NBA Welcomes Four New Trustees and Celebrates the Leadership of Outgoing Members in St. Louis

by NBA Cares

The Board of Trustees of the National Benevolent Association of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) met June 8–10, 2023, at Union Avenue Christian Church in Saint Louis, Missouri.

The meeting opened with dinner on Thursday evening, including introductions, announcements of new NBA staff members, and a presentation from Mark D. Anderson, NBA President & CEO. The President’s report highlighted upcoming programmatic initiatives and featured the bold visions and stories of NBA’s health and social service ministry partners. “As NBA, we believe that empowered, sustained leaders and innovative, effective social enterprises lead us in our bold vision toward liberated communities and a more just world,” Anderson said.

As part of the board meeting, Disciples General Minister and President, Rev. Terri Hord Owens, offered an overview of recent developments and strategic initiatives of the denomination as well as a preview of business items at the upcoming General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The Trustees received a clean audit of NBA’s consolidated financials from the auditing firm, FORVIS. The committees of the NBA Board also had time to meet and conduct work together.

The Board of Trustees offered a celebration of the leadership and compassionate work of outgoing board members Rev. Jabari Butler and Rev. Dr. Darren Phelps. The Board also voted to affirm and welcome newly elected board members, Rev. Brian T. Moore of Euclid, Ohio, Dr. Xochitl Alvizo of Los Angeles, California, and Rev. Jorge ‘Joey’ Cotto of Miami, Florida, and Rev. Janetta Cravens of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

“As the Governance Committee Chair, it is always exciting to meet new board members in person as they become more than a name or a bio,” said Lisa Buday. “As we meet for the first time, it becomes clear that they bring talent, skills, and compassion to our board. Welcome to our new NBA Trustees!”

The next meetings of the NBA Board of Trustees are August 17, 2023 (virtual), and November 9–11, 2023 (in-person).

Learn more about out Board of Trustees and the work they do at NBAcares.org/Trustees.