Thornwell promotes Milhous to vice president for advancement and strategic impact

Thornwell has promoted Elizabeth Milhous to vice president for advancement and strategic impact, the Clinton-based Christian ministry announced Aug. 20.

Milhous joined Thornwell in February 2024 as vice president for mission advancement, where she led the organization’s fundraising, donor relations and stewardship efforts. She came to the ministry with more than 15 years of leadership experience across higher education and social services, including work in annual giving at the national level.

In announcing the promotion, Thornwell said Milhous has a particular ability to see both where the ministry stands today and where it has room to grow. Leaders credited her with bringing people together, thinking intentionally about the future and keeping the heart of the mission at the center of the work.

In the new role, Milhous will help shape Thornwell’s next chapter by strengthening the relationships, resources and opportunities that allow the ministry to continue serving children and families across the Southeast.

Founded in 1875 in Clinton, Thornwell serves children and families in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida through foster care, residential care, educational services, in-home family counseling and trauma-informed support. The ministry also operates LushAcres Farm, which provides fresh food to the community while supporting Thornwell’s broader work.

Earlier this year, Thornwell earned national accreditation through March 2030 from the Council on Accreditation. The organization also holds Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency and a four-star rating from Charity Navigator.

Thornwell’s campus is located at 302 S. Broad St. in downtown Clinton. More information about the ministry and its programs is available at thornwell.org.