About Us
The Thornhill Rites of Passage Foundation, founded in 2016 by Attorney Wayne L. Thornhill and his wife Michelle, is rooted in their commitment to strategic parenting and raising their sons with purpose. Both graduates of the prestigious Harvard Kennedy School, they have used their advanced education, along with Wayne’s legal training and background at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), to shape the foundation’s mission and structure. The foundation was inspired by the year-long Rites of Passage experience they designed for their sons, which led to the creation of the HūMan Rites of Passage Program (HūROP) to foster growth and self-discovery in young people.
The Thornhill Rites of Passage Foundation is a reflection of the Thornhill family’s legacy and their commitment to giving back. Wayne leads the monthly sessions, while Michelle handles back-end support and works with volunteers. Their sons, Kwasi and Kwame, have also played key roles—Kwasi designed the foundation’s crest, which is patent-approved, and serves as an advisor, while Kwame participated in the CEO Forum and continues to mentor future cohorts. Additionally, the Thornhills have personally invested over $100,000 into the foundation, underscoring their deep belief in the program’s mission and their dedication to ensuring its sustainability and impact for future generations.
The Thornhill Rites of Passage Foundation embodies the family’s commitment to raising confident, informed, and socially conscious individuals, creating a lasting legacy of mentorship and empowerment.
Mission
Our mission is to empower young men of color to navigate the unique cultural challenges – social, economic, and developmental – to secure access to a future without limits.
Meet the Founders
Wayne and Michelle’s journey is one of resilience, love, and deep commitment to their family and faith. Their story, marked by unimaginable loss and subsequent joy, underscores their unwavering dedication to raising their children with purpose, passion, and a global perspective.
The naming ceremony of their sons, Kwame and Kwasi, is a profound reflection of their heritage and their values. The names are rich in cultural significance, symbolizing the wisdom and joy that their children bring into their lives, while honoring their family lineage. The names Kwame and Kwasi, derived from the Akan people of Ghana, connect the boys to their African roots, while the inclusion of Yoruba words and family names keeps their identity tied to both African traditions and their familial legacy.
Their commitment to raising global citizens is evident in their travels, exposure to different cultures, and tailored educational experiences. By exploring six continents and over 50 countries, Wayne and Michelle have instilled a broader worldview in their sons. The hybrid school program and the Rites of Passage initiative further demonstrate their commitment to nurturing their children’s individuality, intellectual curiosity, and personal growth.
The creation of the HūMan Rites of Passage Program is a natural evolution of this journey. The program’s focus on guiding young people through a year-long process of self-discovery and maturation speaks to the Thornhills’ dedication to preparing their sons for the challenges and responsibilities of adulthood, rooted in their heritage and the lessons learned through their own life experiences.
