Cynthia Hale

Hale is founder and senior pastor of Ray of Hope Christian Church in Decatur, Georgia. She has been recognized nationally and internationally for her leadership, integrity, and compassion during her distinguished career in the ministry. In 2009, President Barack Obama appointed her to serve on the President’s Commission on White House Fellowships. She has been honored by the National Urban League and is a recipient of the inaugural “Women of Power” award. In 2012, she received the Preston Taylor Living Legacy Award at the 22nd Biennial Session of the National Convocation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). That same year, Ebony magazine named her one of the Power 100, a yearly compilation of the most influential African Americans in the country. She is a member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) NFI Advisory Council, and a member of Welcome U.S. Council.

Hale holds a Master of Divinity degree from Duke University and a Doctor of Ministry from United Theological Seminary. In 2010, she authored her first book, I’m a Piece of Work: Sisters Shaped by God.