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RUDd EMPOWERMENT CENTER

Welcome to the Rudd Empowerment Center information page!
We are thrilled to launch this new initiative of American Baptist Women’s Ministries, which is focused on advocacy,
empowerment, and leadership development for women and girls.

A COMMUNITY OF PARTNERS

Rev. Dr. Chris Smith, Director, Rudd Empowerment Center

Through tangible, practical, and relevant resources, the Rudd Empowerment Center will offer women and their families a community of caring partners, who will strategically accompany them as they pursue healthy, productive, and holistic paths forward. Below we provide the historical basis for the “REC,” as well as our mission, vision, and programming focus. Stay tuned for upcoming events and opportunities to engage!
We look forward to all that the Lord will bring to pass through our work together!
Blessings and Peace,

Rev. Dr. Chris Smith,
Director, Rudd Empowerment Center Contact Rev. Dr. Chris Smith

Ms. Violet E. Rudd

Historical Background

Ms. Violet E. Rudd, serving as the Administrative Secretary in 1951 and later as the Executive Director in 1976, was a visionary leader during the formative years of American Baptist Women’s Ministries. She was dedicated to preparing women for mission work and throughout her leadership tenure from 1951-1976, ABWM launched a magazine, organized annual conferences, and fostered a network of skilled female leaders at all levels.  Learn more about Ms. Rudd

designed to support women

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 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.

full inclusion of women

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.

designed to support women

Professional Development & 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 women’s voices within and beyond the faith community, ensuring they are heard, valued, and celebrated as leaders in their fields.

Articles

Read "Welcoming the Stranger: How Are We Doing?" Featured in the Christian Citizen.

How are we answering Christ’s call to radical hospitality in our lives and communities? This question lies at the heart of our 2024 mission focus, Welcoming the Stranger.
To help us reflect and act on this sacred calling, we encourage you to read a thought-provoking article featured in the Christian Citizen. Written by Rev. Christine A. Smith, Ph.D., Director of the Rudd Empowerment Center, the article, “Welcoming the Stranger: How Are We Doing?”, offers valuable insights into what it truly means to open our hearts and arms to those in need of Christ-like love and care.
This piece invites us to explore deeper connections, share compassion, and live out hospitality in meaningful ways. Read Article.

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Karla Rivera Avilés

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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Erin-Davis-Director-of-Marketing

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
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. 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 Yenn-Batah 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

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.