The Drew Theological School alum was the unanimous choice for the position
December 2023 – Drew Theological School alum the Rev. Dr. Gina Jacobs-Strain T’09 has been named the General Secretary of the American Baptist Churches USA (ABCUSA). Her appointment will commence on February 1, 2024.
Jacobs-Strain, who was the unanimous choice of the search committee, is currently the Executive Director for American Baptist Women’s Ministries (ABWM) and a member of the National Executive Council for ABCUSA.
“We believe Dr. Jacobs-Strain is the person that God has chosen to lead our denominational family,” said ABCUSA President Jim Wolfe in a statement. “She has the academic background, professional and personal skills to lead this diverse family into the mission that God has prepared for us.”
Under her leadership, ABWM introduced the AB GIRLS program, “Building Bridges and Gateways to Girl’s Future/Hie-STEAM,” an initiative empowering girls to recognize God’s creative potential within them. ABWM has also broadened its Beloved Community and Domestic Violence ministries, offering seminars and webinars tailored for young adult women.
Jacobs-Strain graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Master of Divinity from Drew. She was also honored with the Old Testament Studies Scholar Award from the Biblical Studies Department. She earned her Doctor of Ministry from Duke University.
Jacobs-Strain has held various pastoral roles, currently serving as Associate Minister of Christian Education at St. Paul Baptist Church in Montclair, New Jersey.
