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student to do so at Howard University, and arguably the first African American woman with such a distinction. The Bison Yearbook entry under her photograph contains the quotation, "What is more far-reaching than beauty?" -- Thomas's parting phrase to her colleagues. Thomas is cited as one of the founders of Kappa Mu Honorary Society, the forerunner to Phi Beta Kappa at Howard University. These two indicators provide insight to the person that the art world will come to hold in high regard. An article describing the graduation activities at Howard states that:

...Commencement at Howard University probably meant more to the Art Department this year than ever before. For the first time this department had a graduate, Miss Alma Thomas of 1530 15th Street, N.W., who received her B.S. in art last Friday. Miss Thomas made an exceptional record in her work showing much skill with the pen, brush, charcoal, and clay. Her mural design ... is considered an exceptionally fine piece of work. During the past year, Ms. Thomas was granted permission to copy in the Freer Art Gallery, being the first colored person given this privilege. Professor James V. Herring, who has charge of this department, has done exhibit commencement week many fine specimens of art works done by his pupils. Under the caption of pen and ink the work of W.E. Wyre, J.B. Lomack, and James A. Porter, stood out.... . The department also had on exhibit some fine specimens of modeling; the class is taught by Mrs. May Howard Jackson. Miss Alma Thomas's "Bust of a Little Girl" is exceptionally well executed.... 38

The Washington Tribune, commented:

The annual exhibition of the work of the art students of Howard University, under the able direction of Professor James Vernon Herring, S.B in Art, and Mrs. May Howard Jackson, instructor in sculpture and clay modeling, is by far the most interesting, complete, and in every way satisfying display ever held on the hilltop.