Speakers

Dr. James R. Thomas is a distinguished educator, pastor, author, and retired United States Air Force Reserve Lieutenant Colonel whose career spans more than five decades of leadership in theology, higher education, public service, and community engagement.

Currently, he serves as Associate Professor of Church and Ministry at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary of Lenoir-Rhyne University in Columbia, South Carolina, where he teaches courses in Christian mission, faith formation, stewardship, worship, peace studies, and African Descent traditions. He also serves as Director of African Descent Outreach for Region 9 of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Dr. Thomas holds an impressive academic background that includes a Ph.D. in Education Policy and Administration from the University of Minnesota, a Master of Sacred Theology from Union Theological Seminary, a Master of Science in Education from the City University of New York, a Master of Divinity from Christ Seminary-Seminex, and a Master's Degree in Special Education from Bank Street Graduate School of Education.

Throughout his ministry, he has served congregations in New York, Minnesota, and South Carolina and has held significant leadership positions within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, including Assistant to the Bishop of the Minneapolis Area Synod. His commitment to service also extended to the military, where he served as a chaplain in the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard, including response efforts following the September 11, 2001 attacks.

A respected scholar and public theologian, Dr. Thomas is the author of A Rumor of Black Lutherans and numerous articles addressing African American religious history, ministry, peacebuilding, and social justice. His contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including the Lenoir-Rhyne University Humanitarian Award, the Herman W. and Elizabeth Cauble Faculty Distinguished Service Award, and recognition from the United States Congress.

Through his teaching, writing, ministry, and public service, Dr. James R. Thomas continues to inspire faith leaders, students, and communities with his commitment to education, justice, reconciliation, and servant leadership.

Patricia "Pat" Sayler is a dedicated community leader, equine therapy advocate, and longtime member of the Rotary Club of the Stroudsburgs. Throughout her years of Rotary service, she has exemplified the organization's guiding principle of Service Above Self, contributing her time, expertise, and leadership to initiatives that strengthen communities throughout Monroe County and beyond.  

Pat has also devoted much of her professional life to improving the lives of individuals with physical, cognitive, emotional, and developmental challenges through equine-assisted services. She served as Executive Director of Equi-librium, Inc., a nonprofit therapeutic riding and carriage driving center in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, for more than two decades, leading the organization from its early years into one of the region's premier equine-assisted therapy programs.  

Through her work at Equi-librium, Pat helped expand opportunities for children and adults to experience the healing and empowering benefits of therapeutic horseback riding. Her leadership has been recognized throughout the industry, and she has been described as an early pioneer in equine-assisted services whose innovative approach, commitment to safety, and dedication to professional standards helped shape the field nationally.  

Within the Rotary Club of the Stroudsburgs, Pat has been actively involved in the club's foundation and grant programs, helping direct resources to organizations and projects that make a meaningful difference in the community. Her efforts have supported education, health, human services, and numerous local initiatives that improve the lives of others.  

Whether through Rotary, philanthropy, or her lifelong commitment to healing through horses, Pat is known for her compassion, vision, and unwavering dedication to serving others. Her work continues to inspire those around her and demonstrates the powerful impact of combining professional expertise with a genuine passion for community service