One of the highlights of the ELCA Churchwide Assembly was the election of Portico’s trustees, along with historic new denominational leadership. The theme of this year’s assembly was “For the Life of the World.”
PHOENIX, AZ – Portico’s full slate of Board members was affirmed during the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Churchwide Assembly held July 28 – August 2 in Phoenix. The election ensures continued strong governance and leadership for Portico as it serves ELCA communities nationwide.
Re-elected Trustees
Experienced trustees who were re-elected to continue their service on Portico’s board are:
- The Rev. Hans E. Becklin, Northeastern Pennsylvania Synod
- The Rev. Kathie Bender Schwich, Metropolitan Chicago Synod
- The Rev. Dr. Thomas P. Schlotterback, Montana Synod
- Angela Dejene, Minneapolis Area Synod
- Marjorie (Marj) B. Ellis, Southern Ohio Synod
- Vincent P. Brown, Pacifica Synod
- Ted W. Goins, North Carolina Synod
- Brett A. Kraemer, Southwestern Texas Synod
- Todd J. Maloy, Central States Synod
New Trustees
The board also is pleased to welcome new trustees, who bring fresh perspectives and expertise:
- Deacon Kayla E. Smrt, Metropolitan Chicago Synod
- Carla J. Borchardt, South Dakota Synod
- Amy Johnson, Minneapolis Area Synod
- Elizabeth B. Wagner, New Jersey Synod
- Kyle J. Gilster, Metropolitan Washington, D.C., Synod
- The Rev. Dr. Adam J. Copeland, Full Communion Partner, Presbyterian Church (USA)
- R. Dale Hall, Full Communion Partner, Methodist Church
Trustees are elected to serve a maximum of three consecutive three-year terms, ensuring both continuity and renewal of board leadership.
In addition, Lori S. Fedyk continues in her role as an advisory member.
“We’re very grateful for the dedication and expertise of our returning trustees, and we’re excited to welcome new voices to our board,” said Chris Johnson, Portico’s President and CEO. “This strong governance board ensures we can continue innovating and serving our sponsoring organizations and members with the excellence they deserve.”
Historic ELCA Leadership Elections
In addition to Portico’s board election, the Churchwide Assembly marked a pivotal moment in ELCA history with the election of new denominational leadership. The Rev. Yehiel Curry was elected as the ELCA’s new presiding bishop-elect, while the Rev. Lucille “CeCee” Mills was elected ELCA secretary. Both Bishop Curry and the Rev. Mills will be the first Black leaders to serve in their respective roles, ushering in a new phase of the church’s legacy under transformative leadership.
Reflecting on the ELCA leadership elections, Johnson said, “Bishop Curry and the Rev. Mills bring the visionary leadership our denomination needs as we move forward together. Their groundbreaking elections demonstrate the ELCA’s commitment to reflecting the full diversity of the communities we serve, and we’re excited to support their leadership in our shared mission.”
About the Churchwide Assembly
The ELCA Churchwide Assembly serves as the denomination’s chief legislative authority, bringing together representatives from across the church to conduct essential business and set strategic direction. This year’s assembly theme, “For the Life of the World,” reflected the church’s commitment to serving communities and addressing global challenges.
The affirmation of Portico’s trustees during the assembly underscores the organization’s integral role within the ELCA community and its ongoing commitment to serving all those who serve.