American Baptist Women’s Ministries logo with purple text and a globe integrated into the letter 'o' in Women’s

Violet Rudd, executive director 1951-1976 (d)

Ms. Violet E. Rudd was elected the Administrative Secretary of American Baptist Women in 1951 and the Executive Director in 1976. She was a forward-thinking and adaptive leader during the emergence of American Baptist Women’s Ministries (ABWM). Ms. Rudd was deeply committed to equipping the Women of God for life on mission. During her time of leadership from 1951-1976, ABWM pursued that call through the institution of a magazine geared towards equipping women for a life on mission, establishing annual conferences, and cultivating a strong network of well-trained female leaders at every level.

Throughout her time in leadership at ABWM, Violet Rudd was committed to conversing with regional and state leaders and American Baptist women about their needs, struggles, and ministries so that ABWM could best foster the gifts and meet the needs of American Baptist women. This focus was institutionally seen in the leadership training program instituted by the national board to cultivate the giftings of American Baptist women. This program was a training ground that led many participants to become state and regional presidents.

Violet E. Rudd was sensitive and responsive to the social realities of her time. She led ABWM to think critically and respond Biblically and Theologically to questions of racism, poverty, and segregation during the Civil Rights Movement and pushed for full racial integration in women’s society. Institutionally, Ms. Rudd made space for all women’s voices by advocating for women of color to serve in leadership on the board. As society considered topics of feminism and the role of women in society, ABWM remained responsive and continued to think together critically and respond Biblically and Theologically. Their responses included bringing influential female Biblical scholars like Phyliss Tribble to share their scholarship with American Baptist women at conferences.

The service and ministry of Violet E. Rudd instituted a strong foundation from which ABWM continues to build, grow, and lead. We are proud to continue developing leadership, fostering community, and responding to the changing world with relevant, Christ-centered advocacy and awareness.

Violet Rudd, executive director for ABWM 1951-1976

DONATE TO THE VIOLET CIRLCE

The Violet Circle honors her legacy of advocacy, equity, and unwavering commitment to empowering women.  As a part of the wider ABWM network, the Violet Circle fosters fellowship, spiritual growth, and service opportunities for women of all ages and backgrounds. 

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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.