Overview:
In a groundbreaking move, the National Baptist Convention, USA, has named the Rev. Dr. Valerie Thompson its new chief of staff — a powerful sign that women are finally claiming space in one of the nation’s oldest and most influential Black denominations.
In a historic move signaling a new era for one of the nation’s oldest and largest Black denominations, the Rev. Dr. Valerie Thompson has been appointed chief of staff of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. (NBC). The appointment marks a major step toward inclusivity under the leadership of the denomination’s new president, the Rev. Dr. Boise Kimber, who has pledged to elevate women and younger clergy into key leadership roles.
“She brings to this role a deep spiritual foundation, administrative acumen, and pastoral wisdom that will strengthen the Convention’s capacity for ministry in these times,” Kimber said in a statement. When he was installed last year, Kimber made known his intention to make space for women and younger ministers.
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That commitment became visible earlier this fall when Kimber invited the Rev. Tracey L. Brown, founder and pastor of Ruth Fellowship Ministries in Plainfield, New Jersey, to preach during the evening service of the NBC annual meeting — the first woman ever to do so in the denomination’s 145-year history. “I feel humbled and honored,” Brown said.
Thompson, who has served for several years as pastor of Revelation Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia, expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in her. “I am humbled to accept this responsibility,” she said in remarks to NBCUSA leadership. “My commitment is to serve Christ through this Convention, to build bridges among our churches, and to ensure our mission and message are renewed for this generation.”
As chief of staff, Thompson will oversee internal operations, coordinate among executive offices, and guide strategic planning — a particularly critical role as Kimber leads an effort to reorganize and modernize the Convention’s headquarters.
Thompson answered her call to ministry in 1996, following theological studies at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. She left a successful journalism career at the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer to enter full-time ministry, later becoming the first woman to serve as senior pastor of a Baptist congregation in Columbus.
Known for her leadership in Christian education, community outreach, and congregational development, Thompson also brings national-level experience to her new post. The Congressional Record recently commended the work of National Baptist leaders in Georgia, noting that under previous leadership, Thompson had been recommended for the NBCUSA board — experience that gave her insight into denominational governance and cross-regional collaboration.
Supporters celebrated her appointment on social media. “You exemplify grace, strength, determination and faith-filled leadership,” Lesha Crocker wrote on Facebook. “Your accomplishment inspires so many of us to keep pressing forward.”
Looking ahead, Thompson acknowledged both the magnitude of the task and her faith in the Convention’s mission. “I know there is work to be done — operationally, structurally, and spiritually,” she said. “But I trust in God’s grace and in the collaborative spirit of our churches. Together we will walk forward into a future faithful to our heritage and responsive to the times.”