Victoria Thomas

Victoria Thomas is a Teaching Professor in the Department of English at Washington University in St. Louis. She holds a PhD in English & American Literature from WashU, combining her expertise in law and literature. Previously, she practiced law in England as a barrister, focusing on public childcare and family law, which influenced legal reforms regarding local authority jurisdictions and fiduciary duties for children in care. She transitioned to academia while raising three children, merging her legal background with literary studies through her dissertation on Piers Plowman.

Her teaching emphasizes rhetoric, argumentation, and cultural identity. Courses include Writing and the Law, Argumentation, and participation in the Prison Education Project. She received the University College Faculty Teaching Award and served as commencement speaker, reflecting her commitment to pedagogy.

• Education: PhD in English & American Literature, Washington University
• Legal Background: Called to the Bar of England and Wales (1995), former Standing Counsel for county local authorities

Her research bridges legal authority and medieval literature, while her teaching focuses on empowering student voice through academic writing. Mentored students, including Truman Scholar Max Klapow, highlight her impact beyond the classroom.