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Building God’s Community Speaker Bios

Building God's community Women and Girls' conference Speaker bios

Rev. Lauren Parliament is currently serving as Associate Executive Minister for ABC of Nebraska.

Originally from South Dakota, Lauren came to ABC Nebraska with a deep love for the local church and extensive experience in regional, camp, and congregational ministry. She has served most recently with the American Baptist Churches of the Rocky Mountains, where her ministry focused on pastoral care for leaders, camp and youth ministry, discipleship, and collaborative leadership across congregations. Throughout her ministry, Lauren has demonstrated a strong pastoral presence, thoughtful organizational leadership, and a genuine commitment to walking alongside churches and leaders

As Associate Executive Minister, Lauren will support pastors and congregations across Nebraska, help coordinate regional events and leadership development opportunities, strengthen our partnership with Moses Merrill Camp and Conference Center, and represent ABC Nebraska through preaching, presence, and relationship-building. Her ministry is rooted in pastoral care, discipleship, and collaborative leadership, with a deep commitment to walking alongside churches as they live out God’s call in their local contexts.

Lauren holds a Master of Divinity from Denver Seminary, with a focus in pastoral care and counseling, and undergraduate degrees in sociology and interdisciplinary theology and communications from the University of Sioux Falls. She has been recognized for excellence in preaching and pastoral care and has completed Clinical Pastoral Education.

Lauren is energized by meaningful conversations, creative ministry, and building strong teams. She enjoys campfires, storytelling, and finding joy in everyday moments of connection and community.

Rev. Armstrong, Executive Director of American Baptist Women’s Ministries, representing visionary leadership and faith-based empowerment for women and girls.

Rev. LaThelma (LT) Armstrong is an incredibly talented, and spiritually filled individual. A naturally creative spirit, she is focused on using her anointing in music ministry to challenge and transcend normative practices and artificial barriers that make the Christian worship experience exclusive and stagnate. For LaThelma, songs are her sermons. LaThelma feels called to challenge tradition and proactively seek to build solidarity with women and those we have been categorized as the “other”. LaThelma obtained her Masters of Divinity and Christian education at Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, NJ. In January 2018, she was ordained into the global community of American Baptist Churches USA. Rev. Armstrong began as Executive Director of ABWM in July 2024, bringing a breath of experience to the role. Rev. LT Armstrong is dedicated to the spiritual, educational, and social growth of women and children, particularly girls. Her leadership focuses on innovative programming, strategic partnerships, and fostering a community where women and children can thrive. She is committed to advancing ABWM’s mission, ensuring that every woman and child is empowered through faith to advance beyond any obstacles or barriers they face.

Rev. Dr. Valerie Dupree, a native of Jersey City, NJ, is deeply passionate about God and committed to the spiritual growth and empowerment of others.
She earned her Doctor of Divinity from Liberty University, completing her doctoral thesis entitled “Cathedral International Global Youth (CIGY): Building a Comprehensive Online Youth Ministry for Teenagers Ages 13–19.” She also holds a Master of Divinity from New Brunswick Theological Seminary, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Seton Hall University, and a Bachelor’s degree from William Paterson University.
In 2019, Dr. Dupree joined Cathedral International, and in February 2022, she was appointed to the staff as Minister of Youth, where she guides, nurtures, and leads children and teenagers in their spiritual growth under the leadership of Bishop Donald Hilliard, Jr. On November 9, 2025, she was officially ordained as a Youth Pastor at Cathedral International through the American Baptist Churches of New Jersey.
Prior to her ministry at Cathedral International, Dr. Dupree completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education at Robert Wood Johnson University, serving as a Chaplain and strengthening her pastoral care and ministry skills.
She was licensed to the ministry in 2014 at Monumental Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Joseph L. Jones, Sr. There, she co-founded and led the Monumental Youth Fellowship Organization (M.Y.F.O.), developing programs to engage, mentor, and inspire youth.
Dr. Dupree is also an entrepreneur and visionary leader. She is the CEO and Founder of the Youth Enrichment Center, Valerie Tours & Travel, LLC, Val Renee Clothing & Accessories, and Single ’Til Marriage. She serves the wider Baptist community as the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. North-East Region Co-Regional Director and as Youth Director of the General Baptist Convention of New Jersey, impacting youth across the region.
A two-time international author, Dr. Dupree has written Overcoming Obstacles and Single ’Til Marriage: A Narrative & Resource for Self-Love and Reflection. She has also traveled to 57 countries abroad to date, bringing a global perspective to her ministry, leadership, and teaching. Driven by the call God has placed on her life, she continues to serve, lead, and inspire others to walk boldly in their faith and purpose globally.
She lives according to her favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13 (NKJV): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Minister Kabanya Vinson, a gifted musician, singer, songwriter, producer, composer, and arranger from Albany, Georgia, began playing piano at age 3 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Georgia. She has worked with renowned artists like Aretha Franklin and Michael McDonald and was influenced by her aunt, Dr. Bernice Reagon, founder of “Sweet Honey in the Rock.” Her debut album, “TheMOSAIC,” features the single “Consume Me.” With over 40 years in music ministry, Kabanya has served in various capacities, directed international choral tours, and worked at Ray of Hope Christian Church and Shiloh Baptist Church. A proud mother of four, she is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Virginia Union University.

Minister Carolyn “Shasta” Baxter is a passionate servant of God whose ministry combines biblical teaching, evangelism, mentorship, community outreach, and the arts to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Following a life-changing encounter with Christ, she dedicated her creative gifts to ministry, using drama, comedy, poetry, music, and public speaking to encourage, inspire, and transform lives. Her ministry has reached churches, conferences, schools, correctional facilities, and community organizations on local, regional, and national platforms.

Known for her memorable Gospel character, “Lucille the Baglady,” Minister Baxter blends humor with powerful biblical truths that challenge and uplift audiences. She has been featured by American Baptist Women’s Ministries, including Vital Woman magazine, and ministered at the American Baptist Women and Girls Conferences in Green Lake, Wisconsin, for four consecutive years. She has also served as a facilitator, mentor, and biblical instructor at the American Baptist National Gathering of Youth, The Encounter, helping equip leaders and minister to hundreds of young people.

Minister Baxter has pursued biblical studies at New Brunswick Theological Seminary and Eastern Bible Institute and remains deeply committed to Christian education, youth development, and community outreach. She currently serves at First Baptist Church of Hillside under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Christopher Michael Jones, faithfully using her gifts to glorify God and encourage others to experience His transforming love through both word and deed. She provides performing arts workshops and creative educational programs designed to help people overcome barriers to creative expression and personal growth.

Rev. Ruth Giraldo is a pastor, spiritual director, and emerging voice in the movement of faith-centered inner healing for women. With a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and advanced training in spiritual formation, pastoral leadership, and program development, she has devoted her life to helping people encounter God’s restoring power in the places where life has wounded them.

Known for her compassionate yet prophetic voice, Ruth speaks and teaches on healing from childhood trauma, reclaiming one’s identity, and breaking free from the silent narratives that keep women small. Her work invites women to rediscover the beauty God can bring out of broken places and to courageously reclaim the voice they were always meant to carry.

Whether through preaching, spiritual direction, mentoring, or writing, Ruth creates sacred spaces where faith, truth, and restoration meet. Her upcoming book explores how early wounds, shame, and suppressed voices can be transformed into strength, purpose, and spiritual authority.

In addition to her ministry and writing, Ruth is also a trained chef and creative entrepreneur who believes hospitality and creativity are powerful pathways to healing and community.

Through her teaching and leadership, Ruth continues to empower women to rise, heal, and walk confidently in the life God originally designed for them.

Rev. Sabrina Uzodinma is originally from Kentucky. Ordained in the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, she graduated from BSK Theological Seminary (formerly Baptist Seminary of Kentucky) with a Master of Divinity in 2019. She has served churches in ABCNYS and ABCNJ as senior pastor, interim and transitional pastor. She likes to preach thought-provoking and challenging sermons cradled in the message of God’s perfect and unquestionable love. A lover of books, jigsaw puzzles, movie marathons, hiking and the outdoors, she currently resides in Scotch Plains, NJ with her husband Chimezie, son Nze, and beagle baby Penny. 

Minister D’aja McIntyre is an anointed young preacher and singer who has been preaching and teaching the Gospel since the tender age of 13 and singing all her life. She is a Class of 2019 Lawrence Central High School graduate in Indianapolis, IN. Receiving a full-ride scholarship, she matriculated at the University of Indianapolis. She later transferred to North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro, NC, where she graduated Spring Class of 2023. Minister D’aja finished with Honors graduating Magna Cum Laude with her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. On a Full Scholarship pursuing her Master’s In Divinity, Minister D’aja studied at Princeton Theological Seminary in Princeton, New Jersey. She graduated in the Spring of 2026.

Minister D’aja serves as the Minister to Teens at the Shiloh Baptist Church Plainfield, under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Danielle L. Brown.
Minister D’aja is the middle child of six siblings. She enjoys traveling, music, and simply “living her best life!”
Minister D’aja has a heart to love and serve God’s people. She is a very strong believer in her faith in Jesus Christ and believes that she was set apart to set the standard for Holiness in this generation.
Above all, Minister D’aja believes that God will continue to elevate her as long as she remains humble and continues to serve God’s people.
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Karla Rivera Avilés, Director of Programs at American Baptist Women’s Ministries, smiling joyfully and showcasing faith-led leadership for women and girls.

Karla Rivera Avilés
Director of Programs

Karla Rivera Avilés serves as Director of Programs for American Baptist Women’s Ministries. A devoted Puerto Rican attorney with 18 years of experience, she has centered her career on advocating for survivors of domestic violence and sexual aggression. Her work reflects a strong commitment to justice, faith, and community service. Karla brings valuable experience from ecumenical work in Puerto Rico and Peru, particularly in championing the rights of women and children. At ABWM, she is dedicated to creating programs that empower women and girls to thrive through faith and courage.

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Portrait of Erin Davis, Director of Marketing at American Baptist Women’s Ministries, smiling confidently and representing empowered Christian women in leadership.

Erin Davis Marketing & Communications Director

Erin Davis began her journey at ABWM as a social media ambassador and now serves as the Marketing and Communications Director. With over 15 years of experience in the marketing industry, Erin brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Her work at ABWM focuses on developing effective communication strategies, enhancing the organization’s visibility, and engaging with the community through innovative marketing efforts.

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Rev. Dr. Christine Smith of American Baptist Women’s Ministries, wearing pearls and smiling, symbolizing Christian leadership, wisdom, and women’s empowerment through faith.

Rev. Dr. Christine Smith
Associate Executive Director

Rev. Dr. Christine A. Smith begins as Director of the Rudd Empowerment Center in October 2024, bringing extensive experience in leadership development, ministry, and advocacy. Rev. Dr. Smith is passionate about empowering women in ministry and providing them with the tools and resources to excel in their calling. Her leadership at the Rudd Empowerment Center focuses on advancing education, mentorship, and advocacy initiatives that support women both within and beyond the faith community. Committed to ABWM’s mission, she works to elevate the voices of women and girls globally, fostering an environment where their leadership can thrive.

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Rev. Armstrong, Executive Director of American Baptist Women’s Ministries, representing visionary leadership and faith-based empowerment for women and girls.

Rev. LaThelma Armstrong
Executive Director

Reverend LT Armstrong began as Executive Director of ABWM in July 2024, bringing a breath of experience to the role. Rev. LT Armstrong is dedicated to the spiritual, educational, and social growth of women and children, particularly girls. Her leadership focuses on innovative programming, strategic partnerships, and fostering a community where women and children can thrive. She is committed to advancing ABWM’s mission, ensuring that every woman and child is empowered through faith to advance beyond any obstacles or barriers they face.

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Rev. Dr. Cassandra Foster, Outreach Coordinator at American Baptist Women’s Ministries, modeling strength, service, and Christian leadership.

Rev. Dr. Cassandra Foster
Outreach Coordinator

Rev. Dr. Cassandra Foster began her journey at ABWM in 2022 as a content creator. In her new role as Outreach Coordinator, she brings her expertise and passion for connecting with and empowering communities. Reverend Cassandra focuses on building outreach strategies, representing ABWM at various conferences, and engaging women and girls in the organization’s mission. Her work ensures that every woman and child can connect, grow, thrive, and find a sense of belonging within the ABWM community. We invite you to connect with Reverend Cassandra to learn more about ABWM’s initiatives and explore ways to get involved. She is eager to engage with and support our community.

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Lianne Quaynor — Program Coordinator

Lianne Quaynor
Program Coordinator

Lianne Quaynor began as our Program Coordinator in October 2024 focused on developing and coordinating programming to promote human rights, women’s empowerment and faith based advocacy at American Baptist Women’s Ministries. She brings experience working on global issues regarding women and girls rights and human rights for various non-profits and international organizations as well as with youth ministry in making spaces of faith more inclusive and intergenerational. She is passionate about education, volunteering, and social justice but most importantly being able to empower, elevate and equip women and girls to be leaders in making their dreams and aspirations a reality and the world a better place.