NBA Board of Trustees June Meeting Emphasizes Dedication to Equity

by Kristy Vaughan

The Board of Trustees of the National Benevolent Association of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) met June 6th – 8th, 2024 at Union Avenue Christian Church in St. Louis, Missouri. 

The meeting opened with dinner on Thursday evening, including introductions and a presentation from Mark D. Anderson, NBA President & CEO. The President’s report highlighted current and upcoming programmatic initiatives.  “The power of our ministries relies in large part on the strength of the people in which the NBA brings together – community and congregational leaders who participate in our programs, NBA staff and our Board of Trustees,” states Anderson. “I continuously give thanks for the leadership of our board in setting strategic vision and implementing strong financial and governing structures.”  

During this session, the Board of Trustees amended the bylaws to emphasize the NBA’s dedication to equity and discussed the ongoing strategic asset management initiative. The Strategic Asset Management (SAM) Process is an equity-centered learning process that will lead to recommendations regarding how NBA can mobilize our assets for the greatest impact both today and for the long term.  

“Every time the NBA Staff and Board push ourselves to go beyond our comfort zones in order to serve the needs of God’s people, I am reminded that God is moving in powerful ways in the Church,” shares Jacquelyn Foster, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “NBA is stepping out in bold leadership to proclaim that the ministry of the Church is compassion, care, and justice.” 

In addition, the Trustees honored four outgoing Board members – Rev. Orlando Scott, Rev. Richie Sanchez, Wanda Scott, and Rev. Elaine Sanford.  Two new members were inducted – Rev. Kathryn Perry, Executive Director of the Bluegrass Care Navigators in Lexington, Kentucky; and Rev. Allen Harris, Regional Pastor and President for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Ohio.  

The approved officers of the Board are: 

 The Board of Trustees will meet again this year on August 22nd and November 7-9th.