Topaz Thornton, M.Ed.
Topaz Thornton, M.Ed., is a dynamic educational leader, pastor, and consultant based in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. She currently serves as the Assimilation & Connections Pastor and Director at The Potter's House of Fort Worth, where she curates engagement opportunities, mentors parishioners on spiritual gifting and life purpose, and supports new members and converts through one-on-one guidance, teaching, and preaching. In addition to her ministry work, she is the CEO of The Window Seat Global, LLC, and an Educational Leadership Consultant at Minted Minds Educational Consulting, bridging education, leadership, and global development initiatives.
With 27 years of experience in K–12 education across Dallas ISD and Fort Worth ISD, Topaz has held roles including teacher, academic coordinator, dean of students, and assistant principal. Throughout her career, she has been committed to coaching and mentoring both students and educators, designing programs to support student success, and leading community partnerships that enhance educational opportunities beyond the classroom. Her expertise spans English as a Second Language (ESL), gifted and talented education, curriculum development, leadership training, and cultural competence.
Topaz holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Educational Leadership and Administration and Principal Certification from The University of Texas at Arlington, and she is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Leadership in the Global Marketplace, focusing on culturally competent leadership. Recognized as Fort Worth ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year and honored by multiple organizations for her leadership and mentorship, she is passionate about serving as a catalyst for growth, purpose, and transformation in education, ministry, and organizational leadership globally.
• 06-16-21 TLC
• The University of Texas at Arlington - MEd
• Fort Worth ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year
• Woman of Faith Recognition Award for work in business and ministry
• Woman of Influence Award with Queens Gathering Network
• Top 100 Women of Power and Influence by Power Magazine
• Outstanding Service as a Mentor Award
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to living with purpose and serving others. I strive to lead through a servant-leadership approach, guided by faith and a genuine commitment to care for and uplift those I serve.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Some of the best career advice I’ve received is to do work that doesn’t feel like work and to genuinely love the people you serve. True success comes from serving others with joy and purpose, following the example of Christ, who came to serve, not be served.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering the industry to prioritize serving others, seek out learning opportunities that foster growth and relevance, cultivate cultural competence, and maintain balance through intentional self-care.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is balancing the drive to serve and empower others with staying true to my own personal goals and growth. It’s important to remain in spaces that foster evolution and relevance, adapting to new seasons with fresh perspectives. At the same time, maintaining balance—as a mother, a leader, and a servant—is crucial. Prioritizing self-care ensures I can continue to give my best, because you can’t pour from an empty cup.