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!
From its inception, PANAAWTM has refused to see Asian and Asian American realities as sharply divided and provided opportunities for transnational linkages and conversations.
Our Mission
PANAAWTM (“Pacific Asian and North American Asian Women in Theology and Ministry”) advances feminist leadership in faith communities, the academy, and the wider society.
Our Identity
PANAAWTM is a transnational feminist network for people of Asian heritage who identify as women or non-binary. We are an LGBTQIA-affirming organization. We honor multiple religious belonging, are rooted in Christian traditions, and are committed to interreligious engagement.
Our Values
We value:
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Intergenerational and multi-ethnic relationships through mentoring, peer support, and community building;
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Transnational feminist collaborations for justice, peace, and ecological care;
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Innovative scholarship and embodied knowledge;
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Diverse perspectives and experiences.
Our Board
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Ahyun Lee, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary (Chair)
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B. Yuki Schwartz, Claremont School of Theology (Treasurer)
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Eunbee Ham, Madison Square Presbyterian Church (Co-chair Development)
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Felicia Tran, The Seattle School of Theology and Psychology (Communications Committee)
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Hannah GS Injamuri, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary (Doctoral Student Board member)
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Haruka Umetsu Cho, Santa Clara University (Chair Membership, Communications Committee)
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Lama Htoi San Lu, North Park University (Co-chair Mentoring)
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Jin Young Choi, Colgate Rochester Crozer Div. School
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Kristine Chong, Volunteers of America (Vice-Chair, Chair Nomination)
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Laura Cheifetz, Vanderbilt University (Secretary, Co-chair Development)
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Lisa Asedillo, Pacific School of Religion
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Mary Foskett, Wake Forest University (Chair Ad Hoc Regional Networks, Ad Hoc Policy Committee)
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Mukshah Chingzung Phom, Union Theological Seminary (Student Board Member)
Our Staff
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Christine Hong, Columbia Theological Seminary (Capacity Building Grant Director)
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Linda Morgan-Clement, Lawrence University/Retired (Project Manager)
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HyeLim Yoon, Emmanuel College in the University of Toronto (Communications Manager)
Our Committees
Annual Conference Committee
Breanna van Velzen, Durham Congregations In Action
Hannah Ka, First Church San Diego
Haruka Umetsu Cho, Santa Clara University
Mentoring Committee
Esther Parajuli, Lexington Theological Seminary
Grace Y. Kao, Clarement School of Theology
Heike Peckruhn, Eastern Mennonite University
Htoi San Lu, North Park Theological Seminary
Jin Young Choi, Colgate Rochester Crozer Div. School
Kirsten Oh, Azusa Pacific University
Yuki Schwartz, Claremont School of Theology
Membership Committee
Breanna van Velzen, Durham Congregations In Action
Eunchong Kim, Boston University
Haruka Umetsu Cho, Santa Clara University
Janelle Hiroshige, Parish of the Epiphany Episcopal Church
Mihee Kim-Kort, Indiana University
Development Committee
Eunbee Ham, Madison Square Presbyterian Church
Mary Foskett, Wake Forest University
Laura Cheifetx, Presbytery of San Francisco
Lisa Asedillo, Pacific School of Religion
Rita Nakashima Brock
Nomination Committee
Cassandra Chee
Kristine Chong, Volunteers of America
Haruka Umetsu Cho, Santa Clara University
Ad Hoc Regional Networks Grants Committee
Hannah Ka, First Church San Diego
Kristine Chong, Volunteers of America
Mary Foskett, Wake Forest University
Ad Hoc Policy Committee
Lisa Asedillo, Pacific School of Religion
Mary Foskett, Wake Forest University
Yuki Schwartz, Claremont School of Theology
