Crystal E. Ward lives by her personal motto: “To inspire, to motivate, and to connect.”
She was recently elected to serve as Associate Ministerial Secretary for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, where she helps equip pastors and leaders around the world for effective ministry. In this global role, she combines her passion for leadership development, counseling, and spiritual leadership growth with her commitment to holistic soul care.
Prior to her current appointment, Crystal served as Executive Pastor at Spencerville Seventh-day Adventist Church in Silver Spring, Maryland. There, she integrated spiritual leadership with strategic oversight, guiding operations, administration, finance, and the management of ministry leaders and pastoral staff. In addition to preaching and pastoral care, she ensured that the church’s vision was effectively translated into meaningful action.
Crystal brings over two decades of leadership experience across corporate, nonprofit, and faith-based sectors. Before answering the call to full-time ministry, she held leadership roles at Citibank and JPMorgan, specializing in relationship management and financial analysis while honing her skills in leadership, strategy, and organizational development.
She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling. She also holds a Master of Divinity, a Master of Public Administration, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, and an Executive Management Certificate. She is a certified Life Coach and has completed pastoral training in Grief Counseling, Marriage Counseling (Prepare and Enrich), and Clinical Pastoral Education through the College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy.
In addition to her roles in ministry, Crystal serves on the board of the New Majority Capital Foundation, advancing initiatives that empower underrepresented entrepreneurs and communities.
Passionate about leadership, counseling, and coaching, Crystal equips individuals and organizations with tools to grow, lead, and thrive. She is dedicated to serving God in every aspect of her work, helping others unlock their full potential while staying rooted in faith and purpose.
Crystal deeply values family and community and finds joy in nature, hiking, and her new favorite pastime: pickleball.
Primary responsibilities
- Counseling Support: Provide counseling and coaching for pastors, leaders, and their families.
- Training and Development for Pastors and Leaders
- Leadership Development
- Conflict Management and Resolution
- Crisis Management
- Financial Literacy (Personal and Church)
- Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Training
- Customized Training – sessions can be tailored to meet specific organizational or individual needs.
- Podcast: Host and produce a podcast focused on leadership, emotional health, and ministry development.