African American Church Evangelism Institute
Partnering with Pastors to Cultivate Conversion Growth
The African American Church Evangelism Institute is catalyzing a movement of evangelism and mission in communities through local African American churches across the country.
59% of churches across America are either plateauing or declining, 31% of churches are growing primarily through transfer growth and only 10% of churches are growing significantly through conversion growth. Through a two-year cohort, pastors learn how to revitalize their congregation by becoming “conversion communities”, where churched and unchurched people come to faith, grow in their faith, and become more welcoming places for young Millennials and Gen Z.
Meet Our Director
Brandi N. Williams is our Director for the African American Church Evangelism Institute.
She is also the lead writer for our Growing Younger curriculum.
Brandi is a TEDS graduate (M.A., Theological Studies) and holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership from Eastern University.
Her research explores how Black megachurch leaders understand their role in facilitating entrepreneurship initiatives within the African American community, examining the theological convictions, cultural frameworks, and leadership perspectives that shape this work. Her work highlights the Black Church as a catalyst for business creation and a driver of economic solutions within the African American community.
Brandi has over 15 years of ministry and nonprofit experience, including program development, event management, business development, Gen Z discipleship, preaching, teaching, and workshop facilitation. She has served within several predominantly African American megachurch ministries such as Salem Baptist Church of Chicago, New Life Covenant Southeast in Chicago, and Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Nashville.
Brandi leads AACEI in its overall vision, strategy, direction, and branding. As a member of the research team, she also champions pastors and churches to effectively reach and develop Gen Z.
