her career choice.
“I never pushed them (he has three daughters) into any particular field,” said Thomas. “My wife and I exposed them to a variety of things growing up. The only thing I tried to relay was, whatever field they went into, it was important to contribute to the community and public service.”
Nevertheless, Thomas’s career had an impact on Shelby, who in May became the second generation in her family to graduate from the North Carolina Central University School of Law.
“My dad went there and had a good experience,” Shelby said.
So did Shelby. She took part in the family law clinic and, under the supervision of its clinical director, Professor Katrina Smith, J.D., helped people with divorce, child custody proceedings and child support issues.
“Her guidance in the clinic played a huge role in why I want to practice family law,” Shelby said.
Public service appears to be a tradition in the Thomas family. Shelby’s grandfather served as mayor of Vanceboro, as a state senator and on the North Carolina Board of Transportation. Her grandmother served on the Craven County Board of Education for 24 years.
On Aug. 1, Thomas will retire after 19 years as district attorney for Carteret, Craven and Pamlico counties. Previously he worked in private practice and served as a state representative and a state senator.
Shelby plans to continue the family tradition of helping others. She has a position lined up in the field of family law and is currently studying to take the bar exam in July.
“I knew I wanted to help people,” Shelby said. “(My father’s) dedication to public service and helping people any way he can made an impact on me. I hope to make a similar impact through my own work.”
Like Father, like Daughter: Two Generations of Law School Graduates
