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Meet Our Executive Coordinator
The Rev. Dr. Paul Baxley was unanimously elected as the fourth executive coordinator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship in January 2019. He frequently preaches and teaches across the 35-year-old Fellowship as he leads this diverse community that includes nearly 1,400 congregations, thousands of individuals, 19 state and regional organizations, 800-plus chaplains and pastoral counselors, dozens of theological education and ministry partners, and 30-plus field personnel serving in 19 countries.
Previously, Paul served as senior minister of First Baptist Church in Athens, Ga., since 2010. A native of Winston-Salem, N.C., he has also held pastorates and ministry positions in North Carolina and Virginia and is a former member of the CBF Governing Board. During his two-terms on the CBF Governing Board from 2013-2017, Paul chaired an ad hoc committee that worked for 18 months to develop a comprehensive plan for Global Missions committed to the long-term presence of CBF field personnel around the world.
Paul is a graduate of Wake Forest University (Bachelor of Arts – Religion, 1991), Duke Divinity School (Master of Theological Studies, 1996) and Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond (Doctor of Ministry, 2003). He has held a variety of leadership roles on the boards of Mercer University’s McAfee School of Theology, the Baptist House of Studies of Duke Divinity School and the Center for Congregational Health.
Paul and his wife, Jennifer, a licensed physical therapist, have four children: Olivia, Maria and twins Caroline and Matthew. He enjoys reading, especially history, fiction and biography books and cheers for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons and the Georgia Bulldogs.
If you’ve got any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. Email us at fellowship@cbf.net or call 800.352.8741.
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Kelly gives leadership to support clergy through an ecosystem that includes the CBF Fellows, Peer Learning Groups, and our Thriving in Ministry grant initiative. She is passionate about resourcing clergy and offering a holistic approach to wellness so that they can better lead their congregations to expand their capacity for creativity and renewal.
Kelly hopes to be a resource to pastors and churches as they think critically about the changing landscape of pastoral ministry, calling, and wholeness. She is excited about serving Cooperative Baptists by sharing issues pertinent to pastoral wellbeing and helping pastors develop the traits of thriving in ministry.
Kelly comes to CBF with a wealth of experience. She gained her BA in Accounting from Meredith College and her M. Div. in Christian Education from Campbell University Divinity School. She has spent the past five years working in the Center for Congregational Resources at Samford University and working with the Lilly Endowment’s Called to Lives of Meaning and Purpose initiative. She also served as associate pastor in Edenton, NC for six years giving her keen insight into the life of a staff minister.
Kelly enjoys adventuring with her husband and son, jogging, and learning her new craft of cross-stitching. She also enjoys some good 90’s-00’s hip hop and R&B music!
She joined the CBF staff in March 2023.
Please ask me about: Clergy professional development opportunities
kadams@cbf.net
(770) 220-1656
Rev. Laura Ayala serves as the Coordinator of Global Missions for CBF, where she oversees a diverse range of impactful ministries, including Field Ministries, Innovative and Engagement Ministries, Chaplaincy and Pastoral Counseling Ministries, and Disaster Response.
With a heart deeply committed to God’s mission, Rev. Ayala works to empower churches and individuals to embrace their role in transforming lives both locally and globally.
Her mission is clear: to invite, equip and inspire churches with the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to make a difference in Jesus’ name.
Whether by providing critical information to enhance missional work, encouraging missions’ committees to engage directly, or mobilizing individuals to pray, go, and give, Rev. Ayala is devoted to seeing God’s transformational power at work. She believes in the life-changing impact of CBF Global Missions and is passionate about fostering a spirit of collaboration and action among churches and mission partners.
For nine years, she faithfully served as pastor of First Baptist Church of Rio Piedras in San Juan, Puerto Rico, a vibrant ministry that shaped her vision for missions and community engagement.
She holds a Master of Arts’ degree in Religion and Society from Drew University and an MBA from Universidad del Turabo in Puerto Rico. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Theology from Interamerican University in San Juan.
Beyond her professional achievements,
Rev. Ayala is a person of deep faith and joy. She finds renewal in nature and good coffee. She is an enthusiastic fan of the Boston Red Sox.
She joined CBF in February 2023.
Ask me about: Missions impact and how you may blessed by joining us.
layala@cbf.net
(770) 220-1635
Lynn Brinkley serves as the PAK Field Ministry Coordinator working to build relationships with Black clergy and connect them to CBF for fellowship, partnership, and justice work. She is passionate about fostering a beloved community, preaching, and advocating for the marginalized and oppressed.
Lynn has a Bachelors of Arts degree from North Carolina State University, a Masters in Criminal Justice from the University of Tennessee, a Masters of Divinity from Campbell Divinity School, a Doctorate of Ministry from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Howard University School of Divinity. Lynn previously served for 13 years as -Director of Church, Alumni, and Student Relations at Campbell Univ. Divinity School, has held leadership roles with the General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina and served as the associate director with Baptist Women in Ministry.
During her free time, Lynn can be found traveling, spending time at the gym or spa, or watching collegiate and professional basketball and football games.
Ask me about: PAK’s (Pan African Koinonia) work with Black Churches and Leaders and Pulpit Supply
lbrinkley@cbf.net
(770) 220-1617
Leslie works with the CBF Foundation to streamline and optimize efficiencies for the Foundation and CBF churches.
Leslie loves aligning tasks and teams to simplify projects, and spends time synthesizing processes so that churches have a turn-key solution for problems that take too much of their time, making it easier for individuals to manage their generosity.
Formerly a director of operations for a digital marketing agency, Leslie is also an ordained minister and most recently served as the Minister to Families at Peachtree Baptist Church, a CBF congregation in Atlanta, Ga. She is a graduate of Reinhardt University, where she received a B.S. in Sociology, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary where she received an M.A. in Christian Education, and Kellogg School of Management where she received a Certificate in Digital Marketing Strategies.
In her free time, Leslie loves to paddle board, play European board games, and watch the Rose family’s antics on Schitt’s Creek.
She joined the staff in August 2021.
Ask me about: Endowment Funds, Wills, Legacy Giving and Giving Tuesday
lbrogdon@cbf.net
(770) 220-1648
Faith Bynoe serves as the Coordinator Baptist Fellowship of the Northeast. She supports the members of the Northeast as they co-create the Beloved Community with impactful networks, programming and partnerships. Faith is passionate about ensuring that people are well spiritually and emotionally. She is working to be innovative and connect the community to resources that help them make their ideas a reality.
Faith studied at the University of Florida, has a Bachelor of Arts from Long Island University, a Master of Divinity from Howard University School of Divinity and an Executive Non-Profit Management Certificate from Georgetown University.
In her free time, Faith enjoys hiking, ariel yoga and cheering on the University of Florida.
fbynoe@cbf.net
(770) 706-8825
Shauw Chin provides the overall leadership and management of the work of the CBF Foundation and CBF’s fund development strategies.
Shauw Chin is passionate about walking alongside churches and individuals to help them best use God’s resources to fund the work of the Great Commission and the Greatest Commandment now and into the future. In her role leading the CBF Foundation, she helps churches to plan and manage permanent financial support for their ministries and needs, and also seeks to equip congregations to cultivate legacy gifts among their members. With deep Baptist roots, Shauw Chin came to faith as a result of the work of Baptist missionaries in Singapore. An experienced nonprofit leader and social worker, she is a graduate of Baylor University and the Carver School of Social Work (Master of Church Social Work).
Shauw Chin describes herself as a “huge foodie” and loves to travel, cook and watch a good movie (preferably one that makes her laugh or takes her to a different world).
She joined the staff in March 2020.
Ask me about: How to leave a legacy gift for CBF and your church and how to establish an endowment fund for your church
scapps@cbf.net
(770) 220-1622
LaToya is responsible for the overall administration, coordination and evaluation of the human resource function for CBF.
With a Master’s of Business Administration and as a certified Human Resources Professional, LaToya is passionate about helping to fulfill to the needs of CBF staff and constituents in her role. She is always striving to lead and direct the routine functions of the Human Resources (HR) area in a manner that promotes collaboration and quality relationships.
LaToya enjoys baking (especially cobbler) and watching movies, as well as traveling to the beach with friends and family.
She joined the CBF staff in March 2015.
Ask me about: How we attract, support and retain exceptional talent.
lcross1@cbf.net
(770) 220-1630
Alisha focuses on connecting states and regions in hosting events for Young Baptists across our Fellowship.
Alisha is most energized by supporting the collaborative work of bringing together congregations across states and regions to plan and host meaningful, spiritually transformational gatherings. Let’s plan something.
Alisha joined the CBF staff in 2024.
Ask me about: how we can collaborate in planning an event to benefit and encourage Young Baptists in your area.
Sharon works with congregations, states and regions to develop and enhance advocacy efforts within their communities. She is passionate about working towards justice for all neighbors, particularly racial justice. She aims to learn what churches are already doing to love their neighbor and further expand those efforts. Sharon hopes to encourage churches to see their role in advocacy and help them engage in justice work in their communities.
She serves CBF by learning what churches, states and regions are doing in advocacy and connecting them. Sharon will discover the issues impacting communities to help educate and develop means for CBF to advocate for the most vulnerable neighbors. Sharon will create and implement the mobilization strategy for CBF congregations, allowing us to use our collective voice on various issues impacting our communities. She will create advocacy experiences to help our congregations learn and practice advocacy, such as Advocacy in Action.
Sharon previously worked in Kentucky and Texas advocating for public education and payday lending reform.
She is a graduate of Baylor University with a BA in psychology and her M.Div. from Southwestern Baptist Theology Seminary.
She enjoys travel, dinner with friends and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys, Baylor Bear and Texas Rangers.
Sharon joined the CBF staff in December 2023.
Ask me about: Advocacy in Action and the Advocacy Network
sfelton@cbf.net
(770) 220-1625
Charlotte Fonjungo serves as CBF’s staff accountant, supporting financial and administrative operations to ensure transactions and records are accurate and up to date. She is passionate about playing a role in CBF’s mission, keeping internal processes running smoothly so colleagues can focus on serving their communities. Charlotte studied accounting at Georgia College and State University. She likes to read, Mission to Kala by Mongo Beti is her favorite book, and bike in her free time.
Charlotte joined the CBF staff in March 2026.
Brian gives attention to the work of the Fellowship and its partnerships to create and curate resources for congregations, and provides oversight to how CBF creates thriving congregations and a culture of inviting and equipping leaders.
With three decades of experience related to congregations as staff and support, he combines his theological, leadership and community engagement education with the practical experience of serving congregations, and he is most passionate about seeing individuals and congregations transform their communities through the invitation God has given them to join in God’s work. A key way Brian serves churches is through a ministry that builds a platform for congregations to equip one another for the unique challenges and opportunities of being church in their respective contexts.
Brian received his BA in Religion and Christian Ministries from Campbell University, a Master of Religious Education from Duke University Divinity School and a Doctorate in Education Leadership from the University of North Carolina – Charlotte. In his free time, he enjoys stand-up paddleboarding, reading, walking his dog Caicos with his wife Denise, traveling, live music, and watching far too many sports and baking shows.
Brian joined the CBF staff in July 2022.
Ask me about: Our thriving initiatives and identifying your community’s capitals
bforeman@cbf.net
(770) 220-1659
If we are trying to re-think something or start something, Adam helps CBF ask questions, gather data, synthesize information and build plans for the organizations future impact.
Adam enjoys running, reading and a variety of musical styles from jazz to folk to hip-hop — tastes that shift depending on what he’s up to at the time, but he’s always up for something new.
He joined the staff in March 2019.
Ask me about: Partnerships, decision making and strategic planning
agranger@cbf.net
(770) 220-1623
Carrie collaborates with the CBF staff, state and regional organizations, churches, and partners, to coordinate experiences, including events and particularly General Assembly, with an eye toward delivering compelling opportunities that invite members of our Fellowship into relationships of mutual equipping as we seek God’s transformation in the world.
With a background in theatre arts and a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology at Emory University, Carrie brings a unique and collaborative spirit alongside theological language. Her passion is to reach Cooperative Baptists where they are through CBF events and experiences—inviting them deeper into the CBF family, equipping them through engaging conversations and resources, and transforming together as we continue to be led by the Holy Spirit and center ourselves in Christ’s call to be the church that welcomes all.
When Carrie isn’t planning experiences for CBF, she enjoys directing and acting in community theatre productions, working as a travel advisor, watching Gilmore Girls (again!) and eating fun snacks at Walt Disney World!
She joined the CBF staff in October of 2014.
Ask me about: CBF General Assembly & Experience Planning
charris@cbf.net
(770) 220-1639
Jennifer represents CBF in federal policy conversations with elected officials, Hill staffers and advocacy coalitions. She also facilitates opportunities for CBF clergy and lay leaders to advocate in D.C. and empower them to advocate in their local communities. She is passionate about deepening relationships between CBF and other denominations and hopes to help churches realize the connection between missions and advocacy.
Jennifer serves CBF by teaching people about pending legislation, providing advocacy trainings, assisting churches’ Washington D.C. trips and teaching tactics for local or state issues the church wants to speak into. She aims to model advocacy in missions, seeking to amplify the voices that have been excluded, marginalized and overlooked. Jennifer has a Masters of Divinity from Truett Theological seminary at Baylor University, a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law and a Bachelor of Science from Mississippi College. For more than nine years, Jennifer worked for CBF-partner Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty. She has also served in the legal system as a law clerk for a trial judge and state supreme court justice and worked as an advocate for children and survivors of family violence.
Jennifer loves to travel with family, curl up with a good book and cheer on the Lady Vols during basketball season.
Jennifer joined CBF in December 2023.
Ask me about: advocacy opportunities and ways we can connect our faith to the public square
jhawks@cbf.net
(770) 220-1606
Providing expert guidance and strategic support, Lindsi is dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of Global Missions field personnel and their families. The focus is on fostering a culture of holistic care and resilience across Field Ministries by consulting on systems, resources, and volunteer teams that prioritize Member Care and Wellness. She ensures consistent, professional, and compassionate support while offering insights to refine organizational practices that promote sustainability, wellness, and flourishing in cross-cultural ministry. This role maintains full autonomy in service delivery, empowering field personnel to thrive in their vital work.
Lindsi identifies as a life-long learner with B.A.s in both Psychology and Social work from Meredith College. She also has two graduate degrees: a Master of Divinity with concentrations in Counseling & Chaplaincy and in Theology & Ethics from the Campbell University Divinity School and an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Campbell University’s School of Education and Human Sciences. She is a National Certified Counselor, a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, a Certified Clinical Supervisor, and also holds a Certificate in English-French Translation from L’Universitée de la Sorbonne in Paris.
She cherishes time spent with friends and family (especially her four girls) around a table, she loves to travel with her husband Richie, hike, kayak, and garden. She also enjoys various artistic pursuits and is a fan of college basketball!
Lindsi joined CBF in October of 2017.
Ask me about: how you can help support, encourage, and care for our field personnel.
Jeff leads the strategic communications, public relations, marketing and identity-building work of the Fellowship to connect the passions of Cooperative Baptists with the ministries and mission of CBF, and also serves as co-chair of the annual General Assembly and leads the team that produces CBF Gathering, our weekly program on Facebook and YouTube.
Jeff is a journalism and business administration graduate of Baylor University and earned a Master of Arts in Media and Public Affairs from The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. In his work at CBF, he leads a team that tells stories of ministry passion and impact to build ever-stronger connections between people, churches and partners across the Fellowship. The team also creates meaningful opportunities for the Fellowship community to learn from each other through the sharing of stories, ideas and gathering together.
He has served as editor-in-chief of The Baylor Lariat and communications director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty in Washington. Jeff is a fan of the 2019 World Series Champion Washington Nationals, but even more than the Nats, loves reading, playing tennis and baseball with his son, and watching movies with his wife.
He joined the CBF staff in June 2013.
jhuett@cbf.net
(770) 220-1683
Josh helps develops strategy for CBF fundraising and assists congregations with their stewardship work, nurturing relationships with churches along the way. He also helps facilitate CBF’s Cultivating Generous Congregations initiative, offered in partnership with the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.
Having worked 25 years in congregational ministry, Josh brings a pastor’s relational instincts to the work of church fundraising, understanding firsthand how stewardship, generosity, and congregational life intersect. He is completing an Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising from the Lake Institute, is a certified Prepare/Enrich facilitator, and is a trained Darkness to Light facilitator.
Josh earned his Doctor of Ministry in Church Leadership and Community Witness from Candler School of Theology at Emory University, his Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care and Counseling from the Gardner-Webb University School of Divinity, and his Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Sociology, with a minor in Psychology, from Carson-Newman University. He lives in Anderson, South Carolina, with his wife and their two sons. In his free time, he enjoys live theatre, musicals, photography, reading — everything from historic biographies to theology to a good bit of humor — and traveling with his family.
Josh joined the CBF staff in 2025.
jhunt@cbf.net
Dane manages mission service experiences and initiatives, seeking to fulfill the goals of CBF Global Missions. They aim to cultivate beloved community, bear witness to Jesus and seek transformational development in the contexts of global poverty, global migration and in partnership with the global Church.
He is passionate about identifying missions service opportunities and cultivating calling at both short and long-term levels.
Dane has 17 years of local church ministry, planning and implementing service opportunities. He has a Bachelor of Arts from High Point University, a Master of Divinity from Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond, Va., and anticipates receiving a Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary. He also holds a certificate in Youth and Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary, a Certificate in Faith Development Theory with Youth from Yale Divinity and a Certificate in Servant Leadership from Cornell University.
In his free time, Dane likes to cheer on the Baltimore Orioles with his family and dogs and is always up to travel.
Dane joined the CBF staff in October 2024.
Ask me about: StudentServe Internship Program & Short-term Mission Experiences
djackson@cbf.net
(770) 706-8821
Kasey engages with churches and individuals to invite partnership with CBF. Additionally, her work includes working with congregations to engage in diversity, equity, inclusion and racial justice ministry efforts.
In her work to help grow the Fellowship’s impact, Kasey is most passionate about working directly with churches and individuals to make meaningful connections to do kingdom work together. Prior to joining the CBF staff in October 2017, Kasey served as a senior pastor in Washington, D.C. for 12 years, and also worked previously as a community organizer. She earned an Master of Divinity from Wesley Theological Seminary and Bachelors of Arts from Howard University. In her CBF role, she combines her ministry and community organizing experiences, as she engages partners on behalf of CBF and building relationships that are resources for our churches.
Kasey is a huge fan of the Chicago link-up of Chicago Med, Fire & PD on television and enjoys “good” ice cream.
She joined the CBF staff in October 2017.
kjones@cbf.net
(770) 220-1620
Jay leverages technology and the CBF network of churches and clergy to support congregations and ministers as they connect for vocational opportunities. He is also passionate about helping churches become places free from abuse where everyone can thrive. Jay is a safeguarding specialist for GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment) and a facilitator for Darkness to Light’s “Stewards of Children.” He routinely seeks trauma-related learning and is trained as a victim’s advocate. Jay volunteers with local rape crisis / child advocacy centers and supports churches as they develop great policies and procedures for preventing abuse. He also leads the CBF behavioral threat assessment and management team that provides resources to employees, ministers, and churches when they experience threats (such as threats of violence, harassing behavior, and stalking). He also supports churches as they plan for safety or train security teams.
Prior to joining CBF in 2021, Jay led CBF South Carolina for 9 years and served local churches in North and South Carolina, and Alabama for 21 years. He holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from the Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond (thesis focus: cultivating congregational stewardship), a Master of Theology (thesis focus: women’s activism in the Baptist church) and a Master of Divinity degrees from the Divinity School at Duke University, and Bachelor of Arts from Mercer University (honors thesis: theology of Frederick Beuchner). Jay is a member of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals and the international security professionals society, ASIS. He parents two adult children with Melanie, his wife of 33 years.
Ask me about: vocational discernment and searching for a minister, the preventing and responding well to sexual abuse and misconduct, and concerns about safety or threatening behavior.
jkieve@cbf.net
(770) 220-1678
Colin serves as the Young Adults Ministry Manager with CBF. He works to address the needs of young adults in CBF churches and help congregations engage with them. He provides resources for churches to understand the young adults in their congregations and their communities as partners in ministry and service. Colin is able connect young adults to resources, experiences and opportunities that provide deeper connections to their sense of calling. Colin is also a certified instructor in Mental Health First Aid and Youth Mental Health First Aid, which he offers for congregations and ministry partners.
Colin has a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry and Masters of Divinity from Campbell University, and was ordained by Cane Creek Baptist Church in Hillsborough, North Carolina.
Colin is found visiting state parks, local restaurants and coffee shops with his wife, Sarah and their twins Axel and Luna.
Ask me about: Young Adult Retreats and Experiences, Calling and Discernment Resources, and Mental Health First Aid certifications.
ckroll@cbf.net
(770) 220-1619
Lauren works with the CBF Communications and Identity team in editing, planning, and formatting fellowship! magazine, newsletters, email campaigns and news updates. She is also the associate editor for the General Assembly guidebook and helps in content creation, planning and copyediting.
Lauren loves using stories from the CBF family about their work in congregations, missions, chaplaincy and seminaries to share how God is working in the world. She keeps CBF congregations informed and equipped with necessary resources so that they are growing both within their walls and throughout the world. Her experience in journalism gave her skills that help fulfill that call and need in ministry for communication that she has found is necessary to maintain a healthy congregation.
She is a graduate of Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and received her Master of Divinity from Mercer University’s McAfee School of Theology.
Lauren enjoys hiking with her husband, reading a good book on her Kindle, and of course cheering on the Auburn Tigers in any sport!
She joined the staff in October 2022
Ask me about: email marketing, blog, fellowship! magazine
llamb@cbf.net
(770) 220-1615
Jeff works with the CBF Communications and Identity team as graphic designer. He also serves as coordinator of CBF Heartland.
With a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Central Missouri and Master of Arts from Purdue University, Jeff is passionate about helping churches find solutions to problems they are facing through relationships and resources. In his multiple roles, he is able to form deep relationships while also providing practical and tangible assistance.
Outside of work, Jeff enjoys spending time with family, camping and teaching Sunday School.
Jeff joined the CBF Global staff in January 2021. He has served as Coordinator for CBF Heartland since 2015.
Ask me about: Graphics and CBF branding
In her work, Grace seeks to help foster a culture that reflects CBF’s core values while strengthening collaboration across teams. She oversees CBF’s information technology and acts as a bridge between CBF Global and state and regional partners.
Ask me about: CBF culture, collaborative work, and IT systems
Grace is passionate about creating inclusive systems where people feel seen, supported, and empowered. Her work reflects a deep belief in the power of partnerships and a desire to reflect God’s love through excellence, empathy, and connection.
She holds degrees in Urban Ministry and Sociology from Gordon College and a Master’s in Community Development Policy and Practice from the University of New Hampshire.
Outside of work, Grace loves alternative and Latin pop, dancing with her pup Osa, and exploring new places with her husband Benji.
She’s been part of the CBF team since August 2018.
gmartino@cbf.net
(770) 220-1658
Ossie McKinney serves as the Director of Research and Administration for Outreach and Growth. She serves CBF by leading research and administrative work for Outreach and Growth, with a focus on racial justice and equity. She develops resources and tells stories that equip congregations and partners to engage faithfully in justice-centered ministry.
She is passionate about helping congregations connect worship to action, guiding them to see racial justice as an outgrowth of faith. She equips churches to translate what they pray and sing into faithful, transformative work for justice.
Ossie has a Ph.D in Christian Worship and a Doctorate of Worship Studies from Liberty University, a Master of Divinity from McAfee School of Theology and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from University of Louisiana at Monroe.
In her spare time, she loves to cruise, visit African American historical sites and spend time with her grandchildren. She especially enjoys playing with them, laughing together and making memories.
She joined CBF January 1, 2026.
omckinney@cbf.net
(770) 220-1629
Dianne promotes the Offering for Global Missions by resourcing churches with materials and sharing stories from our Field Personnel to emphasize the importance of long term presence.
Having previously served as Field Personnel in Slovakia and Czechia for over 19 years Dianne is honored and excited to continue to support the long term presence and ministry of our field personnel around the world.
As an advocate for the Offering for Global Missions, she has the opportunity to invite Cooperative Baptists to partner with our field personnel in their ministries as they support their presence around the globe. Her long term service makes Dianne uniquely qualified to share about life on the field and her nursing background brings an important way of looking at situations with the ability to plan effectively and execute those plans based on the current context.
Dianne is a graduate of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She has a love for reading, sewing, crafting and cooking.
Dianne joined CBF as Field Personnel in 2004, she has been a part of the CBF Global staff since August, 2023.
Ask me about: How to encourage your church or mission group to support missions education
dmcnary@cbf.net
(770) 220-1691
Renée oversees the chaplaincy and pastoral counseling ministries endorsement process, including coaching and mentoring seminary students and ordained ministers through the process. She serves as “chaplain to the chaplains”, providing emotional and spiritual support and professional guidance in the field of chaplaincy and pastoral counseling.
A graduate of Duke Divinity School (Master of Divinity), her passion for chaplaincy and pastoral counseling is found in that it has given her the opportunity to journey with patients, families, and healthcare staff through sacred times in their lives during times of grief, loss, and trauma. Prior to joining the CBF staff, Renée served for 20 years as a hospital chaplain, and later as a chaplain administrator, in diverse healthcare settings around the country.
Renée’s background also includes serving in local CBF-affiliated churches in associate minister roles in the early years of her ministerial career.
Renée enjoys traveling with her husband, Tommy, and their black-lab, Coco, in their Brinkley RV. Most weekends you can find them on a hiking trail, toasting smores over a campfire, and making memories on a new adventure.
She joined the CBF staff in August 2020.
Ask Me About: Endorsement with CBF
rowen@cbf.net
(770) 220-1612
Rubén advances the mission and identity of CBF and the purpose and goals of diversity through Latino Ministries, serving as the primary contact with CBF’s Latino congregations and partners and providing leadership to Familia, CBF’s Latino Network.
A graduate in Christian communications from HCJB in Quito, Ecuador, Rubén has served as a pastor for more than two decades as well as a spiritual director and journalist. In his role with CBF, he serves as consultant, advisor, resources facilitator and promotes the wellbeing of congregations and pastors. A crucial aspect of his ministry is to coordinate the integration of churches to the life of CBF state and regional organizations and networks.
Rubén loves a variety of musical styles, including classical, chorale, jazz and jazz Latino. He also enjoys reading, spending time with family and travel.
He joined the staff in October 2017.
Ask me about: outreach to Latino organizations, leaders, and churches within the CBF.
rortiz@cbf.net
(770) 220-1641
As Director of Strategy and Programs, Javier Perez functions as CBF Global Missions’ architect for strategic direction and programmatic innovation. He leads the design and implementation of a participatory global strategy that reflects the wisdom and realities of field personnel and partners.
Javier works closely with global teams to assess emerging needs, co-create contextualized initiatives, and develop alternative program-driven funding structures that support long-term impact. His work strengthens organizational effectiveness and ensures that CBF’s mission distinctives are embodied through field-responsive, theologically grounded programs.
Ask me about: CBF Global Missions Strategy, Mission partnerships in Latin America and the Caribbean, The Strengthening Families on the Move (SFP) program, Grant Opportunities, Impact Report, GM Global Security Assessment, Regional Teams.
jperez@cbf.net
(770) 220-1645
Duane Powell serves as CBF’s Director of Accounting Services, helping oversee the organization’s financial stewardship. In his role, he supports those serving churches by ensuring timely, accurate financial information.
With more than 11 years of nonprofit experience, Duane brings a strong background in finance, management and nonprofit leadership. His academic training in finance, management, nonprofits and Christian theology further equips him for his work at CBF. In Duane’s spare time, he likes to read Christian Apologetics.
He joined the CBF staff in August 2025.
Charlie provides professional and personal support to CBF-endorsed military chaplains and chaplain candidates, and also assists with planning and implementation of CBF Chaplaincy and Pastoral Counseling events and initiatives. He is passionate about opening avenues of ministry between CBF chaplaincy and CBF congregations.
Charlie served as a military chaplain for 28 years. Before becoming a chaplain, he held numerous ministry roles including pastor, missionary, church starter and youth minister. He holds degrees from Golden Gate Seminary (Master of Divinity, Doctor of Ministry), Princeton Theological Seminary (Masters in World Religion).
Charlie enjoys grandparenting, golf and watching The Amazing Race. He also likes listening to all kinds of music and reading biographies.
He joined the CBF staff in May 2021.
creynolds@cbf.net
As fAMILIA Outreach & Growth Specialist, Margie serves as the Ministerial Assistant to the fAMILIA Latino Network and the Moderator for the Latino Network. Her bilingual skills allow her to support networking efforts and address concerns with ease. She’s passionate about ensuring everything runs smoothly and wants to help people understand that they belong.
She previously worked in administration, mainly in the medical field in programs such as Medicaid & Social Security, HR & Management.
Margie went to Dodge High School and Lehman College in New York. She graduated as a Patient Care Technician from Daytona State College and Florida Tech College.
In her spare time, she likes to spend time with her grandchildren and great grandson. She likes to cheer on the New York METS!
Sean Roberds serves as the Executive Coordinator of Mid-Atlantic CBF and part of the Outreach and Growth team.
After being exposed to racial justice work at an early age, he is passionate about caring for pastors, supporting congregations and the justice work at CBF. He is able to serve by building relationships and making connections in the Mid-Atlantic region, preaching, prayer and offering guidance to a variety of people, churches and cultures.
Sean has a Bachelor of Arts in Religion from Mars Hill College in Mars Hill, N.C. and a Master of Divinity from Baptist Theological Seminary of Richmond, Va.
He enjoys spending time with his family, traveling and reading. He’s a North Carolina State fan and cheers them on during football, basketball and baseball season.
Ask me about: Mid-Atlantic CBF, Outreach and Growth, Racial Justice
sroberds@cbf.net
(770) 706-8823
Elket collaborates with and advises staff, field personnel, chaplains, pastoral counselors, and partners such as Fellowship Southwest on immigration advocacy issues, policies, and missional strategies. Additionally, he supports the development and promotion of educational programs and training opportunities for CBF churches and partners.
Ask me about: CBF immigration advocacy
Melissa is the development specialist with daily administrative support as well as planning and implementation of events.
She is passionate about building new relationships with Cooperative Baptists and strengthening existing relationships through communication and fellowship. Through her role, Melissa serves churches and individuals by promoting impactful events that will leave a positive impact that can be shared within congregations and communities. She also provides support to streamline communications and marketing to Cooperative Baptists.
Melissa also serves as the Administration Assistant for CBF of Florida, where she has provided similar support on a state organization scale since 2016.
Outside the office, Melissa loves to visit Florida’s state parks and walk the trails with her son as he searches for his dream pet—a two-headed turtle.
She is passionate about building new relationships with Cooperative Baptists and strengthening existing relationships through communication and fellowship. Through her role, Melissa serves churches and individuals by promoting impactful events that will leave a positive impact that can be shared within congregations and communities. She also provides support to streamline communications and marketing to Cooperative Baptists.
Melissa also serves as the Administration Assistant for CBF of Florida, where she has provided similar support on a state organization scale since 2016.
Outside the office, Melissa loves to visit Florida’s state parks and walk the trails with her son as he searches for his dream pet—a two-headed turtle.
Ask me about: How I can make donating to CBF easier for you.
mrodriguez@cbf.net
(770) 220-1605
Ellen helps CBF congregations and mission leaders to deepen their missional connection with the Fellowship, in their own context, and with field personnel
Through her work with the Encourager Church Program, Missions Portfolio Assessment and Mission Leaders Network, Ellen is most passionate about connecting with churches and growing mission engagement alongside CBF. Ellen received her B.S. from Mars Hill College and her M.Div. from Southern Seminary before serving in congregations for over 30 years.
When she’s not building relationships between churches and field personnel, Ellen is always entertaining. She loves to cook and travel and, if she could, she would always be working from the beach.
Ellen joined the CBF staff in February 2019.
Ask me about: growing your mission engagement with CBF and in your community
esechrest@cbf.net
(770) 220-1611
Erica Soto is a Certified Fundraising Executive who has spent more than a decade in nonprofit leadership roles raising funds to support mission-focused organizations Like CBF.
She lives in Beaverton, Ore.
Erica joined the CBF staff in March 2026.
Aaron serves as editor of fellowship! magazine and the CBFblog, where he leads the storytelling work and news coverage of the Fellowship’s missions and ministries. He is responsible for directing CBF’s print communication efforts, resource development and production, video production, media relations, special campaigns, and the award-winning CBF Conversations podcast.
Aaron has a special passion for sharing the stories of Cooperative Baptists living out their faith. He is the co-founder of the CBF Environmental Stewardship Network and represents CBF on the Baptist Heritage & Identity Commission of the Baptist World Alliance. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia (B.A., Political Science) and Baylor University (M.A. and Ph.D. in Religion and Politics). Aaron is the author of several books and serves as an adjunct professor at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology, where he teaches Baptist history and theology. He also serves as Executive Director of the Baptist History & Heritage Society.
Aaron enjoys hiking, riding bikes, and playing tennis with his wife and three children. He is a big fan of professional tennis, Baylor basketball, and The Dan Le Batard Show.
Ask me about: resources, publications, storytelling, videos, news coverage and media relations.
aweaver@cbf.net
(770) 220-1610
Victoria is the Finance and Operations Manager for the Cooperative Baptists Fellowship (CBF) and plays a crucial role in an organization, combining both strategic and financial responsibilities. She oversees the financial operations ensuring compliance with regulations. Victoria manages the budget process, financial reporting, and analysis to support decision-making. Additionally, she collaborates with various departments to streamline operations and improve overall efficiency.
Victoria focuses her energies on top-notch customer service to congregations as well as CBF staff, and Global Mission Career Field Personnel. She assists them in navigating financial concerns related to ministry funding, accounts payable, payroll systems, life and disability insurance, and retirement plans. A graduate of Saint Elizabeth College with a Bachelors degree in business administration, Victoria added to her professional education with certificates in project management, financial accounting, 403b plan administration and international business.
As a bilingual speaker, Victoria enjoys traveling around the world, particularly to Colombia to visit family. She is also a proud mom to her wonderful daughter, Paloma. In her free time, Victoria loves reading and spending time with family, as well as listening to and dancing to Spanish music.
She joined CBF staff in November 2006.
Ask me about: CBF Accounts Payable, SAP Concur Expense and Invoice, CBF Master Card Administration, CBF Financial Operations, and CBF Payroll Administration.
vewhatley@cbf.net
(770) 220-1675
Zulma advances the Disaster Ready Church Program by guiding the transition from planning to implementation across participating SROs. This position ensures a seamless rollout, effective training and measurable outcomes, empowering faith-based organizations to serve their communities during crises.
With expertise in disaster preparedness, project management, and community engagement, Zulma helps equip churches with the essential knowledge, tools, and resources to respond effectively to disasters. As a core component of the CBF Disaster Response Network, this program fosters resilience and readiness among faith communities.
Ask me about: Disaster Response Preparedness.