ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Oct. 24, 2013) — National PTA is proud to announce that President Otha Thornton has been named to EBONY magazine’s Power 100 list of the nation’s most influential African-Americans. Thornton will be featured in the December/January issue of EBONY, which will hit newsstands in early November. He also will be honored during the EBONY Power 100 Gala on November 4 at the Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. A prestigious recognition, the 2013 EBONY Power 100 list includes media mogul Oprah Winfrey, actress Kerry Washington, civil rights icon U.S. Rep. John Lewis and Marian Wright Edelman, founder of the Children’s Defense Fund.
“The EBONY Power 100 speaks volumes about the diversity of our accomplishments and the power of our collective influence across virtually every spectrum of society,” said EBONY Editor-in-Chief Amy DuBois Barnett. “We are thrilled to honor these exceptionally talented people who have inspired and enthralled us and who have helped to shape our lives.”
“The most recognized and respected source for perspective on the African-American community, we are elated that EBONY has chosen to honor our president and the important work of National PTA,” said Eric Hargis, executive director of National PTA. “This prestigious honor underscores President Thornton’s leadership and the difference he and National PTA are making in the lives of our country’s youth through the promotion of educational success, health and well-being, and strong family and community involvement.”
Thornton was installed as president of National PTA in June 2013, making history as the first African-American male chosen to head the 4 million member association. Under his leadership, National PTA has collaborated with prestigious organizations including the NFL and AARP. Since taking the helm, Thornton also has launched an awareness campaign to celebrate the achievements of diverse student populations and share resources and advocacy tools to help school communities address the unique needs of every child. In addition to being recognized by EBONY, Thornton recently was featured on NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams.
For more information visit EBONY’s Power 100 list.
About National PTA
National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of parent involvement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c) (3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.
About EBONY
EBONY is the No. 1 source for an authoritative perspective on the African-American community. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Amy D. Barnett, the monthly magazine, now in its 66th year, reaches nearly 11 million readers. EBONY features the best thinkers, trendsetters, hottest celebrities and next-generation leaders of Black America. EBONY ignites conversation, promotes empowerment and celebrates aspiration. Available nationwide on newsstands and the iPad, EBONY is the heart, the soul and the pulse of Black America. It’s more than a magazine, it’s a movement.