ABHMS Board of Directors convenes November 2024 meeting, a time of reflection, celebration, renewal

VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 12/06/2024)—The American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) Board of Directors convened for its November 2024 meeting at ABHMS’ Leadership and Mission Building in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, a gathering marked by two days of robust discussion, heartfelt celebration, and an infusion of new energy. The agenda highlighted ongoing initiatives, upcoming plans, and key transitions in leadership that will impact ABHMS’ ministry moving forward.

Recapping activities and accomplishments

In a comprehensive status report on ABHMS’ transformative work, Executive Director Dr. Jeffrey Haggray outlined strategic activities shaping the organization’s missional effectiveness and forward progress since the Board last convened. Select members of ABHMS’ leadership team joined him, each contributing updates on their areas of expertise.

Haggray opened by reflecting on two significant leadership transitions within ABHMS. One is the pending retirement of Michaele Birdsall, deputy executive director and CFO-treasurer. She will depart at the end of December after nearly two decades of distinguished service to the organization. The second is the retirement of Controller Alma Hazboun, who stepped down at the end of September after a decade-long tenure. Since October, Birdsall has been guiding a seamless onboarding of Clifton Strain, the new CFO-treasurer, and Phil Cook, the new controller.

Haggray then highlighted ABHMS’ strides in leveraging technology to advance mission effectiveness. One transformative step is the adoption of Salesforce, a world-leading platform designed to streamline data systems and improve connectivity. Chief Technology, Information, and Security Officer the Rev. Saeed Richardson has been leading that implementation, which will integrate key programs, including chaplaincy ministries, scholarships, the ministrElife platform, and Resources for Good, with a goal of fostering stronger relationships and more efficient service delivery.

While the process is “time-consuming,” explained Haggray, “our integration with Salesforce allows us to unify and streamline data. This investment will bolster our ability to connect with constituents, respond to needs, promote programs, and share ABHMS’ mission stories with greater consistency and effectiveness.”

Haggray next turned his attention to fundraising and grant initiatives, with presentations from Chief Development Officer Vincent Dent and the Rev. Dr. Marie, Onwubuariri, director of ABHMS Intercultural Ministries. Dent reported on long-term fundraising priorities and associated multi-year strategies intended to secure sustainable resources for new ministry initiatives, while Onwubuariri described two 2024 grant proposals ABHMS submitted to Lilly Endowment Inc.

Onwubuariri explained that the proposals seek a total of $2.25 million over multiple years to fund distinct initiatives aimed at deepening ABHMS’ commitment to children, youth, and intercultural ministries. In October, ABHMS was awarded $1.25 million for its “Nurturing Children Initiative,” which will redefine the organization’s engagement with children and youth. An announcement from Lilly Endowment about the second proposal—a $1.0 million grant to strengthen Latino ministries—is expected in December.

ABHMS’ Intercultural Ministries team, charged with shepherding the Lilly Endowment initiatives, also continues to expand its important work of empowering diverse emerging leaders and increasing cross-cultural competencies. For instance, team members recently traveled to New England to co-lead training hosted by Massachusetts Baptist Multicultural Ministries. This trip also included facilitating a discussion about the historic roots of the Black Church in America.

Judson Press, meanwhile, continues its bicentennial celebration. Under the leadership of the Rev. Cheryl Price, Ph.D., ABHMS’ historic publishing ministry is seeking to broaden its appeal among consumers of faith-based literature. Price described ongoing efforts to invigorate revenue generation through a four-pronged strategy: diversify and expand Judson Press’ portfolio to include additional genres and topics, attract new authors and readers, increase sales and customer service outreach, and fortify promotional efforts to achieve greater levels of visibility in the marketplace.

As he neared the end of his report, Haggray emphasized that justice and accountability remain core values of ABHMS. He then highlighted instances when the organization addressed historical injustices. One was the transfer to the Cheyenne and Arapahoe tribes of a deed to the Watonga Indian Cemetery in Watonga, Oklahoma. Another was engaging in dialogues with Indigenous people about the disturbing legacy of Native American boarding schools.

Haggray concluded by looking ahead to 2025. In early July, ABHMS will be deeply involved with the Biennial Mission Summit of American Baptist Churches USA, including hosting meals, conducting workshops, and showcasing its ministries as an exhibitor. In the days immediately preceding that event, the ABHMS Board of Directors will convene in Omaha for its traditional early summer meeting.

Honoring a faithful steward

Board members and workplace colleagues bid a heartfelt farewell to Michaele Birdsall at a November 12 luncheon commemorating her 17 years of unflagging service to ABHMS. For those attending the retirement celebration, it was an opportunity to share stories of Birdsall’s profound impact on the organization.

Their tributes painted a vivid picture of a leader who seamlessly balanced technical expertise with compassion, embodying the values of ABHMS in a role that extended beyond finance to encompass strategic planning, organizational training, and collaborative initiatives.

The Rev. Trevor Hyde, finance committee chair for the board, highlighted Birdsall’s ability to combine business acumen with pastoral care, noting her influence as a mentor who exemplifies grace, kindness, and integrity, while Louis Barbarin, CEO of MMBB, praised her humility and dedication to mission-driven work.

Board member the Rev. Sanetta Ponton commended Birdsall for her stewardship of resources and unwavering commitment to excellence, as did the Rev. Mia Chang, outgoing board vice president. She further admired Birdsall for her “gentle strength” and “infectious positivity,”

The Rev. Dr. Aidsand Wright-Riggins III, the former ABHMS executive director who hired Birdsall, shared anecdotes underscoring her role as an “angel of light” whose quiet yet transformative contributions brought clarity and unity during challenging times. He further noted her consistent truth-telling and steadfast partnership, which elevated both organizational outcomes and personal relationships.

The luncheon concluded with blessings for Birdsall’s next chapter. She has already founded a consultancy practice, Lampstand Associates, LLC, where she plans to offer coaching and organizational development services.

Welcoming new energy

The Board of Directors will enjoy the fresh perspectives of three new members elected to join that body for their first three-year term. Their selection reflects ABHMS’ rigorous criteria for board membership, which prioritize skills in leadership, nonprofit management, and community engagement alongside a commitment to ABHMS’ mission and values. Bringing their unique gifts and experiences are:

• Janna Louie, co-founder of the Coalition of AAPI Churches. She focuses on empowering marginalized communities through advocacy and prophetic justice. Her expertise includes human resources and fundraising.
• G. Travis Norvell, known as “The Pedaling Pastor,” envisions churches as hubs of justice and transformation. His ministry has been shaped by experiences such as Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and social justice movements.
• Dante Quick, Ph.D., a seasoned leader and entrepreneur, combines expertise in finance and advocacy with a passion for transformational ministry. His stewardship-driven vision reflects a deep commitment to faith-based leadership.

Governing policies allow incumbent board members to seek reelection twice, enabling them to serve a total of three terms. Hyde was elected to a second term and was also selected to succeed Chang as board vice president. Other re-elected board members, who will begin their third and final terms, include the Rev. Yamina Apolinaris, also chosen to chair the World Relief Committee; Denise Gibson-Bailey; the Rev. Dr. Corey Fields; and Quinton Romannose.

The November 2024 meeting of the ABHMS Board of Directors showcased the breadth of the organization’s work and the depth of its commitment to mission-driven leadership. From reflections on its historic milestones to bold steps for the future, the gathering also reaffirmed ABHMS’ role as a catalyst for transformation.

To learn more about ABHMS and its Board of Directors, visit us online at abhms.org.

American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.