Book emphasizes perspectives of African-American women on leadership theories

VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 1/6/20)—In “Meant for Good: Fundamentals of Womanist Leadership,” author, speaker, advisor and thought-leader Debora Jackson highlights leadership fundamentals gleaned from the biblical story of Joseph’s exile and rise to power in Egypt and from the stories of black women’s experiences that may be redeemed for the good of ourselves and our organizations.

African-American women survived nearly 400 years of oppression by crafting a creative culture of resistance, personal perseverance in the struggle and the ability to adapt while remaining undergirded by faith.

Of particular interest to womanist theory scholars, pastors, faith-based leaders and other leaders seeking new strategies for organizational transformation, this book emphasizes the voices and perspectives of African-American women on theories of leadership. It provides an accessible introduction to womanist leadership; demonstrates the faith, strength and perseverance of African-American women throughout history; and highlights leadership fundamentals relevant for ministry, nonprofit, corporate and volunteer work.

Debora Jackson, M.Div., D.Min., is director of Lifelong Learning at Yale Divinity School and former executive director of the Ministers Council, American Baptist Churches USA. She also served as senior pastor of First Baptist Church, Needham, Mass. Having previously held numerous corporate leadership positions, she worked as a Chief Operating Officer, Chief Information Officer and an independent consultant. She is author of the award winning title “Spiritual Practices for Effective Leadership: 7Rs of Sanctuary for Pastors” (Judson Press, 2015).

Founded in 1824, Judson Press is a publishing ministry of American Baptist Home Mission Societies, American Baptist Churches USA. It is committed to producing Christ-centered leadership resources for the transformation of individuals, congregations, communities and cultures.

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.