Introduction to Ambassador Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton

Ambassador Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton is a distinguished leader, humanitarian, and educator whose life is dedicated to empowering individuals across the globe. Her profound impact on mental health, education, and humanitarian efforts has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious iChange Nations™ “Standard of Excellence Award” named in her honor—a testament to her remarkable contributions to society. Her work inspires hope and a sense of possibility for a better future.

The Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton Standard of Excellence Award and Board

The Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton Standard of Excellence Award is a significant recognition established by iChange Nations™ to honor women and girls leading transformative change in their communities. This award, which is given annually, reflects Dr. Boone-Thornton’s enduring commitment to fostering leadership, excellence, and community service globally.

The board overseeing this award consists of some of the most anointed and professional female leaders in the United States, each bringing a wealth of experience and passion to the mission. These board members are:

  • Ms. Marrisa N. Thornton (Board Chair)

  • Dr. Katrina Maxwell

  • Dr. Dana Austin

  • Ms. Carletta Burche

These leaders serve in a voluntary capacity, dedicating their time and expertise to support the mission of the Standard of Excellence Award. Their purpose is multi-faceted, focusing on:

  • Defining Selection Criteria: Establishing the criteria for selecting awardees who embody the spirit of excellence and leadership that Dr. Boone-Thornton exemplifies.

  • Assessing Qualifications: Reviewing and evaluating the qualifications of women and girls from around the world who have been identified as potential recipients.

  • Supporting Global Initiatives: Promoting and advocating for the funding of domestic and international initiatives that focus on the physical and emotional well-being, shelter, and education of women and girls.

The board is committed to meeting three to four times a year, primarily through virtual meetings, to ensure the continuous progress of its mission. Their work directly reflects Dr. Boone-Thornton’s vision to uplift and support emerging leaders destined to make a global impact.

Dr. Boone-Thornton’s Honors and Recognitions

Dr. Boone-Thornton’s illustrious career is marked by numerous awards highlighting her dedication to public service, leadership, and humanitarian efforts. Among her many accolades are:

  • PASAP Distinguished Service Award (2024): This award recognizes her outstanding contributions to public service, particularly as a Representative for the City of Hampton on the Virginia Alcohol Commission Policy Board.

  • Public Service Award (2024): This award, which also recognizes her service on the Virginia Alcohol Commission Policy Board, underscores her commitment to community welfare and public safety.

  • Sojourner Truth Award: Awarded by the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, this honor acknowledges her dedication to social justice and empowerment.

  • Irma B. Thompson Leadership Award: Presented by the Alpha Beta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, this award celebrates her leadership and community involvement.

Professional and Humanitarian Impact

Dr. Boone-Thornton’s journey in education began at Saint Leo University, where she achieved tenured professor status and continued to expand through her roles at Regent University. As the Assistant Program Director for the Master’s in Human Services and Pastoral Counseling programs, she has shaped the futures of countless pastors, counselors, and therapists. Her educational achievements include a Doctorate in Educational Psychology from Regent University, an MS Ed in Urban Education Guidance and Counseling from Norfolk State University, and a bachelor’s in Social Work from Christopher Newport University.

A globally recognized speaker and author, Dr. Boone-Thornton is renowned for her mental health series, “Transforming Your Reality: Removing the Mask”; and her Unmasking Guru platform. Her work has profoundly impacted diverse groups, including women veterans and those experiencing homelessness, and has been featured in international forums from Nairobi to Madrid.

Her role as a World Civility Ambassador further amplifies her influence, as she collaborates with global leaders to promote peace, respect, and understanding. Her humanitarian efforts have been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the iChange Nations Astell Collins Generation Leader Award, the Builders in Action Legacy Award, and the Honorable Sydney Allicock Global Humanitarian Award.

A Life of Service

Dr. Boone-Thornton’s commitment to service is evident in her leadership roles, including her chairmanship of the Virginia Peninsula Alcohol Safety Program and Natasha House, where she has made significant contributions to the well-being of women and children experiencing homelessness. Her work reflects a deep commitment to enhancing societal well-being and fostering positive change, inspiring hope for a better future.

She also takes great pride in her family, drawing strength from her husband of over 35 years, Virgil, and their children, Courtney, Marrisa, and Virgil II. Her personal and professional life is a testament to her belief in the importance of family, community, and service.

Conclusion

Ambassador Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton is a visionary leader whose work continues to transform lives and communities worldwide. Through her dedication to excellence, her humanitarian efforts, and her leadership, she exemplifies the qualities of a true modern-day hero. The Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton Standard of Excellence Award serves as a lasting tribute to her legacy, ensuring that her mission to uplift and empower others will continue to inspire future generations.

Modern Day Hero Award Frequently Asked Questions

  • To be a modern-day hero is to recognize that every triumph and challenge is a gift from the divine, unfolding in the perfect timing of the Almighty. It is to pour one’s heart and soul into every endeavor, understanding that our true calling is to uplift and serve those around us. We serve a God of action who is our steadfast companion on this journey called life. With each step we take, He walks beside us, fortifying our resolve and paving the way for us. He opens doors to new possibilities while safeguarding us from harm. He provides shelter when we seek refuge and lifts us up when we are ready to soar. In essence, the true hero is none other than God, the unseen force behind every act of valor.

  • Dr. Boone-Thornton’s life mission is a testament to her dedication to empowering individuals worldwide. Her work transcends borders, touching lives from Regent University's classrooms to the international stages in Nairobi, Bali, and Madrid.

    Dr. Boone-Thornton’s commitment to uplifting others is evident through her role as a World Civility Ambassador, where she collaborates with leaders worldwide to foster a culture of respect and understanding. Her eloquence and passion as an award-winning international speaker and author have not gone unnoticed, garnering her prestigious accolades, including the iChangeNations Astell Collins Generation Leader Award and the Builders in Action Legacy Award. Her efforts in promoting peace were recognized with the International Peace Award in Nairobi, and her humanitarian endeavors earned her the Honorable Sydney Allicock Global Humanitarian Award, a testament to the high quality and exceptional impact of her contributions to mental health and well-being.

    Dr. Boone-Thornton’s remarkable contributions have been widely recognized across the United States. Her dedication to public service and leadership, exemplified by her receipt of the prestigious National Association of Negro Business Professional Women's Club Sojourner Truth Award and the Alpha Beta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Irma B. Thompson Leadership Award, both are testaments to her selfless dedication. In 2024, she was honored with the Citizenship Award for Outstanding Service by the Virginia PASAP, and she has served with distinction as the Representative for the City of Hampton on the Virginia Alcohol Commission Policy Board for two (3) year terms. Her commitment to service is further highlighted by her roles as the PASAP Distinguished Service awardee and the Public Service Award recipient in 2024.

    Dr. Boone-Thornton serves in various roles, each contributing to her profound impact on the lives of others. As the chair of the policy board for the Virginia Peninsula Alcohol Safety Program and as the chair of the Natasha House, she has made a profound impact on the lives of women and children experiencing homelessness. Her leadership has advanced the cause of economic insecurity, affordable housing, and physical and mental wellness, leaving an indelible mark on the community. Her work reflects a deep commitment to enhancing the well-being of society and fostering positive change, inspiring hope for a better future.

    Dr. Boone-Thornton’s literary contributions, particularly her acclaimed mental health series “Transforming Your Reality Removing the Mask,” have provided invaluable resources for those seeking to improve their emotional health. Her role as the Assistant Program Director for the Master’s in Human Services and Pastoral Counseling programs at Regent University showcases her leadership and expertise in shaping the futures of pastors, counselors, and therapists worldwide.

    Her journey in higher education began at Saint Leo University. It was marked by her achieving the status of a tenured professor and her international teaching experiences, where she shared her knowledge and experience as a human services professional. With over 25 years of experience in mental health and a distinguished career in education, Dr. Boone-Thornton stands as a beacon of knowledge and compassion.

    Dr. Boone-Thornton utilized skills acquired in higher education and leadership to develop a two-day Disaster Trauma pilot course for professional students at the International College of Peace in Nairobi, Kenya, and is collaborating with the college's administrators and faculty to develop Mental Health First Aid.

    Dr. Boone-Thornton’s innovative Unmasking Guru platform and her workshops have brought healing and understanding to diverse groups, including women veterans and those experiencing homelessness. Her voice has resonated through various media outlets, reaching a global audience and inspiring change.

    Dr. Boone-Thornton is most proud of her children, Courtney, Marrisa, and Virgil II, and her husband, Virgil, who has stood by her side and shared her journey for over 35 years.

    Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton is a visionary leader whose work continues to transform lives and communities around the world.

  • Children:

    As a World Civility Ambassador, I am dedicated to nurturing global citizenship and empathy. My goal is to unite children worldwide in the fight against poverty, homelessness, inadequate education, and healthcare. I am committed to empowering children in African villages by guaranteeing their right to quality education. Furthermore, I vow to bolster orphanages with essential resources and the care they merit. By joining forces, we can illuminate a path to a more hopeful future for these children and their communities.

    Women:

    As a dedicated World Civility Ambassador, I am unwavering in my commitment to nurturing the seeds of change. I resolve to ensure these seeds receive the sustenance they need to grow and prosper. I am resolute in my mission to empower women across Africa, the USA, and globally by championing gender equity and equality. My efforts will focus on uplifting the women at the forefront of this global movement.

    I am determined to bolster women-led businesses and entrepreneurship initiatives by providing access to essential training, resources, and philanthropists who can provide financial support. My advocacy will extend to legal reforms that safeguard women’s rights and offer protection against domestic violence. I am committed to fostering educational programs that enhance access to education for girls and women, thereby expanding their horizons.

    Furthermore, I will utilize industry resources to bring awareness to and help improve healthcare services for women, emphasizing maternal health, reproductive health, mental health, and HIV/AIDS prevention. By forging strategic partnerships with local organizations, governments, and international entities, I will support and help develop programs that meet the unique needs of women worldwide.

    I am also passionate about establishing mentorship programs that connect accomplished women with those aspiring to reach similar heights of success. Through these concerted actions, I am determined to contribute to a society where women are not only leaders but also realize their full potential as the extraordinary individuals they are meant to be.