Author

Suzii Paynter

Co-director, Pastors for Texas Children

Suzii Paynter was the third executive coordinator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF), serving from 2013 to 2019 as chief executive for this 1,800-congregation network. A longtime advocate for children, Paynter now serves as co-director of Pastors for Texas Children. She also serves on the executive committee of the Baptist World Alliance and chairs its Human Rights Advocacy Committee. She has been recognized by numerous national religious and secular organizations, such as the Council on Foreign Relations, Religion and Public Policy Project, Sierra Club, American Association of Retired Persons, Samaritan Counseling Centers, and the National Immigration Forum. She has twice been recognized as the outstanding nonprofit lobbyist at the Texas Legislature for her effective work on multiple issues. She is a graduate of Baylor University and Stephen F. Austin University. Paynter serves on the Advisory Council of Leadership Education at Duke Divinity.

Tim Soerens

Applications now open for Reflective Leadership Grants

“This was a game-changer for us. The chance to climb up from the ‘dance floor’ of our everyday activity and discern a clarified organization future from the ‘balcony’ was the gift we needed even more than we understood at the time.

If possible, please pursue this extraordinary opportunity.”

— Tim Soerens, Parish Collective

Christian leaders from a variety of roles are welcome to apply. The grants provide “balcony time” to reflect on accomplishments, broaden perspectives and discern next steps. The application deadline is May 2, 2025.

Learn more