Thornton Takes EssenceFest Stage, Shines Light on the Power of Style and Confidence
Thornton Takes EssenceFest Stage, Shines Light on the Power of Style and Confidence
When she paces the sideline with extreme focus and intense energy, Dawn Thornton’s style and presence demand attention. Last week, the AAMU Women’s Basketball head coach joined the BeautyCon panel at the 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture.
"My style is definitely an extension of who I am", Thornton said. "It's confident, intentional, and sometimes a little extra, in the best way. That's how I coach, too. I'm big on presence and energy, and your preparation is your separation. Confidence is not just taught, its modeled, and I want them to always see that in me."
BeautyCon programming celebrates beauty in all its diversity, focusing on the voices and stories of women from the South who are shaping the beauty landscape.
Last season, the AAMU Women's basketball had a historic season in Thornton’s first season at the helm of the program. The team amassed over 20 wins for the first time during the division I era. They also notched the best preseason record in program history and finished the regular season tied for the most Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) weekly awards received by one program, with 11.
Thornton said expression of her person style helps fuel success and the overcoming of challenges.
"Intersecting style with sports is something I've done my whole life,” she said. “Showing up unapologetically ready to embrace whatever challenges lie ahead."