Recently, two senior members of the Seminary of the Southwest administrative staff were elected to the boards of two prominent Episcopal institutions. April Kerwin, Southwest’s Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving, was elected to a term on the board of directors for Camp Allen, one the largest and most prominent camps and retreat centers in the church. Further, Eric Scott, Southwest’s Vice President for Communications and Marketing, was elected to join the board of directors of the Episcopal Parish Network.
Camp Allen, established in 1923, is a ministry of the diocese of Texas located in Navasota, TX. Their expansive and bucolic campus has a mission to, “honor God and enriches lives by being a year-round gathering place for all ages, offering Christian hospitality amidst 1,100 forested acres, and striving for excellence in facilities, service, and programs.
“I am excited to join the board of Camp Allen, the premier camp for young people and a conference center for all ages, operated by the Diocese of Texas,” said Kerwin. “As a parent of a long-time camper and counselor at Camp Allen, I have seen firsthand how children, youth, and young adults experience God in the beautiful piney woods. For some, Camp Allen begins a lifelong journey of growing in love and knowledge of God. For others, Camp Allen serves as a continuation of their Christian formation and a way to learn how to serve others. Regardless of their stage in life, everyone at Camp Allen has the opportunity to establish and deepen meaningful relationships that enhance their spiritual journey.”
The Episcopal Parish Network, formerly known as the Consortium of Endowed Episcopal Parishes (CEEP), was formed in 1985 as a national consortium of endowed Episcopal parishes to share dreams for the Church. The name of the organization has evolved over the years to better reflect the broadening focus of its original mission to serve and empower leadership in parishes. In 2022, the name became Episcopal Parish Network (EPN), honoring the past, present, and future of the association.
“EPN is a critical resource for the church,” said Scott. “The annual gathering has become an important place not only to share invaluable information and insight but to join in fellowship with our national church in ways which resonate and inspire. The programming it offers throughout the year offers insight and education you cannot find in other places. It is an honor to be asked to join this thoughtful group of leaders and to help shepherd this community we hold so dear.”
“Congratulations to Mr. Scott and Ms. Kerwin for their elections to these boards,” said Dr. Scott Bader-Saye, dean and president. “The presence of our administrative leadership in these positions underscores the seminary’s contributions to the wider church. Eric and April are exemplary at what they do, and they will bring much wisdom and experience to conversations about the church’s life and flourishing.”
