Katy Thoma

Katy Thoma, who completed her requirements for graduation in 1980, came back to campus in Spring 2013 as Executive Director of the Chico State Chico State Enterprises.

She began her career in banking at the downtown Chico branch of Bank of America in 1977. After finishing her course work she moved to Pullman, WA where she worked for Seafirst Bank. Katy returned to Chico in 1984 and furthered her career in banking by going to work for locally owned North State National Bank (later acquired by Tri Counties Bank).

In the 1993 she became the director of Chico’s Jesus Center(opens in new window), an organization that serves the needs of the poor. After working at the Jesus Center for 10 years, she returned to banking, serving as vice-president and branch manager for Butte Community Bank (later Rabobank) before coming to the Research Foundation. Katy’s experience in both the non-profit sector and the banking industry make her uniquely qualified to head the Research Foundation as much of what she oversees is operational and compliance in nature.

She also began serving as president of Chico Rotary(opens in new window) in the summer of 2013. Katy also served on the Planetree leadership team at Enloe Medical Center for 5 years, she currently serves on the Chico Police Foundation Board and volunteers at her church.

Inside Chico State Article
Katy Thoma: Research Foundation Is ‘Here to Serve’