Darien Thomas

Program Manager

Darien is in the role of Program Manager on the Grassroots Health team. In this role she provides overall leadership and management of Grassroots Health programming, from school programming to parent/caregiver programs, health fairs (Grassroots Connect) and volunteer leadership and development. She is passionate about community empowerment through education, with over 9 years of experience in community health and education. Prior to joining Grassroots Health, Darien worked with students in grades K-12 within DCPS as well as in post secondary education, and has great experience in HIV and STI prevention and health promotion in communities. She previously served as the Community Educator at Columbia University’s Harlem Prevention center in NYC, and Director of Outreach and Education for AWPLI in PG County, Maryland.

She is a proud Howard University Alumna where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Health Education, and has continued her education and professional development by becoming a Certified Health Education Specialist, Community Health Worker, and completing a Public Health and Project Management certificate programs with Cornell University.

D Note got her nickname from her love of music. Though versed in many genres, 90’s R&B is one of her top faves. Not only does she enjoy vibing out to good tunes, if you’re lucky you might catch her singing along or playing an instrument too! She also loves reading a good book, enjoying good plant-based food, watching documentaries, and finding ways to stay active.