As my tenure comes to a close, I am reflecting on what a privilege it has been to serve as UUA President. I am proud of the work we have done to advance cultural and institutional change at the UUA, to nurture and sustain an increasingly diverse UUA staff, and to provide guidance rooted in our values and care for the most vulnerable throughout the pandemic. I am also tremendously proud of the work across our Association to invest in Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities in Unitarian Universalism, to defend democracy, expand UU organizing work for justice, and provide inspiration and spiritual care through these times of enormous challenge and change.
It has truly been my honor to serve alongside you all. Thank you for your generous support of me and of the UUA throughout these years. We have done amazing things, and I know this work will continue. I share this video message as a loving farewell. I hope you will share it in your congregations and communities in the coming weeks.
I’m also incredibly excited for what comes next. The pastoral and theological depth of our nominee for President, the Rev. Dr. SofÃa Betancourt, is the leadership we need. I know the amazing transformative work of the UUA will continue with Rev. SofÃa’s leadership.
I also know the road ahead is not smooth – our leaders and our next President will need your support, your prayers, and your generosity. I ask that you support the next President as fully as you have supported me and more so!
We are at an important moment in our country, across the planet, and as Unitarian Universalists. This is a time to come together, in covenant and care, as we navigate all that comes next. I am grateful for the continuity and steadfastness we have in this moment of transition – for all the religious professionals, leaders, groups, and congregations who continue to move this faith forward every day. And I am especially grateful for the dedicated work of UUA staff, who tend to, and sustain our web of interconnection with courage and commitment.
I send you much love and many blessings as we embark on this next chapter for the UUA. I am excited and ready for what comes next!
Love,
Susan
P.S. I cannot wait to be with you at GA this year! Don’t forget to register to join virtually or in person.
Psst! A note from President Susan's grateful colleagues: We invite you to continue Susan's amazing legacy of equipping congregations to organize for justice by making a donation in honor of Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray to UPLIFT, the UUA’s campaign for gender justice, LGBTQ+ civil rights and reproductive rights.
Rev. Dr. Susan Frederick-Gray spends her days strengthening the thriving mission of this faith. In her spare time, she enjoys being with her family and playing with their dog, Hercules.