Susan Kay Thayer, Senior Stewardship Coordinator on Influential Women
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Influential Woman · Higher Education and Philanthropy

Susan Kay Thayer

Senior Stewardship Coordinator, Duke University Health System

Durham, NC 27712

19Years experience

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary — Master's in Ministry to Women Degree Central Michigan University — Bachelor's of Fine and Applied Art, Graphic Art

Her Story

About Susan

Susan K. Thayer is an author, speaker, women's ministry leader, mentor, event planner, mother, and grandmother whose passion is helping women recognize God's faithfulness in every season of life. Through her writing, teaching, and personal story, she encourages women to embrace God's calling, navigate life's transitions with courage, and discover His fingerprints in both the joys and challenges of their journey.


Susan is the author of Love of Another Kind, a Bible study on the Song of Solomon, and The Seasons That Shape Us: God's Fingerprints in Life's Changes, a book exploring how God works through life's seasons of growth, loss, waiting, and renewal. Her writing reflects her deep love for Scripture, authentic faith, and the lessons she has learned through her own experiences of change, perseverance, and grace.


A frequent speaker at women's conferences, retreats, and church events, Susan has spent many years planning and leading programs that foster spiritual growth, meaningful relationships, and community among women. She is especially passionate about mentoring and encouraging women in leadership, helping them grow in confidence, deepen their faith, and serve effectively in their churches and communities.


With a background in communications, graphic arts, philanthropy, and ministry, Susan brings creativity, warmth, and practical wisdom to everything she does. Whether writing, speaking, planning events, or mentoring one-on-one, her greatest desire is to encourage women to trust God wholeheartedly and embrace the season He has placed before them.


Susan lives in North Carolina and treasures time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren, who continually remind her of God's goodness, faithfulness, and the beauty of every season of life.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Susan

01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to hold your plans loosely and stay open to growth. My career has evolved through several different seasons, each building upon the last in ways I never expected. From creative arts to philanthropy, writing, and ministry, I've learned that God often uses every experience to prepare us for what comes next.


For women considering ministry leadership, don't be discouraged by fields or roles that have traditionally been dominated by men. Stay faithful to the gifts God has given you, pursue excellence, and be willing to step through doors He opens. There may be challenges along the way, but there are also countless opportunities to lead, serve, influence, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.


Be willing to learn, adapt, and embrace change as new opportunities arise. Most importantly, stay grounded in your values and faith while remaining open to where God may be leading you. Often, the most rewarding paths are the ones we never planned, but they become the very places where our gifts, passions, and purpose come together to serve others and glorify Him.

02What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

I believe one of the greatest challenges for women in ministry today is balancing multiple responsibilities while remaining spiritually healthy and focused on their calling. Women often juggle family, careers, church responsibilities, and leadership roles, which can make ministry both rewarding and demanding. In some settings, opportunities for women to lead and use their gifts can also be limited. Yet I remain optimistic because I see God raising up women who are serving, mentoring, teaching, writing, and leading with wisdom and grace. My advice is to stay grounded in your faith, seek godly mentors, and never underestimate the impact God can have through a willing heart.

03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values that guide my life and work are faith, gratitude, service, integrity, meaningful relationships, and a commitment to helping others grow. Whether I'm writing, speaking, mentoring women, planning ministry events, or serving in my professional role, I want my work to encourage people, strengthen communities, and reflect God's faithfulness. Family is also deeply important to me, and many of the lessons I share come from the joys and challenges of walking through life's seasons with those I love. Ultimately, I want to use my gifts and experiences to serve others well and leave a positive impact wherever God places me.

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