Hall of Fame | Mississippi BGC

This Hall of Fame is a virtual museum celebrating the extraordinary youth, men and women who have made significant contributions to the Boys & Girls Club Movement in Mississippi.

Each has helped raise the standards and level of professionalism in the Boys & Girls Club Movement, while inspiring and mentoring future generations, laying the ground work that encourages us all to strive for excellence in helping children who need us most.

Inductees are announced at a dinner held at the annual TRIAD Area Council meeting.

Mission of the Mississippi Boys & Girls Clubs Hall of Fame:

Honors the extraordinary achievements of Club members, board & program volunteers, professional staff, and community leaders - for their significant contributions to the Boys & Girls Club Movement.
Educates target Mississippi audiences on the mission, history, foundation of Boys & Girls club work, the youth development process, and the impact of Boys & Girls club on society.
Inspires current and attracts future volunteers, board leaders, professionals, and investors by providing the standards by which great leaders and accomplishments are measured.

2026 Hall of Fame Inductees

Martha Burdette

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast

Martha and her husband, Ernest “Lin” Burdette’s story is rooted in a lifelong partnership defined by service, generosity, and a shared belief in the power of investing in young people. The two met in second grade while attending the same elementary school in Birmingham, Alabama, and their love story has continued through more than 60 years of marriage. Throughout their lives together, their love, passion, and compassion for others have been expressed through their family, their faith, and their unwavering commitment to community service.

Lin Burdette is the co-founder of Triton Systems, a company that develops and manufactures advanced electronic systems used in the banking industry. Under his leadership, Triton Systems became an industry innovator, and Lin served as president for more than two decades. His

professional success has always been paired with a deep sense of responsibility to give back, particularly in ways that create opportunity and stability for young people.

Martha Burdette devoted her career to education, serving for 35 years as an educator and Head of Trinity Episcopal Church’s Pre-K School, where she taught generations of children foundational academic and social skills. Her work shaped countless young lives and reflected her lifelong commitment to nurturing, guiding, and advocating for children during their most formative years.

Together, Lin and Martha have been steadfast champions of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast for more than 40 years. Their involvement has included sustained financial support, hands-on engagement, and long-term leadership. They established the Burdette Family Foundation, which has contributed nearly $175,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast, directly supporting youth programming, scholarships, staff recognition, and organizational stability. Martha has also served as a dedicated Board Member for over three decades, providing continuity, guidance, and advocacy for the Club’s mission.

Beyond financial support, the Burdettes have been deeply invested in the lives of Club members—sponsoring scholarships, supporting the Club’s “open door” policy, and standing alongside the organization during periods of growth and transition. Their relationship with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast is defined not only by longevity, but by trust, presence, and a genuine connection to the youth and families served.

Their service extends well beyond the Club. Lin and Martha are active members of Trinity Episcopal Church in Gulfport, where they have supported outreach ministries including youth programs, prison ministry, and efforts to provide meals to those in need. Lin has also piloted medical and humanitarian flights across Mississippi and beyond, with Martha serving as his co-pilot, helping individuals—including Boys & Girls Club families—access critical care. They make service a family affair, involving their children and grandchildren in efforts such as Camp Able, supporting students with disabilities through enriching outdoor experiences.

Through decades of leadership, generosity, and quiet service, Ernest “Lin” and Martha Burdette have left an enduring legacy—one defined by their belief in children, commitment to community, and lifelong dedication to the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs.

Steve Hill

Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Mississippi

Steve Hill’s life has been a testament to the power of service, mentorship, and community. His journey with the Boys & Girls Club began in 1978, when he became one of the first African American members in Corinth, Mississippi, following a landmark lawsuit that opened doors for teens like him. From that moment, the Club became more than an organization, it became his life’s calling. Over the past four decades, Steve has dedicated himself to ensuring that all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Starting as an Outreach Coordinator in 1988, Steve expanded access to programs and strengthened the Club’s presence in the community. Since 2000, as Unit Director, he has

overseen daily operations, mentored more than 400 young men, and led initiatives that combine fun, skill-building, and character development. From the Keystone Club, which empowers teens with leadership and civic engagement skills, to karate, gymnastics, dance, and overnight basketball tournaments, Steve has created programs that teach discipline, teamwork, and confidence. He has also built strong partnerships with local schools, city leaders, and national organizations, ensuring that the Club remains a supportive outlet for youth.

Steve’s commitment to service extends far beyond the Boys & Girls Club. As Alderman for Ward 4 in Corinth, he works tirelessly to improve neighborhoods, support families, and promote economic growth. He has served on the boards of Habitat for Humanity and the Corinth Alliance’s Community Development Committee. In addition, he holds leadership roles at City Road Temple C.M.E. Church, where he helps guide both the spiritual and operational life of the congregation.

Recognized at local, state, and national levels, Steve’s awards reflect both his professional excellence and the profound impact of his mentorship. These include the National Service to Youth Award, the Youth Development Professional Award, the Distinguished Level Youth Development Award, and a Certificate of Achievement for his civic leadership.

He is married to Mrs. Patti Hill and together they have six (6) children, all of whom were Club kids who have passed on the legacy of the Corinth Boys’ and Girls’ Club to their children. Through his unwavering dedication, Steve Hill has touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of hope, opportunity, and inspiration for generations to come.

Christopher C. Moore

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast

Christopher C. Moore was a lifelong servant leader whose commitment to youth development and community service left an indelible mark on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, most notably through his more than 45 years of unwavering dedication to the Boys & Girls Clubs movement.

Mr. Moore became involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast long before the organization formally included “Girls” in its name, demonstrating his early and steadfast belief in inclusive opportunities for all young people. He was instrumental in the organization’s formative years, working alongside founding leaders such as Lee Kerley to help establish strong governance, community credibility, and long-term sustainability for the Clubs.

Beginning in 1987, Mr. Moore served on the Corporate Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Clubs of

the Gulf Coast, including a term as Board President from 1992 to 1994. His leadership was defined by integrity, vision, and an unwavering focus on putting youth first. Over the course of his service, he helped raise tens of thousands of dollars in support of Club programs and operations, consistently advocating for the resources necessary to ensure children and teens had access to safe spaces, caring mentors, and life-changing opportunities.

Even after transitioning to Board Member Emeritus status in 2016, Mr. Moore remained actively engaged until his passing in 2022. He continued to serve as a trusted advisor, ambassador, and champion for the Clubs, exemplifying what it means to remain committed to a mission for a lifetime.

In recognition of his extraordinary service, Mr. Moore received numerous honors from the Boys & Girls Club movement, including Board Member of the Year, the Lee Kerley Dedication to Youth Award, the Outstanding Supporter Award, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Service to Youth Award, the BGCA Medallion, and multiple Man & Youth Awards from the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast.

Beyond the Clubs, Mr. Moore was deeply engaged in civic life, serving in leadership roles with organizations such as the NAACP, Coastal Family Health Center, Biloxi Housing Authority, Mississippi Coast Coliseum Commission, and numerous veterans, faith-based, and fraternal organizations. His life was defined by service, faith, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.

Christopher C. Moore’s legacy lives on through the countless young people whose lives were shaped by his vision, generosity, and belief in their potential. His contributions to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast stand as a testament to a life devoted to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Ron Thornton is a devoted husband and father, he has three children, a son and two daughters. He serves as a role-model and father-figure to many of the youth he works with. Ron Thornton completed his undergraduate degree in legal studies and history with a minor in African American studies from Kaplan University. He also earned master’s degree in higher education leadership from Kaplan University. He has been a professional in the Boys & Girls Club movement for over 18 years. Ron’s tenure began with Boys & Girls Clubs in August of 2001 at the Oprah Winfrey Boys & Girls Club where he served as a volunteer, Program Instructor, Teen Director, and Educational Director. He joined the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi in February 2014 as the Program Director at the Canton Unit. Since then Ron has served in many different capacities including: Unit Director and VP of Operations. He has made a career out of going the extra mile to help youth

Ron Thornton

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Golden Triangle

achieve their goals. His service to his community has impacted many lives. He is also responsible for helping several young people attend college. In December of 2019, Ron joined the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Golden Triangle as President/CEO. Working in the field of public service means a lot, “You get to give back and help someone else succeed in life.” To those who wish to mentor youth, “never give up on a student who wants helps. Go the extra mile!”

Ron Thornton is President and Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Golden Triangle, bringing more than 26 years of experience in youth development and public service. A first-generation college graduate, entrepreneur, national trainer, and leadership coach, Ron is the founder of the Character Club male mentoring program. He began his Boys & Girls Club career in 1999 at the Oprah Winfrey Boys & Girls Club and has since served in numerous leadership and executive roles, including Vice President of Operations, before assuming his current role in December 2019. Ron has been named Mississippi CEO of the Year on three occasions, recognizing his exceptional leadership and community impact. He is deeply passionate about granting access to life’s opportunities to all.

Ron holds a bachelor’s degree in legal studies and history with a minor in African American Studies and a master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership from Kaplan University. He will earn his Doctorate degree from National University in May 2026. A devoted husband to his wife Nicole and father of one son and two beautiful daughters—Christian, Trinity, and Ava, Ron is a respected role model and mentor whose leadership has positively impacted countless lives. His guiding philosophy remains simple: never give up on a student who wants help—and always go the extra mile.

Ron Thornton is President and Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Golden Triangle and a nationally respected leader in youth development, leadership training, and community impact. With more than 26 years of service, Ron has dedicated his life to opening doors of opportunity for young people who need it most. A first-generation college graduate, entrepreneur, national trainer, and leadership coach, he is also the founder of the Character Club male mentoring program—created to instill purpose, discipline, and character in the next generation of leaders. Ron began his journey with the Boys & Girls Clubs movement in 1999 at the Oprah Winfrey Boys & Girls Club and has since risen through the ranks to executive leadership. His impact has been recognized statewide, earning him the honor of Mississippi CEO of the Year three times.

Ron’s passion is rooted in both his personal and professional life. He holds degrees in Legal Studies and History, a master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership, and has earned his Doctorate degree from National University. A devoted husband to his wife Nicole and father of one son and two beautiful daughters—Christian, Trinity, and Ava, Ron is driven by a simple but powerful belief: every person deserves access to life’s opportunities. His message to mentors and leaders is clear—never give up on someone who wants help and always go the extra mile.