08/04/2011

Eva Roby Named New President of the ELCA Mission Investment Fund

CHICAGO (ELCA) - On August 4, the Board of Trustees of the Mission Investment Fund of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) named Eva Roby as their new president, effective September 1. She replaces outgoing president Christina Jackson-Skelton, who will assume her duties as executive director of the Mission Advancement unit of the ELCA churchwide organization on that date.

Mission Investment Fund board president Harold Mueller applauded the choice, praising Roby for her "unique combination of financial industry knowledge, ELCA-related experience and a passion to lead the organization in its mission to serve (this) church. The Trustees look forward to supporting Eva and her management team as they carry out the work of growing congregations and agencies of the ELCA."

Christina Jackson-Skelton, outgoing Mission Investment Fund president, has worked with Roby since 2002, when Roby joined the Mission Investment Fund as executive vice president for administration.

"It has been my privilege to share leadership with Eva over the past nine years," said Jackson-Skelton. "It was a time during which the Mission Investment Fund grew from an asset base of $380 to $640 million, with $450 million in loans now at work supporting ministries throughout the ELCA.

"Eva is a brilliant leader, committed to supporting the growth of this church and to maintaining the strength and security of the Mission Investment Fund for its investors. I am confident that Eva's record of outstanding performance will continue in this expanded role as she continually seeks new ways to support and strengthen the capacity of ELCA ministries so that the good news of God's love in Christ can be shared more fully."

ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson extended his congratulations, noting Roby's contributions to the Mission Investment Fund's significant growth in assets, deposits and loans during her tenure. "Eva has a strong conviction that the Mission Investment Fund is vital to the ELCA's commitment to start new congregations. In challenging economic times she will provide leadership marked by integrity, continuity and creativity. How privileged we are to have her build upon the work of a strong Board of Trustees, gifted staff and the exceptional leadership of Christina Jackson-Skelton."

Roby responded, "I am humbled and thankful for this opportunity. The confidence and trust in my leadership means a great deal to me. In the coming years, I am committed to ensuring that Mission Investment Fund will continue its vital ministry of supporting new congregations while serving as a missional, competitive and secure investment option for the members and ministries of this church."

Roby has over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. She graduated from Chicago State University with a degree in accounting and is a candidate for her master's of business administration from North Park University. In addition, she has a certificate in nonprofit management from North Park University. Roby is a member of Bethel Lutheran Church in Chicago, Ill.