The role marks a homecoming for Glenn, who has served as a staff member, program facilitator and board officer with the Foundation over his 30-year career in the Western North Carolina Conference. Glenn currently serves as Senior Minister of Centenary UMC in Winston-Salem.
“It’s such a great story,” said President David Snipes, “that someone who was part of the mission and ministry of the Foundation will come back to continue that journey. I’m excited about the possibilities moving forward, knowing Glenn’s gifts and passion for building the Church.”
Glenn succeeds Susan Cothern, who moved closer to family following eight years on the Foundation staff. Glenn’s first day is July 1.
“As I shift roles, I do so with the firm belief that the Foundation is poised to help laity, clergy, and congregations be excellent in their present contexts and beyond,” Glenn said. “We can leverage our expertise to help constituents achieve their God-given potential.”
Who we are called to be
The Foundation has sought to be a steadying influence amid cultural and institutional change for the United Methodist Church. Glenn brings a unique perspective to this calling, said Anne Martin, Board Chair.
“Many of our congregations are asking, “Who are we now?” and “What does the future look like?” Anne said. “Glenn has been at the table for those conversations. He can help others step forward with courage and conviction.”
Prior to pastoral appointments at Centenary (2018-present) and Davidson (2007-18), Glenn spent three years on the Foundation staff as Senior Vice President for Planned Giving and Communication from 2004-07 (photo below). He later helped develop the Reynolds Academy for Ministry Management, a Foundation program that equips clergy to balance their roles as spiritual leaders and chief executives. Glenn co-facilitates the program with Jan Brittain.
In 2023, Glenn joined the Board of Directors in the role of Corporate Treasurer.
In his next chapter, Glenn will help the Foundation carry out a strategic vision crafted in response to the needs and aspirations of those we serve. Small group conversations with 100+ clergy and lay leaders from across the Conference revealed a desire for more leadership training for lay people, professional development opportunities for clergy in the middle and later stages of their careers, and greater emphasis on stewardship education, among other priorities.
“For my entire career, I’ve believed that there is nothing like the local church when the church is working well,” he said. “I look forward to using my gifts to help build the Church for generations to come.”
Family: Glenn is married to Dr. Mary Kinken, a pastoral psychotherapist and Elder in Full Connection in the Western North Carolina Conference. The Kinkens have two adult daughters, Clara Elizabeth and Anna Louise.
Education: Degree in economics from Davidson College in 1992; Master of Divinity from Duke University in 1995; Doctor of Ministry focused in Management Ministries from Graduate Theological Foundation in 2015.
First appointment: Youth pastor at Memorial UMC in Thomasville.
Worth noting: Glenn was born in Berlin while his dad was stationed in Germany with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Best wishes to a cherished colleague and friend
As she leaves the Foundation to move closer to family, Susan Cothern offers a word of thanks.
Board gives thanks for leadership, growth and fruitful ministry
There was a special tribute for outgoing board chair Anne Martin, whose steadying presence proved invaluable as the Foundation navigated post-pandemic recovery, disaffiliation and accompanying challenges.
Disciplined approach protects, grows your investment dollars
We are committed to maintaining discipline, balance, and, most importantly, a long-term focus in the decisions we make on your behalf.
