AWAB Hires Communications Coordinator

AWAB is pleased to announce that beginning on March 1, James Rice III will take on the role of Communications Coordinator. After a thorough search process which included 15 applicants from across the country, Rice was chosen to fill this integral role to empower AWAB to move its mission and vision to the next level of ministry.

Executive Director, Brian Henderson, states, “We couldn’t be more pleased to welcome James to our team. James will bring experience, expertise, and enormous sums of energy to this position. We anticipate that the ever evolving trajectory of AWAB’s reach and impact will only keep expanding as James brings his passion to our welcoming and affirming work.”

Director of Development, Natalie Aho, comments, “The Communications Coordinator is a key position in the growth of AWAB. What a gift we have found in James! He is someone who understands Baptists and the AWAB mission and vision, is an expert in communication strategies, and has an abundance of joy for life. Pay attention to what’s next for AWAB…there’s sure to be lots of glitter and rainbows in our future.”

Board Chair, Bob Sittig adds, “We are so pleased to welcome James into the AWAB family. The skills that he brings to our organization are essential for spreading the message of equality for all God’s children. Welcome aboard James!”

James Rice III (He/His) is a minister, life coach, and seasoned communications professional. He holds his B.A. in Communication from Queens University of Charlotte and has been active in his local queer community since 2013. Before joining AWAB, James started his career as the Director of Communication on the boards of Charlotte Black Pride and the Carolinas LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Most recently, he was the Associate Director of Communications and Community Partnerships for Time Out Youth Center. A self-described “Son of a preacher man,” James has been in church his whole life. He was baptized as a child at the historic Rock Hill Baptist Church (Ridgeway, SC), was ordained in his family’s outreach ministry at age thirteen, and currently serves on the media ministry team at AWAB member church, St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church (Charlotte, NC). James is known for his infectious charisma, captivating speaking, and unapologetic authenticity. “I am the sum of all my parts,” James said. “I am Black, I am Gay, I am a Minister, and I’ve learned I never have to choose between them.” James’ commitment to social justice and intersectionality is reflected in his awards as a rare double recipient of top honors from both Charlotte Pride and Charlotte Black Pride. Receiving the Harvey Milk Award in 2019 and the Heart of the Community Award in 2021 respectively. James currently lives in Austin, Texas, but is excited to return to his friends and family in the Carolinas before year’s end. Outside of work, James is a true millennial who loves binge-watching House Hunters and being the best “Guncle” in the world to his nine nieces and nephews.