Russell embodies a multifaceted commitment to progressive theology, social justice advocacy, and familial love. With over three decades of dedicated service in the nonprofit sector, Russell's academic and practical endeavors reflect a deep-seated passion for uplifting marginalized communities and promoting equality.
Known affectionately as Elder Russell within his community and church denomination, his journey towards a theology centered on love and inclusivity began in 1990 upon joining the Unity Fellowship of Christ Church, Los Angeles (UFCC). Rooted in Unity's mission of "God Is Love and Love Is For Everyone," Russell embraces a theology of critical biblical engagement to challenge harmful interpretations that perpetuate discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals and marginalized groups.
Russell's commitment to social justice is further exemplified through his extensive involvement with the Minority AIDS Project, where he served as both a board member and former Chief Executive Officer. His compassionate support for those affected by HIV/AIDS, including personal engagement as a "buddy" during the pandemic's height, underscores his unwavering dedication to community well-being.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Russell's global perspective was cultivated through his participation in the renowned youth education touring group, Up With People. This formative experience, spanning multiple countries and fostering connections with diverse families, instilled in him a profound appreciation for cultural exchange and human connection.
As a mentor to youth navigating educational and personal challenges, Russell draws upon his rich background, including 25 years in the restaurant industry and two decades within the nonprofit sector. His academic pursuits, culminating in an MA in Organizational Management from Antioch University and an MA in Theological Studies from the Claremont School of Theology, reflect his commitment to lifelong learning and academic excellence.
Currently pursuing a doctorate in education from Antioch University, with a focus on Social Justice Leadership, Russell continues to expand his scholarly contributions to transformative education and community empowerment. In his leisure time, Russell finds profound joy in cherishing moments with his family and grandchildren, underscoring the importance of love and connection in all facets of life. As a beacon of compassion, wisdom, and academic rigor, Russell's legacy is a testament to the transformative power of love in action.
Antioch University Los Angeles, The Bridge Program
Within Academia and Spirituality, Russell Thornhill Leads Towards Liberation
The Seed Field podcast featuring Kathryn Pope and Russell Thornhill, The Bridge Program
Teaching Faculty
Undergraduate Studies
Co-Director
The Bridge Program
UGS Coordinator
Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential
- BA in Liberal Studies, Antioch University Los Angeles, 2013
- MA in Organizational Management, Antioch University Los Angeles, 2014
- MA in Religious Studies, Claremont School of Theology, 2018
- EdD in Educational & Professional Practice, Social Justice Leadership, Antioch University, 2025
Professor of Compassion | Social Justice Educator | Bridge Program Faculty
Russell's dedication to education and enlightenment resonates deeply within both the university campus and his church community. He aligns with the vision of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who reminded us, "The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”
As a Professor of Compassion, Russell approaches teaching as a sacred act of justice, healing, and transformation. His classrooms are communities of care, spaces where learners are not just seen for what they produce but for who they are as human beings. Here, students are invited to show up fully, with their stories, questions, and possibilities to share wisdom and knowledge. Russell teaches in both undergraduate and graduate programs at Antioch University Los Angeles, fostering intergenerational and interdisciplinary learning environments.
Guided by the empowering words of Gloria Anzaldúa, Russell's involvement in the Antioch University Bridge Program is rooted in the belief that every individual should embrace their identity without shame and reclaim their voice. Anzaldúa’s proclamation, “I will no longer be made to feel ashamed of existing. I will have my voice: Indian, Spanish, white. I will have my serpent’s tongue – my woman’s and poet’s voices. I will overcome the tradition of silence,” affirming the transformative mission of the Bridge Program and the educational spaces Russell co-creates.
His journey into higher education instruction and student mentoring began during his undergraduate years at Antioch University Los Angeles, where he served as a Teacher’s Assistant in the Bridge Program. His commitment to student development took root early, organizing homework labs for individualized support and designing future education planning tools to help students map their academic journeys.
In 2014, Russell stepped into the role of Site Director for the Long Beach, CA, cohort of the Bridge Program. Under his leadership, he launched an innovative “open house” model to introduce the program to underserved communities in South Los Angeles, the South Bay, and Long Beach. This vision laid the foundation for the national expansion of the Bridge Program via Zoom, making access to higher education even more equitable.
With over thirty years of service in the nonprofit sector as a community volunteer, program manager, and executive leader, Russell brings lived expertise into his classroom. His Master’s in Organizational Management supports his passion for teaching nonprofit leadership, ethics, and justice-based practice within the AULA community.
He is passionate about developing lifelong learners who think critically, act with integrity, and lead with compassion. Russell believes that proper education must cultivate both the mind and the soul. As Margaret J. Wheatley reminds us, “We can’t be creative if we refuse to be confused. Change always starts with confusion.” For Russell, the practice of compassionate teaching embraces that very paradox: to sit with discomfort, to listen with openness, and to guide learners into the wisdom of their becoming.
- A Scholarly Personal Narrative of an Urban Black Gay Father and Minister
- Critique of the Black Church, Religion, and Biblical Language for Inspiring and Empowering Black Gay Men Claremont School of Theology
- Life Time Achievement Award, Love Freedom Movement/Vision Church LA
- Los Angeles Black Elders Award, Supporting Black Gay, Lesbian, SGL, Bisexual, and Transgender Community
- Distinguished Alumnus Award, Claremont School of Theology
- Founder's Award, In The Meantime Men's Group
- Los Angeles Black Elders Award
- HSA 5113 Organizational Leadership and Governance
- MNM 5210: Development and Fundraising
- Applied Studies Seminar: Leadership (APS 3990)
- Social Enterprise (MGT 4600)
- Communication in the Workplace (MGT 3941/PSY 3941)
- Applied Studies Seminar: Culture in Professional and Community Contexts (APS/BUS 3990A) HSA 5113 Organizational Leadership and Governance
- Effective Fundraising for Nonprofits Workshop (INT-3941)
- Nonprofit Management (BUS 3200)
- Nonprofit Advancement (BUS 3390)
- Management in the Multicultural Workplace (BUS 3620)
- Applied Studies Seminar: Cultural Contexts (APS/BUS 3990A)