Her Story
About Kathryn
Kathryn Campbell is a pastor serving in the Presbyterian Church USA. She has been working in ministry since 2002 and was formally ordained in 2009. Her educational background includes a BA in Kinesiology from Hope College in Holland, Michigan, an MA in Sports Psychology from the University of Minnesota, a Master of Divinity from Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, and a Doctor of Ministry. She serves as president of the Association of Partners in Christian Education, an international organization focused on faith formation for all ages. Campbell attributes her success to her calling from God, the leadership qualities and experiences that have shaped her, and the support of her family. She emphasizes values such as time management, rest and reflection, transparency, humor, listening, and humility with strength and a sense of self. In her work, she focuses on rebuilding trust with marginalized communities, pushing back against Christian nationalism, and creating safe spaces for people to connect with God through one-on-one conversations and pastoral care.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kathryn
01What do you attribute your success to?
Not me. The first rule of youth ministry is it's not about you, it's about the youth or the people you're serving. But it's about you because you're in that role. But it's not about you because it's about God and how God is at work. It's about how I've been called to this, the leadership qualities I've been afforded, the experiences that have shaped who I am as a pastor. It's also about the people around me, my family who support me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't wear your microphone into the bathroom, and don't wear heels to a burial. But more seriously, I am called to this. I have checked all the boxes. I need to be confident that what I say matters, have all the same credentials, and not minimize myself. Pause and reflect on achievements when doubting.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Recognize the importance of healthcare and boundaries. The art of the pause before answering. Saying no is a full sentence. Trust your gut and the Holy Spirit. Don't be afraid to speak out. Don't minimize yourself.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Undoing the ways the church has harmed people and rebuilding trust with marginalized people who don't trust the church. Pushing back against Christian nationalism and cherry-picking verses used as weapons. It's hard but done through one-on-one conversations and building trust, like throwing starfish back in the sea.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Time management, recognizing I can't and shouldn't do it all. Focus on rest and reflection like during sabbatical. Cross, transparency in admitting I don't always have all the answers, humor, listening, humility with strength and sense of self.
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