After a nationwide search, local nonprofit organization Associated Black Charities has selected Chrissy M. Thornton as its next president and chief executive officer.
Thornton will begin her new role in January 2023, after she steps down from her current position as executive director of The Myositis Association.
Associated Black Charities works throughout Maryland to eliminate barriers based on race and find solutions that create opportunities for Black residents to advance financially and build a stronger economy.
Thornton brings 20 years of experience as a nonprofit strategist, manager, fundraiser, event organizer, author, public speaker, and community leader.
As a former real estate investor and franchise owner, Thornton believes in entrepreneurship, economic development, and financial literacy as tools to close the racial wealth gap.
She has worked at the senior level for nonprofits such as Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, NAMI Maryland, and NAMI National.
Additionally, Thornton worked in the community for organizations such as ArtsCentric, The Carter Legacy Singers, and the Greater Baltimore County Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
With a master’s degree in business and a concentration in organizational management, Thornton has been successful in fundraising, donor and corporate relations, digital engagement, grant writing, and more.
The CEO search committee was led by Associated Black Charities Board Chair Tawana Bhagwat and was comprised of board members who worked with the recruiting firm HR Nonprofit to ensure an extensive search took place to find the best qualified candidate.
“The committee was impressed with Thornton’s commitment to economic equity and the strategies she put forward during the interview process for a strong future at ABC,” Bhagwat said. “We are excited about this opportunity to build upon the work ABC is so well known for.”
