Rev. Dr. Waltrina N. Middleton

Executive Director

A Passionate Leader for Justice and Community Renewal

Community Renewal Society’s 13th

Executive Director

Rev. Dr. Waltrina N. Middleton has made a global impact as a passionate preacher and keynote speaker. She has shared her vision and message of faith, love and justice in diverse settings worldwide, including the World Council of Churches Forum, National Council of Churches, The Carter Center, Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference and as part of a United Nations delegation.

As a poet, activist, vocalist, social critic, community organizer and healer, Rev. Dr. Waltrina N. Middleton remains committed to actualizing the vision of a Beloved community, embracing the principles of Ubuntu: "I am because we are. We are because God is."

Human Rights Advocacy and Social Justice Activism

Committed to human rights advocacy and social justice activism, Rev. Middleton founded Walk on Water Global Ministries, Diaspora Dialogues and Cleveland Action in response to systemic needs in their community and society at large. These organizations have engaged in global efforts to address police brutality, state-sanctioned violence and cultural immersion experiences linking U.S. students and activists with their global counterparts.

As the third Associate Dean of the historic Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel, Rev. Middleton emphasized community building and expanded the chapel's social justice engagement beyond the campus. They co-led Howard University students on healing journeys, introduced inclusive language and fostered ecumenical and interfaith partnerships.

Honors and Educational Background

Rev. Middleton has received numerous honors, including Rejuvenate Magazine's "40 Under 40 Professionals to Watch" and the "Jonathan M. Daniels Memorial Fellowship." She holds a Master of Divinity from Chicago Theological Seminary and a Doctorate of Ministry from Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School.

National Minister for Youth Advocacy and Leadership Formation

Rev. Middleton served the United Church of Christ for six years, transforming the National Youth Event by focusing on faith, leadership, service and social justice. This approach challenged youth participants to envision themselves as the future today and significantly increased attendance.

At Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, Rev. Middleton led efforts around earth justice, creation care and their connection to urban centers and food deserts.

Read Articles Written by Rev. Middleton