Gaynor Yancey is Director of the Center for Church and Community Impact (C3I) at Baylor University’s Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. 

By Erin Hill and Mallory Herridge

Dr. Gaynor Yancey is a lifelong champion for social justice, seamlessly weaving her deep faith into a career dedicated to creating a more equitable world. A pivotal figure in her field, she literally wrote the book on congregational social work, shaping the way both faith communities and social workers approach issues of justice and faith. Her extensive work within congregations has focused on dismantling systemic barriers related to race, poverty, disability, and LGBTQ+ inclusion, guiding communities through vital discernment processes. Her work champions a vision of care that embraces and loves all people rather than promoting an exclusionary gospel.

Dr. Yancey’s approach is deeply intentional, working from within existing structures to ensure they consistently move towards just and equitable outcomes. Beyond her impactful scholarship and community engagement, she is known for the profound value she places on relationships, investing deeply in her students and mentoring future generations of justice-minded leaders. Her unwavering commitment and profound insights make her an invaluable asset in the ongoing pursuit of a more just society.

—Erin Hill is a program manager and Mallory Herridge is the assistant director at C3I.