Anglican Deaconess Ministries has announced its new CEO will be Dr Kate Harrison Brennan.
Established in 1891, ADM has had a distinguished history in women's theological education, health and seniors services as well as resourcing ministry initiatives. It runs Mary Andrews College in Sydney, which has a range of theological and pastoral care courses.
Dr Harrison Brennan replaces Dr Karin Sowada, who stepped down as CEO in February this year.
A Rhodes Scholar and Young Australian of the Year for NSW (2006), Dr Harrison Brennan studied international development and politics at Oxford and Princeton Universities.
She was most recently Founder and CEO of Global & Smart, a design and technology company and previously worked as an adviser to former Prime Minister Julia Gillard.
In announcing the appointment, ADM Chair Gillian Davidson said “I am delighted that Kate has agreed to take on the responsibility of leading ADM into its next phase. The board has ambitious and exciting plans for the organisation and is confident that with Kate, all the benefits of her entrepreneurial experience, fierce intellect and commitment to the flourishing of women in the service of gospel work will see these plans realised”.
"To be entrusted with the leadership of ADM is a gift. ADM has an incredibly rich history" Dr Harrison Brennan said. "My connection with ADM's history is personal - my grandmother was a nurse at the Greenwich Home of Peace Hospital. But our story as an organisation is also ahead of us - with the opportunity for ADM to be part of what God is doing in the world right now, and in the next generation”.
“I come to this role with a bold vision for the Kingdom: to raise up women with theological formation, for practical and public engagement. I look forward to working with the ADM board and team, our members and all those in ministry with the organisation. I invite you to join us as we raise up women for faithful witness to the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, seeking to be a gift to the Church and for the common good” the new CEO said.
