The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan has hired Rev. Dr. Jennie Browne as Senior Director of Connectional Engagement.
The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan is pleased to announce that the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Browne will join its staff as Senior Director of Connectional Engagement, effective August 1, 2026.
In this role, Dr. Browne will work closely with clergy and church leaders across the Michigan Conference, serving as one of the primary staff liaisons between the Foundation and the Conference. Through this connectional capacity, her ministry will include consulting with churches during times of transition and resourcing pastors as they onboard to a new ministry setting. She will also focus on equipping pastors for innovative and adaptive leadership in a changing ministry landscape.
Reflecting on the collaboration, Rev. Dr. David S. Bell, President and Executive Director, noted that the process was deeply rooted in prayer and partnership. “Jennie’s joining the Foundation staff is the result of thoughtful collaboration with Bishop Bard and a shared commitment to serving the Church faithfully,” he exclaimed. “From the beginning, we have seen clear evidence of the movement of the Holy Spirit.”
Dr. Browne will focus on strengthening congregational vitality and assisting congregations as they clarify and live into their mission, vision, and leadership capacity. She will also preach and consult in local churches.
Her familiarity with the Michigan Conference is both deep and longstanding. Dr. Browne will come to the Foundation in August, following her service on the Conference staff as Clergy Assistant to the Bishop. Her retirement, effective July 1, was announced by Bishop Bard in a recent news post. In her role with the Conference, she has been widely respected for her equitable spirit, trusted presence, and theological grounding.
Bishop David Bard affirmed both Dr. Browne’s gifts and the continued partnership between the Conference and the Foundation. “I have tremendous respect for Rev. Dr. Jennie Browne,” Bishop Bard stated, adding that he deeply appreciated working with her in recent years. He noted that her passion for clergy leadership development and for vibrant congregations “will serve the Foundation and the Conference well.”
Dr. Browne shared that her relationship with the Foundation began long before contemplating this new role. “My respect for the Foundation began during my years as a local church pastor,” she said. “This respect,” she continued, “has grown significantly over the course of my time on the Michigan Conference staff.”
She described the opportunity to join the Foundation as a meaningful transition. “To join the Foundation staff is a true gift,” Dr. Browne remarked, expressing deep gratitude. She added that she looks forward “to working with churches and clergy in new ways.”
Returning to the broader significance of her upcoming new role, David Bell emphasized the alignment of her calling with the position. “Jennie brings deep wisdom across the Conference and a profound love for the Church.” He added that the Foundation is grateful to continue its close partnership with Bishop Bard and the Michigan Conference, “as together we support clergy and congregations throughout Michigan.”
Dr. Browne echoed that sense of shared mission, saying she is excited to help strengthen ministries “as we share in the work of Christ in the world.”
The Foundation looks forward to the ways that Dr. Browne’s leadership will strengthen churches, encourage pastors, and support vibrant ministry across the Michigan Conference of The United Methodist Church.
The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan recently celebrated 100 years of ministry helping faithful people live generously. Visit their website to learn more.
Last Updated on January 9, 2026