PANAAWTM began as a small group of Asian and Asian American women who were enrolled in graduate theological institutions or working in ministry in the US in 1984. Before PANAAWTM, several Asian American members from the West Coast were active in PACTS (Pacific Asian Center for Theology and Strategies). Over the years, our network has expanded and 2024 marks our 40th year!
PANAAWTM is a community for people who identify as women and/or non-binary of Asian heritage and are in theology or ministry (e.g. students, faculty, ministers, community activists who are committed to bringing women's voices and concerns to the faith communities and society). This is an LGBTQIA-affirming space. We have published books on feminist studies in theology and religion, challenged patriarchal practices in churches, organized annual conferences, and mentored students and the upcoming generation of women leaders.
Celebrating our 40th year!
For 36 years, PANAAWTM has refused to see Asian and Asian American realities as sharply divided and provided opportunities for transnational linkages and conversations.
Our Mission
To co-create theologies and generate new knowledge in our own voices for justice, peace, and creation care.
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To support our work and leadership for faith communities, educational institutions, and other sectors of society.
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To mentor new generations.
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To engage and lead local communities across North America in transformative praxis.
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To contribute to transnational feminist theological conversations.
Our Board
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Rev. Laura Cheifetz, Vanderbilt University
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Dr. Haruka Umetsu Cho, Santa Clara University
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Dr. Jin Young Choi, Colgate Rochester Crozer Div. School
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Ms. Kristine Chong, Secretary, Volunteers of America
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Dr. Mary Foskett, Wake Forest University
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Dr. Christine Hong, Columbia Theological Seminary
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Dr. Grace Yia-Hei Kao, Claremont School of Theology
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Dr. Nami Kim, Vice-Chair, Spelman College
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Dr. Ahyun Lee, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary
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Dr. Boyung Lee, Chair, Iliff School of Theology
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Ms. Htoi San Lu, Vanderbilt University
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Mx. Kai Ngu, University of Michigan
Our Committees
Finance & Fundraising Committee
Nami Kim (Chair), Rita Nakashima Brock, Laura Cheifetz, Mary Foskett
Mentoring & Program/Education Committee
Jin Young Choi (Co-chair), Grace Y. Kao (Co-chair), Htoi San Lu, Kirsten Oh, Esther Parajuli, Heike Peckruhn, Yuki Schwartz, and Gale A. Yee
Communication & Publicity Committee
Christine Hong (Co-chair), Kai Ngu (Co-chair), Janelle Hiroshige, Eunchong Kim, Mihee Kim-Kort, and Breana van Velzen
Annual Conference Committee
Ahyun Lee (Chair), Haruka Umetsu Cho, Angie Hong, Hannah Ka
Executive Committee (Officers)
Boyung Lee (Chair), Kristine Chong, Nami Kim
PANAAWTM Managers & Contact Info
Linda Morgan-Clement (Project Manager)
HyeLim Yoon (Communications Manager)
contact: panaawtm@gmail.com
