At 60 years old, Dr. Traci Elizabeth Thomas, a seasoned figure in the venture capitalist landscape, has reached the pinnacle of her career. With over a decade of experience at the helm of NTT Management Group, Inc., headquartered in both San Francisco and Beverly Hills, Dr. Thomas has established herself as a formidable force in the industry.
Despite her wealth of experience, Dr. Thomas believes in the value of continuous learning. Her commitment to her clients—to provide the “5 C’s”: Capital, Credit, Cash, Corporations, and Character—drove her to seek further education. This pursuit led to an invitation from the Vice Provost of Harvard University in June 2021, where she began to extend her academic credentials. “The curriculum at Harvard is intense and challenging, yet the knowledge gained is unparalleled,” Dr. Thomas remarked. “The professors and instructors are phenomenal, and the innovative nature of the Fintech space encouraged us to think creatively and flexibly.”
However, navigating the finance, lending, and banking sectors often reveals the darker side of human nature, where unethical behavior can thrive. “Money attracts all kinds of personalities, including those with less than desirable traits,” Dr. Thomas noted. “In our line of work, it’s crucial to implement preventative measures against those with ill intentions.”
Fast forward to June 2025, Dr. Thomas has broadened her expertise further by collaborating with Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a renowned psychologist and author, to obtain a certification that merges financial instruments with the study of personality disorders. This endeavor underscores the importance of recognizing not just the material aspects of business but also the intangible values of sanity, self-esteem, and self-worth. “Understanding who you are making agreements with goes beyond the ‘money-mask’ people often wear,” Dr. Thomas emphasized.
The growing threat of unethical behavior in business practices has caught the attention of other influential figures in the industry. Rene’ Mullings Lewis from Montreal is praised for her remarkable work in identifying and labeling unethical business behaviors, setting a strict standard against malicious practices. Kimberly Turley, a content creator specializing in relationships, advocates for immediate action against toxic business environments, highlighting the need for decisive measures to ensure the success of transactions.
Dr. Thomas recognizes the significance of collaboration among professionals in the finance and business sectors. Shirley Carew, Vice President at PNC Bank, has been lauded for her transparent guidance, fostering trust and sustainable relationships among business stakeholders. “Financial habits are not just about profit; they are about establishing rapport and a healthy work culture,” Dr. Carew stated.
As the financial landscape continues to evolve, professionals like Dr. Thomas are crucial in leading ethical practices, protecting both assets and the human elements behind business interactions. The ongoing challenge of identifying personality disorders early in partnerships remains a critical focus, as the repercussions of toxic behaviors can be devastating.
In conclusion, as Dr. Thomas continues her journey through academia and personal development, she hopes to inspire others in the venture capital space to prioritize ethics, transparency, and the well-being of all parties involved. “True success isn’t just measured in financial gains; it’s also about maintaining integrity and protecting the invaluable aspects of our humanity,” she concluded.
