Leadership & Staff

President

Church: Berean Baptist Church, Brooklyn, New York

Region: American Baptist Churches of Metro New York

Committees:  Executive and Governance

Rev. Trevor Hyde is pastor of the historic Berean Baptist Church, Brooklyn, New York, where Dr. Arlee Griffin Jr. is senior pastor. Hyde’s role is many-fold and includes supervising staff and servant-leaders; planning special worship and programs; overseeing the operational budget; managing IT services; and engaging the community. Additionally, he is liaison among the church and its subsidiaries, including Berean Credit Union, Berean Community & Family Life Center, Berean Gardens Senior Housing and Berean Housing Development Fund Corp. “Most meaningful to me about serving on the board of directors for ABHMS is the opportunity to partner with a Christ-centered organization that is striving to address the social ills of society with the Gospel of Christ as its lens and excellence as one of its main attributes.”

Vice President

Title: Chief of Staff

Organization: Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty

Committee: Governance

Rev. Janna Louie is chief of staff of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, directing BJC’s programs and serving as chief people officer. She finds joy in work that allows her to “journey with people and communities that are doing their part to partner with God to create a just and whole society for all people.” Louie is the co-founder of the Coalition of Asian American Pacific Islander Churches. She holds an M.Div. from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University where she majored in Mathematics and Secondary Education, minored in Music, and pursued concentrated coursework in Jewish studies. Of her role on the board, she says, “I see ABHMS as the heartbeat of the church’s vocation for American Baptists. I am simply humbled to learn from and serve alongside incredible people to partner with God in tending a more just and healed world.”

Church: Primera Iglesia Bautista de Caguas, Puerto Rico

Region: American Baptist Churches of Puerto Rico

Committees: Governance and World Rellief

For the past 13 years, the Rev. Yamina Apolinaris has served as executive director of Corporación Milagros del Amor (“Miracles of Love Corporation”), Caguas, Puerto Rico, serving and working along with homeless individuals, senior citizens and survivors of domestic violence. In addition to being a past regional executive of American Baptist Churches of Puerto Rico, she has served over the years in various leadership roles on many boards at the denomination’s national level. She is interim pastor of Primera Iglesia Bautista de Caguas. “The mission of the American Baptist family has been my passion throughout my life,” she says. “I value what we model as a denomination and what we stand for. Much of what I am and what I have accomplished, I owe to my denomination.”

Church: Calvary Baptist Church, Newark, Delaware

Region: American Baptist Churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware

Committees: Audit and World Relief

Rev. Dr. Corey S. Fields is senior pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, Newark, Delaware. Known in the community for ministry to the poor and to refugees, Calvary was among the churches instrumental in founding the city’s day center for the poor. He hopes to expand Calvary’s solid tradition of mission by exploring ways to connect it with his research and experience in community development, cross-sector partnerships and justice. “I am passionate about making a real difference in people’s lives,” he says, “and putting the love of Christ into action.” Fields earned a D.Min. from Central Baptist Theological Seminary, Shawnee, Kansas; an M.Div. from Baptist Theological Seminary, Richmond, Virginia; and a B.A. from James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Church: Metropolitan Baptist Church, Largo, Maryland

Region: D.C. Baptist Convention
Committee: Audit

Denise Gibson-Bailey believes that one’s professional and Christian lives must stand together. Thus, her dedication to ministry is as strong as her business acumen. As president of Gibson-Bailey Associates, she provides management consulting and customized training to nonprofit organizations. As a professor at Prince George's Community College, University of the District of Columbia, and University of Maryland Global Campus, she mentors and inspires our future business leaders. Yet she continues to seek creative ways to serve God and to heal communities. “Through my church and other local organizations, I am actively involved in ministries that are designed to meet the human needs in my community,” she says. She earned a B.A. at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and an MBA at Emory University, Atlanta.

Church: North Shore Baptist Church, Chicago

Region: American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago

Committee: Finance

Believing that his calling was ordained before birth, Rev. Douglas Harris received his call to ordained ministry at age 17. He has served in a number of roles over the years, including as youth/young adult minister in several churches; church pastor in Detroit; pastor at North Shore Baptist Church, Chicago, which worships in four languages; and as interim executive minister for American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago. He most recently served as president of the Ministers Council of American Baptist Churches USA. “I have spent my entire ministry making certain that everyone feels welcomed and empowered in God’s family,” he says. “The witness of ABHMS through the years has been inspiring to me, especially in times when some wanted to close doors on people who were different.”

Church: Urban Grace Church, Tacoma, Washington

Region: Evergreen Association of American Baptist Churches

Committee: Audit

Rev. Bianca Luna is one of the pastors at Urban Grace Church in Tacoma, Washington, where she has served since the summer of 2021. Her multifaceted role includes leading children’s and youth ministries, overseeing community groups, and guiding the Tacoma Joint Youth Group across the greater Tacoma region. Bianca is passionate about inclusiveness and creating spaces where everyone feels a true sense of belonging. A proud Californian, she loves hiking and spending time in nature; it is one of her favorite ways to worship and witness creation thrive.

Church: First Baptist Church of McMinnville, Oregon

Region: American Baptist Churches of the Central Pacific Region

Committee: Finance

Rev. Erika Marksbury pastors the creative, compassionate, justice-minded First Baptist Church of McMinnville, Oregon, and is continually inspired by the congregation’s commitment to its community. She moved to the Pacific Northwest for this role in 2015 from Kansas, where she had taught at her alma mater, Ottawa University, and served as associate pastor of a Disciples of Christ church. She earned an M. Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from the University of Missouri – Kansas City, where she wrote her dissertation about childbirth rituals. She remains fascinated by all the ways people make meaning, individually and collectively.

Church: Judson Memorial Baptist Church, Minneapolis, MN

Region: American Baptist Churches of the Rochester Genesee Region

Committee: Finance

As pastor of Judson Memorial Baptist Church in Minneapolis, Rev. G. Travis Norvell considers it a privilege to be a part of people’s lives in the pastoral role. He says, “I know of no other job that grants you access to the best and worst moments of life. I get to see people come alive, resurrected even.” He is an adjunct faculty member at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities and has served as an American Baptist pastor for 22 years in both small towns and urban churches. Norvell is the author of the Judson Press book Church on the Move: A Practical Guide for Ministry in the Community. He holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Marshall University and an MDiv from Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. Delighted to be part of the ABHMS board, he explains, “I owe so much of my existence as a pastor to ABHMS. I am excited to give back in whatever ways I can. I believe in the mission of ABHMS; I support its work. I invite others to help make ABHMS a thriving and flourishing organization.”

Title: Senior Pastor

Organization: First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset, New Jersey

Committee: Audit

Rev. Danté R. Quick, Ph.D., was installed as the fourth senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens in Somerset, New Jersey, in 2023. Prior to joining FBCLG, he served Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Vallejo, California, for more than 10 years. Quick was born and reared in Washington, D.C. He relocated to Atlanta to attend Morehouse College where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a concentration in Pre-Law. While at Morehouse, he was one of the first recipients of the William Cosby Grant for Landmark College’s gifted-dyslexic student program. Quick received a Master of Divinity with a concentration in Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary and was conferred with his Ph.D. in Philosophical and Systematic Theology with a focus on African American Studies from the Graduate Theological Union, University of California at Berkeley. Quick is the proud parent of Alexander Danté and Kennedy Danielle.

Church: Third Baptist Church of Chicago

Region: American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago

Committees:  Executive and Audit

Dr. Barbara Ragland serves as president of the Lydia Group Institute: Faith-based Strategies for Congregational Agility, Olympia Fields, Illinois, which provides clergy, lay leaders and executives of faith-based organizations with leadership development and training aimed at operational efficiency and organizational agility. Clients have included congregations, seminaries and religious organizations from across the United States. No stranger to ministry with other boards of directors, Ragland finds that her strengths include organization development, change management and program development. Her experience includes mission with the Progressive National Baptist Convention, the United Methodist Convention and the Ghana Baptist Convention. She looks forward to serving with ABHMS’ board because, she says, she seeks “to be a partner in helping to strengthen organizations, congregations and communities throughout the Baptist expanse.”

Church: Watonga (Okla.) Indian Baptist Church

Region: American Baptist Churches of the Central Region

Committee: Governance

Serving with respect for the sovereignty of each tribal nation, Quinton Romannose advocates for American Indian education policy at the federal, state, local and tribal government levels. He is president of Riverside Indian School, Anadarko, Okla., and serves on the Tribal Enrollment Committee and the Tribal Health Board for the Cheyenne Arapaho Tribes. He also served with the National Indian Education Association and on the board of Bacone College, Muskogee, Oklah. A lay leader known for his bridge-building abilities, he has been moderator for the Oklahoma Indian American Baptist Church and currently serves on the American Baptist Indian Caucus.

Church: Salem Baptist Church, North Wales, Pa.

Region: American Baptist churches of Pennsylvania and Delaware

Committees: Executive and Finance

A regional manager at Bayer, Vincent M. Ross is excited about his organization’s ability to bring new and sustainable technology to agriculture. His goal is to continue to bring innovation and research in the agriculture field. “Not only will this [innovation] help feed the world,” he says, “but it will provide employment opportunities.” A mentor in his place of work, he says, “The most rewarding part about my job is to be able to help an employee reach his or her career goals and objectives.” He earned an MBA at the University of Virginia and graduated from the Global Leadership Exchange, St. Louis, Mo. He is a trustee and
a member of the Adult Citizens Board at his church. 

Church: Concord Baptist Church of Christ, Brooklyn, New York

Region: American Baptist Churches of Metro New York

Committee: Finance

Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson is the leading pastor of the Concord Baptist Church of Christ. Having responded to God’s call on his life while still a teenager, he preached his first sermon at the age of 15 at the Southfield Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, OH, and was ordained at the age of 20 by the Eastern Union Missionary Baptist Church Association. He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Denison University with a BA in Religion and Black Studies; earned a Master of Divinity from Union Theological Seminary in NYC; and the Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary. Dr. Simpson is an accomplished musician and teacher with a heart for pastoring God’s people. 

Church: United Church of Granville, Ohio

Region: American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region

Committee: Governance

Rev. Dr. Alissia J. Thompson is pastor of United Church of Granville, Ohio, where she builds and deepens relationships with “thoughtful, compassionate and fun folks.” She finds meaning in journeying alongside fellow Christians on the path of healing, and she strives to foster a community of care wherein people are genuinely invested in one another’s flourishing. A board-certified chaplain and licensed clinical professional counselor, Rev. Thompson holds a Master of Counseling from the University of Phoenix and a Master of Divinity from the University of Chicago. She is currently working toward a Doctor of Ministry from Fordham University.  Rev. Thompson looks forward to serving on the ABHMS board, “to further God’s mission of peace and justice alongside some extraordinary individuals.”

Church: First Baptist Church in America, Providence, Rhode Island

Region: American Baptist Churches of Rhode Island

Committee:  Executive

Rev. Jamie P. Washam pastors First Baptist Church in America, Providence, Rhode Island, where she has served since fall 2015. The church remains committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ and Roger Williams’ founding vision of soul liberty. A native Texan, Washam graduated from University of Texas at Austin and Harvard Divinity School. As an agent of God’s love, she considers it an honor to get paid to do what she would do in her free time anyway.

Executive Director

As executive director of American Baptist Home Mission Societies and Judson Press, Dr. Jeffrey Haggray finds the heart of his ministry in motivating Christians to impact communities with their deeply-held faith; encouraging emerging leaders to discern and respond to God’s call; and emphasizing God’s loving concern for humanity’s well-being, wholeness and justice.

Haggray works closely with diverse national and regional partners to provide a clear vision of the Christian mission in today’s world, to cultivate relationships and to develop resources for transformational ministry with congregations, communities and regions across the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico.

Having served congregations in New Jersey; Washington, D.C.; and Georgia, Haggray understands the day-to-day needs of local congregations involved in disciple-making, worship, leadership development, evangelism and mission engagement. As a regional executive minister for the District of Columbia Baptist Convention, Haggray found that access to necessary human and material resources allows congregations and institutions to positively impact their communities without limit.

“When a compelling mission-driven vision is coupled with faith in God and a strong determination to succeed, the required resources often follow,” he says. “The United States of America is a strategic mission field for proclaiming the Christian gospel, developing Christian disciples, promoting justice, and collaborating and networking for ministry. As we impact America for Christ, we impact the world, and I am motivated by that prospect.”

Phone: (610) 768-2400
Email: jeffrey.haggray@abhms.org

Senior Associate for Grants, Partnerships & Strategy

As American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ (ABHMS) senior associate for Grants, Partnerships & Strategy Alignment, the Rev. Rothangliani R. Chhangte engages American Baptist congregations, regions and affiliated institutions in finding new ways to connect and collaborate to make a greater impact throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.

Invigorated by challenges, Chhangte notes that she is undeterred by today’s dwindling church attendance, church closings and increase of the “nones,” or individuals unaffiliated with religious denominations.

“ABHMS has a history of being in the forefront of mission work in the United States, and I am thrilled to be able to help explore new ways of doing ministry and mission at this particular point in time,” she says. “I am ready to help our churches find new ways of doing mission by reaching out to new neighbors with the love of Christ. I am excited about working with ABHMS to enhance its mission of cultivating Christ-centered leaders and disciples to heal and change communities.”

Phone: (610) 768-2426
Email: rothangliani.chhangte@abhms.org

Director of Mission Engagement

Lisa Harris Lee is the director of Mission Engagement out of the Office of the Executive Director.

Phone: (610) 768-2158
Email: lisa.harris-lee@abhms.org

Executive Assistant for Board, Denominational, and External Relations and Concierge-Receptionist

Her role as assistant to the executive director of American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) allows Felecia J. Mitchell to fulfill a heartfelt desire to work for an organization that follows the teachings of Jesus Christ, exhibits love by helping those in need and makes the world a better place for all.

“It’s exciting to know that God is using me to help ABHMS cultivate leaders, equip disciples and heal communities,” she says. “I implement and support essential work that changes hearts and empowers people to live boldly for Christ.”

In addition, she assists ABHMS as it builds stronger relationships that lead to effective collaboration on American Baptist Churches USA’s national, regional and local levels. Mitchell served as project manager for the Barnabas Ministry in Overland Park, Kan., in 2013 and ABHMS’ Future Search Project at the Mission Center in Valley Forge, Pa., in 2012.

Her poems appear in the winter 2012/2013 and fall 2012 issues of The Secret Place, the daily devotional of ABHMS’ publishing ministry, Judson Press.

Phone: (610) 768-2407
Email: felecia.mitchell@abhms.org

Executive Assistant for Programs, Strategy, and Internal Relations

Executive Assistant for Programs, Strategy, and Internal Relations

Phone: (610) 768-2452
Email: raquel.perez@abhms.org

Paralegal & Administrative Associate

Paralegal & Administrative Associate, Office of the Executive Director

Phone: (610) 768-2466
Email: julie.thomas@abhms.org

Executive Director

As executive director of American Baptist Home Mission Societies and Judson Press, Dr. Jeffrey Haggray finds the heart of his ministry in motivating Christians to impact communities with their deeply-held faith; encouraging emerging leaders to discern and respond to God’s call; and emphasizing God’s loving concern for humanity’s well-being, wholeness and justice.

Haggray works closely with diverse national and regional partners to provide a clear vision of the Christian mission in today’s world, to cultivate relationships and to develop resources for transformational ministry with congregations, communities and regions across the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico.

Having served congregations in New Jersey; Washington, D.C.; and Georgia, Haggray understands the day-to-day needs of local congregations involved in disciple-making, worship, leadership development, evangelism and mission engagement. As a regional executive minister for the District of Columbia Baptist Convention, Haggray found that access to necessary human and material resources allows congregations and institutions to positively impact their communities without limit.

“When a compelling mission-driven vision is coupled with faith in God and a strong determination to succeed, the required resources often follow,” he says. “The United States of America is a strategic mission field for proclaiming the Christian gospel, developing Christian disciples, promoting justice, and collaborating and networking for ministry. As we impact America for Christ, we impact the world, and I am motivated by that prospect.”

Phone: (610) 768-2400
Email: jeffrey.haggray@abhms.org

Ecclesiastical Endorser & Director of Spiritual Caregivers

Lisa Harris Lee is director of Mission Engagement out of the Office of the Executive Director.

Phone: (610) 768-2158
Email: lisa.harris-lee@abhms.org

ministrElife Director of Membership, Content and Usage

Having served in many ministry roles, the Rev. Erica Van Brakle is well-suited to her role as ministrElife Director of Membership, Content, and Usage.

“The work is meaningful to me because I have been in the field in roles that I am now able to support,” she says. “I am so excited about supporting ministry professionals from start to finish—and even keeping them connected to the American Baptist family in retirement!”

Noting that ministry is not done in isolation, Van Brakle says she is passionate about connecting ministry professionals who share a sense of call to collaborate.

“I want to make ministrElife the platform that ministry professionals rely on to do the work that God has called them to,” she says.

A unique aspect of ministrElife is its ability to adapt as new models of ministry, delivery of continuing education and resources emerge.

“The ministrElife platform,” Van Brakle says, “is able to not only speak into these facets but connect those who are doing the work in the field to communicate in real time.”

Phone: (610) 768-2429
Email: erica.vanbrakle@abhms.org

Director of ABPS Leadership Placement & Networking on ministrElife

Rev. Meg Biddle is the Director of ABPS Leadership Placement & Networking on ministrElife. Her job is to help people make connections and tell their stories, regardless of their position. Maybe an individual needs the help of another person with a particular skill set; ministrElife—ABHMS’ online platform— is the perfect way for them to contact each other.

As a former pastor, Meg understands the complexity and challenges of life in ministry. “Ministry is messy and difficult, but it is also beautiful and the greatest thing you will ever have the privilege to do,” she says. “My call is to build relationships and create opportunities to collaborate with others.”

Biddle was pastor of Federated Church, Carlinville, Ill., as well as First Baptist Church, Central Square, N.Y. She was also an intern at First Baptist Church, Columbus, Ind. She is currently a Doctor of Ministry student at Central Seminary.

Phone: (610) 768-2488
Email: megan.biddle@abhms.org

Program Coordinator, Emerging Leaders & Scholarships

Program Coordinator, Emerging Leaders & Scholarships

Phone: (610) 768-2021
Email: lianne.quaynor@abhms.org

Facilitator of the Church Starters Initiative

Email: wallace.smith@abhms.org

Director of Scholarships, Ministerial Grants, and Emerging Leaders Initiatives

As the Director of Scholarships, Ministerial Grants, and Emerging Leaders Initiatives, Alexzandria Sanchez is dedicated to changing lives through the remarkable gift of education.

“As a first-gen Latina graduate who attended Ithaca College on a full merit scholarship, I am aware of the role scholarships play in a student’s academic and personal achievements.”

While bringing awareness to American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ many resources, Sanchez has also been excited to build relationships with award recipients. She says, “Sometimes you need someone in your corner, acknowledging that your work is important and reminding you that your goals are worth investing in.”

She is actively involved in her community, advocating for social change and supporting justice-centered initiatives to provide resources and opportunities for underserved populations.

Phone: (610) 768-2315
Email: alexzandria.sanchez@abhms.org

Program Coordinator

Program Coordinator, Leadership Empowerment

Phone: (610) 768-2462
Email: leslie.williams@abhms.org

Director of Healing & Transforming Communities

Rev. Dr. Jennifer Stewart serves as the director of Healing & Transforming Communities, where she co-creates spaces for healing, justice, and transformation across churches, communities, and the systems that shape them. This role allows her to integrate faith, strategy, and innovation to help restore hope and dignity to those often overlooked or oppressed.

“My faith compels me to seek justice not just as a theological ideal, but as a lived reality,” she says. “The church has a sacred responsibility to be a vessel of healing and a prophetic voice against injustice. This role lets me live out that calling.”

Stewart holds a Ph.D. and Master of Science in Nursing, a Master of Divinity, a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a bachelor’s degree in biology.

Outside of work, she enjoys reading, artistic and creative pursuits, traveling, singing, listening, and dancing. She treasures time with her husband, their three children, and their doodle dog.

Phone: (610) 768-2177
Email: jennifer.stewart@abhms.org

National Coordinator for Healing & Transforming Communities

Rev. Dr. Brian C. Ellis-Gibbs serves as national coordinator for Healing and Transforming Communities at American Baptist Home Mission Societies. In this role, he engages with community partners to advance healing, justice and liberation. With more than two decades of pastoral leadership and over 10 years of experience in faith-rooted social justice organizing, he brings a deep commitment to transformational ministry grounded in compassion, inquiry and relationship.

“All ministry is relational,” he says. “It requires compassion and love. To do this work well, we must also ask the right questions—because we don’t have all the answers.”

He holds a Doctor of Ministry from New York Theological Seminary, a Master of Divinity from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in history from Morehouse College. Outside of work, Ellis-Gibbs enjoys dancing and teaching seminary-level continuing education courses.

Phone: (610) 768-2192
Email: brian.ellis-gibbs@abhms.org

National Coordinator for Healing & Transforming Communities

Min. Matthew Rivera serves as national coordinator for Healing & Transforming Communities. In this role, he partners with churches, leaders, and organizations to strengthen justice-centered ministries and build systems that amplify impact. He also facilitates ABHMS’ Justice Dialogues, coordinates emergency response efforts, and helps cultivate emerging faith leaders through initiatives like the Summer Passionary Institute.

“God is calling faith leaders to be the prophetic, moral voice,” Rivera says. “To walk alongside those living out that call is both humbling and affirming.”

He holds a Master of Divinity from Andover Newton Seminary at Yale Divinity School and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Trinity College.

Phone: (610) 768-2392
Email: matthew.rivera@abhms.org

Director of Intercultural Ministries

As director of Intercultural Ministries for American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS), Rev. Dr. Marie Onwubuariri is enthusiastic about continuing ABHMS’s historic commitment to relevant ministry within ethnic- and language-specific communities while also raising the attentiveness and ability of all leaders and disciples to engage in transformative work in an increasingly multicultural and multiracial society.

She says, “Transformative work that reflects the fullness of God comes through a life-long journey that includes all of God’s people. This shared journey requires commitment and intentionality by those who are privileged and/or positioned to shape the journey for others to remove all human-made barriers that limit each person’s engagement in the work and contribution to the transformation.”

Her hope is to lead a team who will walk alongside racialized, immigrant, refugee, and language-specific leaders and faith communities, identifying and engaging their particular mission and ministry perspectives, gifts, and needs, and who also will work collaboratively with others to raise the importance of and equip toward effective leadership in cross-, inter-, and multi- racial and cultural contexts.

Phone: (610) 768-2464
Email: marie.onwubuariri@abhms.org

National Coordinator for Latino Ministries and Program Director of Creciendo Juntos

As National Coordinator for Latino Ministries and Program Director of Creciendo Juntos, Rev. Abner Cotto-Bonilla says, “I love to be a resource for ministers and leaders who want to create impact and drive innovation in their communities.” One of his goals in this role is to provide educational approaches for intergenerational and intercultural ministries within the Latino/a community. He is also committed to advocating in matters of justice.

Rev. Cotto-Bonilla’s impressive background includes having served as president of the National Hispanic Caucus, Inter-Caucus ABCUSA, and Unión de Jóvenes Bautistas de Puerto Rico. He was pastor of Misión Bautista Hispana de Westchester in White Plains, NY; a professor of Christian education at Academia Bautista de Puerto Nuevo; and a member of the board at Andover Newton Seminary at Yale.

Ordained in American Baptist Churches USA, Rev. Cotto-Bonilla holds a B.A. in Theological Studies from Universidad Teológica del Caribe (Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico) and a Master of Divinity and Master of Sacred Theology from Yale Divinity School.

When not exploring different cultures, he enjoys long walks, baseball and coffee.

Phone: (610) 768-2082
Email: abner.cotto-bonilla@abhms.org

National Coordinator for Native American Ministries

Rev. Ben Sullivan is uniquely qualified for his role as American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ mission liaison for Native American Ministries. A Native American and preacher’s son, Sullivan grew up at a Kiowa American Baptist church, attended many Native American Ministries events, and participated in mission outreach with his grandparents on the Hopi Indian Reservation.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in Native American Studies at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma, Chickasha, and was employed by the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma. In addition, he serves as executive director of the Christian Center of Anadarko, Okla.

“I have a passion and a calling to preach the gospel of Jesus, and I have a love for Native people because they truly are my family,” he says. “The challenges that Native American people face today and the atrocities that they have suffered in the past break my heart. I believe that the answer continues to be the love of Jesus.”

Sullivan seeks to develop and implement ABHMS’ vision, mission and strategy to cultivate Native American leaders, equip Native American disciples, and heal and transform Native American communities.

“My vision is to bring restoration to the family and continue to build the body of Christ—the church,” he says. “My mission is to create favorable circumstances for people to know Jesus Christ, then to know who they are and to live their lives in Him.”

Phone: (610) 768-2046
Email: ben.sullivan@abhms.org

National Coordinator for Asian Ministries

With Asians and Asian Americans being the largest growing demographic in American Baptist Churches USA, the Rev. Michele Turek sees her role as ABHMS’ National Coordinator for Asian Ministries as more important than ever. Rev. Turek has unbridled passion for God’s people, and she brings it to churches that serve refugee and immigrant communities and their succeeding generations, a population, she notes, that speaks more than 28 different languages.

 “I am called to equip and support ministers,” she says, “and partner with leaders and congregations so they can thrive in God’s call upon their lives.” Rev. Turek’s goal as National Coordinator is to strengthen the ministries of Asian churches, empower their leadership and build relationships with the larger American Baptist family. She is also particularly interested in how cultural identity and heritage interact with one’s faith.

 “The beautifully diverse tapestry of ABCUSA is one of the denomination’s greatest strengths,” says Rev. Turek. “As we build bridges, with Christ our Cornerstone, and learn from one another, we see more clearly the face of God.”

Rev. Turek has a long history of serving with the Alliance of Asian American Baptist Churches in a variety of leadership roles. She spent three years with Japanese Baptist Church of Seattle and then served as Field Operations Director for Intervarsity Christian Fellowship/USA. In addition to an undergraduate degree from University of California, Fresno, Rev. Turek has a Master of Divinity from Fresno Pacific University.

Phone: (610) 768-2092
Email: michele.turek@abhms.org

Partner Liaison for Haitian Ministries

Email: mario.joseph@abhms.org

National Coordinator for Intercultural Engagement and Associate Program Director of Creciendo Juntos

Rev. Abigaíl Medina Betancourt joined American Baptist Home Mission Societies in 2018 as Puerto Rico Volunteer Coordinator for “Rebuilding, Restoring, Renewing Puerto Rico.” In 2021, she was named Intercultural Ministries Strategist, a position in which she encouraged sensitivity to cultural awareness, supported ministries in multicultural and intercultural contexts, and worked to strengthen American Baptist leaders’ capacity to implement effective ministries.

Today, Abigaíl is the National Coordinator for Intercultural Engagement and Associate Director of Creciendo Juntos, serving as a liaison to connect communities to work together. “My goal,” she says, “is to engage people in mission as a life-changing experience through serving with diverse people from different backgrounds and ethnicities.”

Her work empowers churches and communities to develop self-sustainable programs and cultivates new leaders in emerging generations who fight for justice.

A servant leader, Abigaíl has served in short-term mission in Thailand, Haiti and the Republic of Georgia, in addition to speaking at theological ecumenical encounters in Tanzania and Brazil.

Abigaíl holds a Master of Divinity from Seminario Evangélico de Puerto Rico and earned a certificate as a Project Management Professional (PMP®).

Phone: (610) 768-2412
Email: abigail.medina@abhms.org

Program Director of the Nurturing Children Initiative

“Children are a gift to this world and to our churches,” says Rev. Daryn Bunce Stylianopoulos, Program Director of the American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ Nurturing Children Initiative. “I am passionate about creating spaces where children can flourish in a loving, affirming community.”

In this role, Stylianopoulos equips American Baptist congregations with research-based, developmentally appropriate methods to engage children in intergenerational worship and prayer—nurturing their faith, honoring their unique gifts, and fostering meaningful connections across generations. Her work encourages churches to create safe, creative, and inclusive spaces where children and adults learn from one another, deepening their love for Jesus and their understanding of the church’s calling in the world.

Stylianopoulos is a minister in the Boston area, co-founder of The Welcome Table, serves as a cultural advocate for Massachusetts Baptist Multicultural Ministries and is chair of The Centre for Faith, Art and Justice at First Baptist Church in Jamaica Plain. She holds a degree in Music and Anthropology from Wake Forest University and a Master of Divinity from Boston University School of Theology. When not engaged in ministry, she enjoys spending time with family, singing, gardening, ceramics, and CrossFit.

Phone: (610) 768-2098
Email: daryn.stylianopoulos@abhms.org

Program Coordinator for the Nurturing Children Initiative

Phone: (610) 768-2308
Email: autumn.blalock@abhms.org

Program Coordinator for Intercultural Ministries

Phone: (610) 768-2414
Email: tina.harp@abhms.org

Program Coordinator for Latino Ministries

Phone: (610) 768-2107
Email: diego.meneses@abhms.org

Director of Alaska Ministries

As coordinator of Alaska Ministries for American Baptist Home Mission Societies, Dr. Alonzo B. Patterson Jr. oversees mission development and general administration in Alaska. He serves as a support pastor to pastors and works to develop and train new leadership for mission and ministry.

“Inclusive of evangelism and church planting, we have to think differently in Alaska,” Patterson says. “We are working on a small cell group model that would allow several families to worship together regularly without traveling long distances.”

Alaska remains an important mission field for American Baptists, Patterson maintains.

“We welcome the support of churches and individuals,” he says. “Alaska Ministries is committed to hosting missionaries and mission tour groups.”

Phone: (907) 242-4511
Email: alonzo.patterson@abhms.org

Director of the ABHMS Center for Continuous Learning

As director of American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ Center for Continuous Learning (CCL), Rebecca Irwin-Diehl is committed to being a fellow learner, to practicing action-reflection, and to ensuring that all CCL offerings are useful for the strengthening of God’s people, the renewing of minds, and the transforming of God’s world. A practical theologian, she wants learning to have real-world relevance and life-changing application. She is passionate about learning—learning from books and other media, from listening to and interacting with people as individuals and in community, and from immersing herself in hands-on experience. Irwin-Diehl was an editor with Judson Press for more than 20 years, and her new role has continuity with her experience in publishing ministries because she continues to build a platform from which God’s Word may go forth.

Phone: (610) 768-2109
Email: https://abhomemissions.formstack.com/forms/rebecca_irwin_diehl

National Coordinator for Learner Engagement

Jacalyn C. Barnes serves as National Coordinator for Learner Engagement in the ABHMS Center for Continuous Learning. Passionate about expanding theological education that is accessible, culturally relevant, and transformative, she helps design and implement learning experiences that deepen faith and strengthen leadership across diverse contexts.

Before joining ABHMS, Barnes was a project manager at Princeton Theological Seminary, leading digital learning initiatives and mentoring a multicultural team of staff and students. She previously directed the Repentance Project, advancing organizational strategy and experiential learning programs, and has consulted widely for nonprofit and professional associations in the United States and abroad.

Barnes holds a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University, a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, a Master of Arts in International Affairs from American University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. A native of Northern Virginia, she now lives in King of Prussia, Pa.

Phone: (610) 768-2409
Email: jacalyn.barnes@abhms.org

National Coordinator for Learning Initiatives

Shreya Ramachandran serves as national coordinator for learning initiatives at American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ Center for Continuous Learning. In this role, she develops accessible, theologically grounded courses and curricula that equip ministry leaders and strengthen churches, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations nationwide.

“I’m passionate about bridging the gap between the academy and the church,” she says. “Creating continuing education opportunities for ministry leaders through the Center for Continuous Learning allows us to support and empower them in meaningful, lasting ways.”

Ramachandran holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Linguistics from Moody Bible Institute. Prior to joining ABHMS, she was public scholarship editor for the Center for Asian American Christianity at Princeton Theological Seminary. She is a member of the Emerging Leaders Network for Interfaith America. Outside of work, she enjoys painting, working with clay, and walking nature trails.

Phone: (610) 768-2028
Email: shreya.ramachandran@abhms.org

Publisher

As publisher of Judson Press, the Rev. Dr. Cheryl L. Price helps individuals explore, discover and encourage the joy of reading and writing through various topics and writing styles. 

“What excites me are the various channels to share God’s Word through different voices and lenses,” she says. 

Price is well-qualified for this ministry, having been vice president of Content at Urban Ministries Inc., Calumet City, Ill.; and minister on staff at Metropolitan Baptist Church, Washington, D.C.; Mount Zion Baptist Church, Seattle, Wash.; and Lutheran and United Methodist congregations in New York and California. She has authored and co-authored several books.

Price earned a B.A. from American University, Washington, D.C.; an M.Div. from Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, Rochester, N.Y.; and a Ph.D. from the School of Theology at Claremont, Calif.

Phone: (610) 768-2143
Email: cheryl.price@abhms.org

Associate Publisher

As associate publisher for Judson Press, the Rev. Dr. Rachael Lawrence works with the Rev. Dr. Cheryl Price, publisher, to identify and highlight works that are highly relevant to the spiritual and intellectual needs of the faithful, as well as for those who are seeking. Together, they are strategizing to move Judson Press forward into its next 200 years of publishing ministry. “We seek to engage in some of the important, challenging questions of our day in ways that engage a diverse and changing readership,” Lawrence says.

She welcomes this new opportunity to support the publisher’s work of bringing excellent, timely, and thought-provoking materials to the broader church community.

“As ministry changes and adapts to meet the demands of our dynamic world,” she notes, “the printed word remains as vital to supporting the work of the faithful as ever.”

Lawrence has served as senior editor of Judson Press and continues to serve in this capacity in addition to the new duties. As an editor, she seeks to ensure that engaging ideas are expressed clearly and presented professionally. “In the publishing ministry, we have a responsibility to help authors share their ideas with clarity. We also need to be responsive to the needs of the church and community as they seek spiritual sustenance through the printed word,” she says.

Phone: (610) 768-2016
Email: rachael.lawrence@abhms.org

Editor of Journeys, The Secret Place, and Inspirit Press

Rev. Eron Henry discovered his love for books at the age of 12 and has devoted much of his life to writing and editing. Today, he brings that lifelong passion to his role as associate editor at Judson Press. In this position, he serves as editor of Journeys Bible Lessons, The Secret Place devotional, and Emerge Press, an imprint of Judson Press. 

Henry is committed to broadening the reach and relevance of Judson Press. “My goals,” he says, “are to widen our appeal and expand the diversity of voices.”

He holds a Master of Arts in Journalism from Temple University, a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from the University of the West Indies, a Diploma in Ministerial Studies from the United Theological College of the West Indies, and a Certificate in Cybersecurity from Northern Virginia Community College.

Outside of work, Henry enjoys cooking—especially traditional Jamaican cakes and pastries. He’s an avid fan of the English Premier League, though his favorite sport is track and field.

Phone: (610) 768-2257
Email: eron.henry@abhms.org

Publicity Coordinator

Phone: (610) 768-2102
Email: gale.tull@abhms.org

Editorial & Production Coordinator

Phone: (610) 768-2127
Email: lisa.blair@abhms.org

Publishing Coordinator

Phone: (610) 768-2084
Email: katelyn.morgan@abhms.org

Director of the Annual Fund & Major Gifts

As director of the Annual Fund and major gifts for American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS), Monique Sadler-Taylor is excited about using her experience to serve ABHMS’ mission to heal and transform the lives of others and further the work of Jesus Christ.

“Throughout my career, I have searched for work that matters,” she says. “I feel like I have found my purpose and a home in ABHMS.”

In her position, she will find herself partnering with the organization’s chief development officer to expand fundraising efforts, identify new streams of revenue and increase ABHMS’ existing donor support.

Most recently she served as director of development and education for the NASPGHAN Foundation. Before that, she was a major gifts officer for the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation and director of corporate development for the American Diabetes Association. She spent 17 years in the cable industry, first as director of Affiliate Relations with BET Networks, then as director of Corporate Partnerships with CTAM.  

Phone: (610) 768-2410
Email: monique.sadler-taylor@abhms.org

Development Coordinator

Phone: (610) 768-2413
Email: kim.wilkins@abhms.org

Chief Financial Officer/Treasurer

“While salvation is free, ministry costs money.” ~Anonymous

As Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS), Clifton Strain ensures the organization’s financial capacity to meet its missionary and ministry aspirations.

“I love my work at ABHMS, which allows me to leverage my technical skills and continue to develop people while aligning perfectly with my lifelong commitment to community service and kingdom building,” he says.

A married father of three sons, Cliff has spent most of his career as an investment banker and recently served as CFO for a motorsports startup. He has served on several not-for-profit boards, including City Harvest as Vice Chairman and the American Baptist Extension Corporation as Chairman. At his home church, he chairs the Deacon Ministry and Website Committee. Cliff’s community service efforts include helping establish a Freedom School, building a food pantry, funding water wells for a girls’ school in Ghana, and organizing mission trips to Flint, Michigan, New Orleans, Louisiana, and Houston, Texas.

Cliff holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Morehouse College and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Email: clifton.strain@abhms.org

Controller

An opportunity to serve in an environment where colleagues are “striving for personal and spiritual growth” attracted Phil Cook to his role as controller for American Baptist Home Mission Societies. He sees his position as being about more than finance. “It is Kingdom building, spreading the gospel, growing and nurturing young Christian leaders, and helping those in need.”

Outside of work, Cook enjoys spending time with his wife, three sons, and his dog. He is a trustee at his church and roots for Philadelphia sports teams.

Cook is a graduate of Virginia State University, and is completing his master’s degree at West Chester University.

Phone: (610) 768-2468
Email: phillip.cook@abhms.org

Director of Investments

As director of investments for American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS), Gina Haas handles the accounting and administration of the organization’s Common Investment Fund and other investments.

“I am thrilled to put my accounting skills to work in a nonprofit organization,” she says. “I feel fortunate to play a role in the stewardship of ABHMS’ financial resources, which are available to improve people’s lives across the country.”

Haas is no stranger to the nonprofit sector, having worked with endowments at Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. Other roles have included those at Santander Bank and J. Knipper and Co. Inc. In addition to her professional experience, Haas has served as a Sunday school teacher, treasurer and cookie manager of a Girl Scouts of America troop as well as treasurer of a local parent-teacher organization.

Phone: (610) 768-2404
Email: gina.haas@abhms.org

Staff Accountant, AP/Cost Accounting

Phone: (610) 768-2053
Email: jenny.dulude@abhms.org

Senior Accountant

As a Senior Accountant with a degree from Marymount College, Kindra Sloan enjoys the challenging nature and fast pace of finance, problem solving, and data analysis. She chose this field because she loves working with numbers, but she has made it her lifetime career because she loves working with people, too. Kindra’s vision is to build a strong collaboration with colleagues and ensure that her goals support the overall goals of the Finance Department and ABHMS.

When not working, Kindra enjoys spending time with her family and loved ones.

Phone: (610) 768-2388
Email: kindra.sloan@abhms.org

Executive Assistant

In her role as Executive Assistant to the CFO, Brittany Duncan works diligently to ensure maximum operational effectiveness and to connect people, both internally and externally, to the mission of ABHMS. Her education and experience in communications, as well as corporate and nonprofit management, enable her to provide excellent service and coordination. “The call of the ABHMS and its staff to meet the needs of those living on the margins is one that I’m deeply committed to. Doing this work every day is a great blessing and enjoyable challenge for me.”

When she is not at work, Brittany enjoys reading, being active outdoors with her husband and three children, and also serving at the Baptist Church of West Chester, where her husband is the Senior Pastor.

Phone: (610) 768-2465
Email: brittany.duncan@abhms.org

Investment Accountant

As Investment Accountant for American Baptist Home Mission Societies, Chau helps steward an endowment fund that supports daily operations and community-building efforts. He is committed to optimizing investment operations, enhancing processes, and fostering strong relationships with other Baptist organizations to support their financial success.

Chau brings several years of experience in investment operations and management, later transitioning into investment-focused accounting. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Temple University.

Outside of work, he enjoys watching professional tennis and cultivating Carolina Reaper and Ghost peppers with the goal of creating his own seasoning. He also values time with family, friends, and his Chinese Shar-Pei, Lola.

Phone: (610) 768-2368
Email: phu.chau@abhms.org

Staff Accountant, AR/Collections

Phone: (610) 768-2454
Email: michelle.jones@abhms.org

Facilities Coordinator

Phone: (610) 768-2447
Email: david.bolles@abhms.org

Director of Marketing and Communications

As director of Communications and Marketing, Curtis Ramsey-Lucas seeks to tell the story of American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) and its mission to cultivate leaders, equip disciples, and to heal and transform communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

“It is an honor to be engaged in the work of an organization with as rich a history as that of ABHMS,” says Ramsey-Lucas, “and a privilege to have a hand in shaping our current and future direction.”

An award-winning writer, Ramsey-Lucas has been published in The Washington Post, Religion News Service, The Christian Century, Sojourners, Baptist News Global, and Good Faith Media.

Ramsey-Lucas serves on the Disability Advisory Roundtable of the American Association of People with Disabilities, the board of directors of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, and the Religious Liberty and Human Rights commissions of the Baptist World Alliance. He is a member of the Religion Communicators Council and the National Press Club.

Ramsey-Lucas earned a Master of Divinity degree from Andover Newton Theological School and a Bachelor of Arts in Politics from Fairfield University.

Phone: (610) 768-2408
Email: curtis.ramsey-lucas@abhms.org

Graphic Designer

As Graphic Designer for Marketing and Communications, Mr. Oladele A. Barr, a graduate of University of the Arts, has sought places and ways to utilize his God-given creative talents. He says, “Having the opportunity to work for ABHMS allows me to serve in a way that I’ve never served before.” An “unbridled opportunity” to combine his faith with his creativity will allow Oladele to minister to many lives through the call and mission of American Baptist Home Mission Societies. When not engaged in the graphic arts, he enjoys spending time with his daughters, family and loved ones. As a reader, he seeks books that will enrich his mind and enlighten his spirit. Oladele also takes pleasure in a good mystery movie.

Phone: (610) 768-2038
Email: oladele.barr@abhms.org

Communications and Public Relations

As the communications and public relations coordinator within the marketing and communications department of ABHMS, Pete Bickel keeps the organization’s wide array of stakeholders, constituencies, and strategic partners abreast of the many initiatives and activities that ABHMS undertakes to advance its mission.

“My role is to harness the power of storytelling,” says Bickel. “Through compelling words and images delivered across digital and traditional media, I want to inform, engage, and delight audiences in the communities that ABHMS serves.”

Before joining ABHMS, Bickel had founded PebCraft Marketing, Wynnewood, Pa., a boutique marketing consultancy that partners with mission-driven organizations to develop and execute strategies that increase visibility, burnish reputation, and propel sustainable growth in rapidly evolving markets.Bickel earned a Juris Doctor degree at University of California Davis School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Communications, Management Concentration, summa cum laude, from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Phone: (610) 768-2047
Email: peter.bickel@abhms.org

Resource and Sales Associate

Phone: (610) 768-2052
Email: denise.hall@abhms.org

Senior Writer & Editor of The Christian Citizen

As Senior Writer, the Rev. Dr. Anna Piela uses storytelling in fulfilling American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ mission.

“ABHMS’ work is broad and complex,” she says. “My goal is to communicate the extraordinary in what may seem ordinary.”

Through relationships fostered with ABHMS staff and other stakeholders, Anna identifies relevant stories and creates and collaborates on internal and external publications that showcase the importance of ABHMS’ ministries.

An ordained American Baptist minister, Rev. Dr. Piela brings an impressive academic and denominational background to her work. For many years, she taught religious studies in the United Kingdom and researched different aspects of Islamic feminism—a topic on which she published multiple books and articles. After discerning a call to ministry, she studied at Garret Evangelical Theological Seminary and was ordained by the Lake Street Church of Evanston, IL.

Today she serves the ABC Metro Chicago region as a co-Associate Regional Minister, supporting the work of the White and Multicultural Collaborative.

Rev. Dr. Piela earned a Ph.D. from the University of York, U.K.; a master’s degree in Social Research Methods from Open University, U.K.; and a bachelor’s and master’s in Political Science and Journalism from Jagiellonian University, Poland.

When she’s not writing, Anna enjoys spending time outdoors, both in her own backyard and in state or national parks.

Phone: (610) 768-2119
Email: anna.piela@abhms.org

Digial Marketing Coordinator

Miguel Reyes believes in the power of digital media to drive social change and foster community. As digital marketing content coordinator, he oversees social media, website content, and digital campaigns that spotlight the transformative work ABHMS supports in communities nationwide.

“Working in this space allows me to combine my professional expertise with a purpose-driven cause,” Reyes says. “I aim to create content that not only informs, but uplifts and mobilizes people around a shared vision of hope and equity.”

His goals in this role include leading a comprehensive, data-driven digital strategy to expand ABHMS’ online presence, boost engagement across platforms, and increase conversions on key actions such as donations, newsletter subscriptions, and event participation.

Reyes holds a law degree from Universidad Iberoamericana Laguna in Torreón, Coahuila, Mexico. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling the globe, immersing himself in diverse cultures and landscapes. Equally important to him is time with family. “I cherish the moments we share—whether it’s laughter over a cozy meal or connection across the miles.”

Phone: (610) 768-2370
Email: miguel.reyes@abhms.org

Videographer

A passion for storytelling is what brings Micah Shaffer to the newly created position of videographer for ABHMS. He says, “Joining the Communications & Marketing team to tell stories about the work we do here, that people will genuinely connect with, was an opportunity that I considered to be truly special.”

A former gaffer and camera operator for television and film, Micah also has experience in working on multiple advertising campaigns during his career. He holds a degree in communications from Pennsylvania State University.

With the goal of expanding the reach of the work that is done at ABHMS, Micah notes, “For me, the impact that this work has on people’s lives is what gives it meaning. Bringing to life our ministry and philanthropy and putting that out into the world is incredibly fulfilling.”

When he’s not creating magic with his camera, Micah enjoys spending time with family, friends and his dog.

Phone: (610) 768-2091
Email: micah.shaffer@abhms.org

Marketing Operations

Chief Technology & Information Security Officer

With more than 20 years of managing and supporting IT systems and infrastructures—from large scale multi-facility academic medical centers to nonprofit, grassroots organizations—Rev. Saeed Richardson is well-suited to his role.

A renaissance man of sorts, Rev. Richardson is an ordained clergyperson, pastor of 22 years, a former correctional facility chaplain, community organizer and policy advocate, and has worked as a lobbyist, fighting for police reform, racism and opportunities for returning citizens. He is also a self-described “Theo-techno-futurist” and software developer, Rev. Saeed, aka “RevTech,” speaks and instructs on how to engage AI and future technologies, real-life technological implementations, and the moral/ethical use of technology (https://gorevtech.com).

Richardson was most recently Programs and Operations officer for the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference, for which he managed an annual inventory of more than 40 programs, projects and initiatives within the organization’s portfolio, in addition to the technical, digital resources and infrastructure to support that work.

Rev. Richardson earned a Master of Arts in Social Service Administration and Master of Divinity from the University of Chicago, and a BS in Statistics, Physics, and Interdisciplinary Studies from Virginia Tech.

Rev. Saeed Richardson is married to his lovely wife Anne. They celebrate two beautiful children, Jeslyn and Jonathan.

Phone: (610) 768-2467
Email: saeed.richardson@abhms.org

IT Business Analyst & Support Services Associate

As an individual who loves working with computers, engaging with people, and following the Lord’s word, Mary-Anne Walker fits the bill as American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ Information Technology (IT) support assistant.

She seeks to help manage current and new IT systems, assist users in improving daily job-related tasks, make technology a more efficient and effective tool, ensure staff access to IT-related training, and to remain abreast of new technology in today’s ever-changing environment.

She enjoys seeing the results of helping people.

“I love putting ideas together in a way that is common sense and interesting, and having others learn from it,” she notes.

Walker strives, she says, to “give it her all” at work and to treat co-workers will respect and honesty, as instructed in Colossians 3:23-24 (“Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord”) and Galatians 6:10 (“Let us work for the good of all”).

Phone: (610) 768-2474
Email: mary-anne.walker@abhms.org

Director of Human Resources & Liaison to the Board of Directors

Dr. Laura Miraz’s work with American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) is not just a job—it is a ministry. With more than 30 years of ministry and service with the denomination, Miraz says she “serves as a supportive caregiver and servant-leader to employees and leaders. These are the people that God has placed in my professional life—those I am called to care for and serve.”

A member of the leadership team, Miraz serves as associate executive director for ABHMS’ Human Resources Management Services and liaison for ABHMS’ board of directors. Miraz is also the principal for HRMATTERS, a human resources management consulting service for American Baptist national and regional partners. Miraz seeks to ensure a highly-skilled, committed, engaged professional workforce that embraces and exemplifies mission, vision and core values.

Overseeing all aspects of human resources management means Miraz’s responsibilities range from recruitment, retirement, salary and benefits administration to training, development, motivation and performance. An advocate for employee relations, she is committed to providing a “listening ear and a strategic hand.”

Miraz enjoys providing assistance, guidance and leadership for individuals—whether staff or board members—as they seek to fulfill their individual call to ministry and service.

Says Miraz: “This is a caring ministry—a commitment to assist persons to maximize their leadership and service potentials.”

Phone: (610) 768-2051
Email: laura.miraz@abhms.org

General Counsel

Ginger McKnight-Chavers, Esq. practiced corporate law at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett and Weil, Gotshal & Manges in New York City, and was house counsel at Warner-Lambert Company in Morris Plains, NJ. She then served as vice president of legal affairs at Black Entertainment Television before transitioning to the nonprofit sector, where she served as director of legal services at Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts in New York.

McKnight-Chavers is a graduate of Georgetown University and Harvard Law School, and she was a Kathryn Gurfein Writing Fellow at Sarah Lawrence College.

The Dallas, Texas, native is an active member of nonprofit boards, including Black Theatre United, The Writers League of Texas, The Roundabout Theatre Company’s Leadership Council, and the Executive Committee of the Black Arts Council at the Museum of Modern Art. She is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., The Girl Friends, Inc., and the Authors Guild.

McKnight-Chavers is also a published author. Her 2016 debut novel, “In the Heart of Texas,” won a USA Best Book Award for African American Fiction.

As general counsel, McKnight-Chavers is responsible for ensuring that ABHMS complies with laws and regulations while carrying out its business and operations. She will also be a member of the Leadership Team.

Phone: (610) 768-2261
Email: ginger.mcknight-chavers@abhms.org