News Article

Truly a product of the program, Adonis Thompson is now "at home" as a key staff member of the campus housing. Let’s Get to Know the man behind that voice.

Adonis Thompson

Place of birth?

Pine Bluff

Why did you choose A-State?

When I chose it as a student, it was due to Parice Tyler coming to a senior day at my high school and speaking about the school. She told me about the opportunities that I would have and a chance to expand on the skills I had for radio/tv production. She honestly could have sold ice water to a whale that day. I came to school on my own for an unofficial visit and fell in love with the school. As soon as I hit the campus I just felt like it was home. When I chose it for the next step in my career, it was an opportunity to give back to the school that helped develop me into the professional that I am.

What makes a good staff member?

Someone that truly cares about those they work for/with. They must have a true understanding of the mantra “it’s bigger than me” and has a passion for the work they do.

What makes for a good university?

Truly caring for the students and the community it serves. It must be willing to be progressive and strive to keep up with the changes in the student body and the needs of the area in which it is located. Having faculty and staff from top to bottom that work towards a common goal.

Your philosophy on working with students in seven words:

You need to always expect the unexpected

If you could have another job or career, what would it be and why?

I would probably still be doing video production. I truly enjoyed seeing my vision come across on screen. I especially enjoyed my work with athletics in making intros, hype videos, highlight reels and wished I would have done my season documentary.

What is the one thing you wish you could teach everyone about your office on campus?

We see our students (residents) as more than just dollar signs or “bodies in beds”. We want each student and parent to know that they are a priority to us and want their time on campus to be a great experience.

Before you retire I want to...

Be known as one of the top administrators on campus, by the work I have put in for the university. I would also like to see at least two to three more flourishing living-learning communities on campus that other institutions want to emulate.

In college, I was known for...

Being the quiet type that became a student leader through his actions.

Who was your favorite teacher (and why)?

In high school, it was Tammy James because she made class fun and truly cared about us as students. She became in inspiration of how being there for students could really impact their lives. In college it was Dr. John Bieneke, because he allowed us to learn in the way that was most productive for us, and his classes were never boring.

What music is playing in your car?

It depends on the day. It could be anything from old school R&B from the 70s to metal that gets me pumped for the gym. Also, like good hip-hop that makes me think to beat instrumentals that play like movie scores to daily life.

My favorite motion picture is...

The Program because it was a great look into college athletics and O Brother Where Art Thou, if you can’t enjoy that film, I’m not sure how I feel about you as person, just kidding…maybe

My favorite trip was...

Going to San Diego in college with student leaders to a NACA conference. I had an “in touch with God moment” and it put a lot in perspective.

Four people I’d take to coffee...

Malcolm X, Dr. Cornell West (heard him speak at A-State during grad school and would love to pick his brain), my grandfather on my dad’s side (who I never truly got to meet because he passed away while I was an infant), and a student who needs a mentor to talk to that I can help get on the right path.

The best advice I ever received was...

My father taught me to always treat a woman like a lady no matter what. This has been something that as truly been able to set me a part from others and prove that chivalry is not dead.

What is the one thing I’ve learned I’d tell my college self...

Spring semester of your first year can be a danger zone and take college serious every step of the way. Probably could have saved myself a lot of money in loans. Also, be assertive and find those scholarship opportunities.

My hobby is...

Playing video games (great stress reliever and keeps the kid in me happy), working out (helps fight off the effects of aging) and listening to music

My passion is...

My career, I truly put my heart into the work I do. I enjoy being able to make a difference in the lives of others.

My pro sports team is...

I’m more of a college sports fan, because I love the passion and pageantry of the game and fans. Howl Yes I’m a Red Wolves fan to the end!!!

My pet peeve is...

Being lied to when I know I’m being lied to, whining and immaturity/ignorance

My favorite meal is...

Practically anything my mom cooks. When I get to go home, I send request home for meals, because she is can throw down in the kitchen.

A perfect day is...

A smooth work day, a beautiful day outside enjoying the company or family and/or friends having a chance to be around people that truly care about me.

My spirit cartoon character is...

Hiei from Yu Yu Hakusho. His loyalty to his friends, strong resolve and attitude he has on his principles are something I truly liked about him. I usually like the characters that are misunderstood but prove to have a good heart.

E-book or hardback?

Hardback, it is good to be able to have something there to pass down.

Dinner or supper?

DINNER, I can’t stand the word supper just like I can’t stand the word moist.

I wish I could...

Have played college football. After some injuries that took me out the game, I’ve always encouraged the young men I come in contact with to cherish every moment of the time they have out there, but to also have a backup plan if things don’t work out.

Only my friends know I...

I plead the fifth on this one, but I would love to see what they would come up with, because I’m sure I would get a laugh out of it or it would spark some interesting debates.

My favorite sayings are...

“It is what it is” and “Do work”