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American Baptist Women’s Ministries Launches Groundbreaking Rudd Empowerment Center and Appoints Rev. Dr. Christine A. Smith as Inaugural Director

VALLEY FORGE, PA – American Baptist Women’s Ministries (ABWM) proudly announces the launch of the Rudd Empowerment Center, an innovative hub dedicated to advancing leadership, education, and advocacy for women and girls worldwide. Named after ABWM’s first Executive Director, Ms. Violet E. Rudd, the Center represents a bold step forward in addressing the critical issues facing women today. With a focus on leadership development, rigorous research, and impactful advocacy, the Rudd Empowerment Center will serve as a beacon for change, transforming the future for women in ministry and beyond.

In tandem with this historic launch, ABWM is excited to appoint Rev. Dr. Christine A. Smith as the Center’s inaugural Director, effective October 1, 2024. Rev. Dr. Smith brings a wealth of leadership experience and an unwavering commitment to empowering women in ministry. Her expertise, particularly in advocacy and leadership development, aligns seamlessly with the Center’s mission to nurture and equip women for leadership roles on a global scale. In her new role, Rev. Dr. Smith will collaborate closely with Rev. LaThelma Yenn-Batah, ABWM Executive Director, to elevate the Center as a premier resource for research, education, and advocacy, both domestically and internationally.

“Rev. Dr. Smith has been a trailblazer within ABWM, and we are thrilled to have her leading this groundbreaking initiative,” said Rev. LaThelma Yenn-Batah. “Her passion for amplifying the voices of women and advancing their leadership in ministry makes her the perfect leader to guide the Rudd Empowerment Center in its mission to empower women and girls across the globe.”

About the Rudd Empowerment Center

Mission and Vision:

The Rudd Empowerment Center builds on ABWM’s legacy, offering expanded opportunities for leadership, mentorship, and education. Its programs, which include leadership retreats, ministry grants, pastoral care workshops, and mentorship initiatives, are designed to support women in ministry as they navigate unique challenges and advance in their leadership journeys. The Center’s offerings will empower women with the resources, networks, and confidence they need to thrive.

Global and Cross-Denominational Reach:

With a commitment to fostering cross-denominational and interfaith collaboration, the Rudd Empowerment Center will extend ABWM’s influence beyond its traditional community. This broader, global approach positions ABWM as a pivotal voice in global conversations on women’s leadership and empowerment, advocating for the full inclusion of women in every sphere of leadership.

Professional Development and Advocacy:

Through strategic partnerships with academic institutions, the Center will offer cutting-edge training and certification programs to equip women with the skills they need to excel. Its robust advocacy efforts will amplify the voices of women within and beyond the faith community, ensuring they are heard, valued, and celebrated as leaders in their fields.

A Pivotal Moment for ABWM

The launch of the Rudd Empowerment Center marks a transformative milestone in ABWM’s journey, expanding its influence beyond denominational boundaries and positioning it as a thought leader in the global movement for women’s empowerment. For over 70 years, ABWM has been a catalyst for women discerning their call to ministry, and the Rudd Empowerment Center will now extend that legacy to an even wider audience.

“It is time for us to focus not only on supporting women in ministry but on expanding our reach to impact the broader global community of women leaders,” said Rev. LaThelma Yenn-Batah. “The Rudd Empowerment Center is a transformative initiative that will elevate the voices of women who have long shaped our faith and communities.”