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LOUISVILLE, KY – October 5, 2023 - Haley Holcomb, a dedicated and accomplished part-time Communications Coordinator at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (LPTS) will begin a new phase in her career at LPTS. On October 17, 2023, she will be the new Parenting Researcher and Coordinator for the Christian Parenting and Caregiving Program, which is funded by a grant awarded by the Lilly Endowment Inc. in the fall of 2022.
In her new role, Haley will transition from part-time to full-time employment while continuing her academic journey as a graduating student. She will play a pivotal role in executing the grant's objectives under the guidance of faculty members in the “Building Communities and Nurturing Relationships Framework” at the Seminary.
Haley's responsibilities will encompass coordinating research into the role of faith in the lives of parents and children and exploring children's religious imaginations, with a focus on the insights of LPTS Second Presbyterian Church Professor of Christian Education, Brad Wigger. Additionally, she will delve into the intergenerational relationships of women, guided by the expertise of Associate Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy, Lesley Ann Earles. Furthermore, Haley will actively engage with family activities hosted by the Louisville Seminary Counseling Center, contributing her unique perspective and skills to enhance the grant's initiatives.
Kassandra Turpin, VP for Strategic Initiatives & Communication, had glowing praise for Haley's contributions and her transition to the new role: "Haley has been an invaluable asset to our communications department, and her commitment to excellence has been evident in her work. We will grieve her departure from the communications team but are excited about the important work she will be doing. I have no doubt that she will excel in her role and contribute significantly to the grant's mission."
The Chair of the Search Committee, Lesley Ann Earles, expressed her enthusiasm for Haley's appointment: "We are excited to welcome Haley to the dynamic work of the Christian Parenting and Caregivers Grant. Her theological grounding as well as communication and research experience will be invaluable to continuing the priorities of the grant to better understand and support families. She is a scholar who will contribute to the rigor of projects as well as someone whose warmth and compassion will be key in engaging participants in interviews and activities. Haley impressed the search committee with her desire to eagerly engage in the explorations of the subject matter as well as her growth mindset in approaching research methods."
Dianne Reistroffer, a member of the search committee, added, "Haley is a perfect fit for the position. An experienced project manager and self-described multitasker, Haley has many years of professional experience in marketing and communications. As a Master of Arts in Religion student, Haley has honed her research, analytical, and critical thinking skills, culminating in her recently completed master’s thesis, 'How the Narrative of Self-Denial in Southern Baptist Churches Influences Gender Dynamics.' The Committee was impressed with her high energy, obvious abilities, and keen interest in the position."
"At Louisville Seminary, we often say that two things can be true, and this is certainly the case for me now," added Haley about the departmental transition. "I am equally sad about leaving the communications team as I am excited about this new opportunity to use my research skills and support the work of the grant! I have enjoyed working with Kassy, Karen, and Norm so very much and am looking forward to being part of this new and dynamic research project that will equip parents (including myself!) with resources and tools about how to inspire the faith of our children."
Haley's transition to her new role marks a significant milestone in her career, and we look forward to witnessing her continued success in this endeavor. Congrats, Haley!
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