Libby Janes Appointed New Director of the Synod Partnership for Disaster Recovery

After a thorough search process, the Leadership Team of the Synod Partnership for Disaster Recovery (SPDR) is pleased to announce the appointment of Elizabeth “Libby” Janes as the new Director.

Libby is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience in hospital, counseling, and community social work settings. She holds a Master of Divinity from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, a Master of Social Work from Texas Tech University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Austin College, where she majored in Religious Studies and History and minored in Anthropology and Nonprofit Organizations & Public Service. Libby is certified as call-ready for ordination as a Minister of Word and Sacrament and currently serves on the PC(USA) Task Force to Explore the Theology and Practice of Ordination.

“She brings an excellent background in social work and a wide range of church experience,” said Synod Leader and Stated Clerk Mitch Miller, “but, more importantly, a servant’s heart and a clear demonstration of the love of Christ.”

At the recent Synod Assembly in El Paso, Libby reflected on her lifelong call to ministry and shared formative experiences from her years in social work. Now stepping into her new role as Director of the Synod Partnership for Disaster Recovery (SPDR), she spoke of her hope to strengthen relationships, celebrate shared strengths, and explore new possibilities for ministry together. During the gathering, Libby also led the assembly in prayer for the people of Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and other Caribbean islands affected by Hurricane Melissa.

“We are excited for the future of SPDR with Libby at the helm,” said Miller. “She brings all the gifts and skills we are looking for in a director—someone who will lead our partnership into the next era of growth and development. Her experience and knowledge give us the confidence to expect great things in the coming years, and we are sure that the Synod Partnership for Disaster Recovery will thrive under her wisdom, enthusiasm, and deeply spiritual understanding of servant leadership.”

Libby can be reached at her email address (libby.janes@synodsun.org) or by calling the Synod phone at 214-390-1894.