As we step into 2025, the Disciples of Christ Historical Society is excited to share some important updates about our Board of Trustees.
Honoring the Service of Rev. Dr. Thaddaeus Allen
After two years of dedicated leadership, Rev. Dr. Thaddaeus Allen has completed his term as Board Chair. His tenure was marked by numerous transformative initiatives, including the restructuring of DCHS staff, the renovation of the archival wing at our Bethany facilities, and the groundwork for a much-needed facilities expansion. Dr. Allen also made significant contributions in recruiting skilled trustees and establishing governance policies that will guide the Society for years to come.
Reflecting on Dr. Allen’s impact, President Dr. Joel Brown shared:
“Rev. Dr. Allen’s impact on the Historical Society since its move to Bethany in 2016 cannot be overstated. He and his family helped to move us in—literally moving boxes into our archival storage facility—and have been among our strongest supporters. I am proud of the work we were able to accomplish together, and I am optimistic about the future of the Historical Society because of Thad’s service and leadership. I am honored to count him as a friend, mentor, and colleague.”
Dr. Allen serves as Regional Minister for the West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Northeastern regions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Later this year, we will celebrate his many contributions with a special event in his honor.
Welcoming Dr. Jamey Gorman as Board Chair
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. James “Jamey” Gorman has been named the new Board Chair. Dr. Gorman, a professor of history at Johnson University in Knoxville, Tennessee, is now serving his second term on the Board of Trustees and has been the Board Treasurer for the past two years.
An accomplished historian, Dr. Gorman is the author of Among the Early Evangelicals: The Transatlantic Origins of the Stone-Campbell Movement and co-editor of Slavery’s Long Shadow: Race and Reconciliation in American Christianity. His most recent publication, co-authored with Richard T. Hughes, is the third edition of Reviving the Ancient Faith: The Story of Churches of Christ in America (2024).
President Dr. Joel Brown expressed his excitement about Dr. Gorman’s new role:
“I’ve known Jamey since our graduate school days at Abilene Christian University, and I’ve always regarded him as one of our best historians and as a great person and leader. His heart is truly in this work, and I am so thrilled that the Board of Trustees has appointed him to serve as chair. I look forward to working with Dr. Gorman in the years to come.”
Joining Dr. Gorman on the Executive Committee of the Board are Rev. Rebecca Hale (Vice Chair), Rev. KyeongJung “KJ” Kim (Secretary), and William “Bill” Jennison (Treasurer).