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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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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Mx. 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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Hannah-Grace Injamuri, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary (student representative)
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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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Mukshah Chingzung Phom, Union Theological Seminary (student representative)
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Dr. Yuki Schwartz, Treasurer, Claremont School of Theology
Our Committees
Executive Committee (Officers)
Boyung Lee (Chair), Kristine Chong, Nami Kim, Yuki Schwartz
Annual Conference Committee
Ahyun Lee (Chair), Haruka Umetsu Cho, Angie Hong, Hannah Ka, Breanna van Velzen
Development Committee
Laura Cheifetz (Co-Chair), Eunbee Ham (Co-Chair), Mary Foskett, Lisa Asedillo, Rita Nakashima Brock
Mentoring Committee
Jin Young Choi (Co-chair), Htoi San Lu, Kirsten Oh, Esther Parajuli, Heike Peckruhn, Yuki Schwartz, and Gale A. Yee
Communication & Publicity Committee
Grace Kao (Interim chair), Janelle Hiroshige, Eunchong Kim, Mihee Kim-Kort, and Breana van Velzen
Nominations Committee
Kristine Chong (Chair), Haruka Umetso, Nami Kim, Cassandra Chee
Ad Hoc Policy Committee
Mary Foskett (Chair), Lisa Asedillo, Nami Kim, Yuki Schwartz
Ad Hoc Regional Grants Committee
Mary Foskett (Chair), Kristine Chong, Hannah Ka
PANAAWTM Managers & Contact Info
Linda Morgan-Clement (Project Manager)
HyeLim Yoon (Communications Manager)
contact: panaawtm@gmail.com
