Skip to main content
Parent University event information and two people.

Parent University

Being a parent can be challenging, and addressing day-to-day struggles around mental health can feel overwhelming. In The Defensive Line’s Parent University, the Thomas family shares their personal journey following the loss of their daughter, Ella, to suicide. Based on the evidence-informed D-LINES training, participants learn to recognize warning signs of a mental health crisis, engage in difficult conversations with youth and adults, and leave with a clear, informed plan of action.

After this webinar, participants will:

  • Increase confidence in recognizing warning signs of mental health distress and suicide risk.

  • Develop practical skills to initiate and navigate difficult conversations with youth and adults.

  • Learn how to respond effectively and connect loved ones to appropriate support and resources.

  • Gain tools to reduce stigma and foster open, supportive communication within their families.

  • Leave with a clear, actionable plan to support mental wellness at home and in their community.

Meet the Hosts" text on blurred background.

A woman with short hair is smiling for the camera.

Martha Thomas, Co-Founder and Chief Education Officer

Martha Thomas exudes warmth and welcome to everyone she meets. Her 30-plus years as an educator have proven invaluable to The Defensive Line where she serves as Chief Education Officer. Her insight of the realities of the classroom provides an understanding of what teachers are faced with every day. She left teaching in 2022 to work full-time with The Defensive Line where she continues to educate through our Suicide Prevention Workshops and D-LINES training.

Martha co-founded The Defensive Line to honor her daughter, Ella, and to bring a message of hope and help to other at-risk young people. She is a respected voice in the field of mental health, a popular podcast guest, an inspiring keynote speaker, and the true north of our organization.

Chris Thomas, Co-Founder and CEO of The Defensive Line 

Chris is a connector of people whose 30-plus years in corporate leadership at Procter & Gamble, Frito-Lay, and Alberto Culver were defined by a drive for excellence and an innate ability to build relationships. Known for his big laugh and ability to put people at ease with messages of positivity and hope, Chris now channels his energy into mental health advocacy, serving as TDL’s Chief Executive Officer, as a member of the Board of Directors for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and as a Faculty Member for the American Academy of Pediatrics’ ECHO Program. Alongside his wife Martha and son Solomon, he is a recipient of the 2019 AFSP Lifesaver Award.