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Office:

Chapel Hill, NC

Thomas Gooding

Associate Attorney

Thomas supports SELC’s work toward clean energy solutions, energy affordability, and energy justice in North and South Carolina. His focus primarily involves legal advocacy before state utilities commissions, where an SELC team is fighting for a just and equitable transition to clean energy in the Carolinas.  

Based in Chapel Hill, Thomas conducts legal research, writes comment letters, and assists with drafting briefs. He engages with clients and partners on issues concerning energy efficiency, affordability, and environmental justice. 

“For decades, SELC has been fighting to protect our region’s natural places and to ensure a healthy environment for all,” said Thomas, who grew up in High Point, North Carolina and lives in Durham. “I am honored to be a part of the SELC team in my home state.”  

Before joining SELC, Thomas gained valuable experience as a law student working with Georgetown University Law Center’s asylum law clinic, Earthjustice’s Community Partnerships Program, legal aid organizations in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., and the ACLU Capital Punishment Project. 

“I appreciate SELC’s dynamic approach—litigating high-impact cases, transforming public policy, and collaborating with local communities—to achieve place-based solutions to complex environmental challenges,” Thomas said. “I am inspired by my colleagues’ commitment to advancing environmental justice, protecting natural places, and tackling the causes and effects of climate change in North Carolina and throughout the South.” 

Thomas loves the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. “I have so many wonderful memories there—family trips to Grandfather Mountain, backpacking in the Nantahala National Forest, and sunrise hikes at Black Balsam Knob near Asheville,” he recalled. 

Previous experience 

  • J.D., Georgetown University Law Center  
  • B.A., University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, with highest distinction and highest honors; Morehead-Cain Scholar  
  • With SELC since 2023  
Southern Environmental Law Center

The mission of the Southern Environmental Law Center is to protect the basic right to clean air, clean water, and a livable climate; to preserve our region's natural treasures and rich biodiversity; and to provide a healthy environment for all.

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