Note:  Dr. Thor and her college have been profiled in such national media and major publications as the Chronicle of Higher Education, Inside Higher Education, the New York Times, University Business, Converge, National Crosstalk,  National Public Radio, and the Los Angeles Times. 

2008 “Excellence in Education,” Ronald McDonald House Charities

2007 “Distinguished Alumna Award,” California State University, Los Angeles College of Natural and Social Sciences

2007 “Pioneer Award,” Community College Baccalaureate Association

2006 ATHENA Award Nominee, Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce

2003 “Paul A. Elsner Excellence in Leadership Award,” The Chair Academy

2000 “Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction for CEO’s,” Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society

1998 “Pacesetter of the Year,” District VI, National Council on Marketing and Public Relations

1998 “Alumni Professor for the Day,” California State University, Los Angeles

1993 For “contributions and leadership in community college education,” American Association of Women in Community Colleges, Arizona Chapter

1992 For “outstanding contributions to the cause of improvement in community college leadership,” National Institute for Leadership Development

1990 For “outstanding contributions, 1986-90,” West Los Angeles College Foundation

1990 For “outstanding contributions and service on behalf of California’s community colleges,” California Association of Community Colleges

1989 "Outstanding Achievement Award", the Women's Business Network, Los Angeles   

1988 "Woman of the Year", Culver City Business & Professional Women

1988 For “exceptional leadership and community involvement and as a pioneer and role model for all women in higher education”, Santa Monica College Women’s Center

1987 "Alumni Medal of Honor" for outstanding professional and personal achievements, Pepperdine University

1987 Commendation for “distinguished career as a leader in the field of education”, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kenneth Hahn

1986 "Delores" Award for Outstanding Contribution to Education, Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology

1977  “Certificate of Achievement,” Soroptimist International of Los Angeles

1971 Class Valedictorian  (highest GPA) and Dean's List (all terms), Pepperdine University