Sandra Swan, president of Episcopal Relief and Development, will retire from that post late next spring, announced the Rt. Rev. Harry Bainbridge, chairman of ERD’s Board of Directors.  “We haven’t set a firm date,” said Bishop Bainbridge, “because Sandra has graciously agreed to remain in place until the new president is on board.”

Bishop Bainbridge made the announcement November 3 to the Episcopal Church’s Executive Council meeting in Boise, Idaho.

Over the past six years, Swan helped increase the agency’s program effectiveness and outreach, in addition to developing key program partnerships and relationships in and outside of the Episcopal Church.

Swan joined the organization, then called The Presiding Bishop’s Fund for World Relief, in 1999.  Episcopal Relief and Development changed its name the following year, to reflect its affiliation with the Episcopal Church and to highlight its work in long-term economic and social development programs.

During Swan’s tenure, ERD has grown significantly in both size and capability with programs extending throughout Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East. ERD’s programs for emergency relief following natural or civil disasters, and long-term development programs focusing on food security and primary health, including HIV/AIDS and malaria, have achieved recognition for careful management and building local capacity. 

One of many notable accomplishments is the completion of Faith, Hope and Joy community in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, after the devastation of Hurricane Mitch.  In a partnership with the Diocese of Honduras, Episcopal Relief and Development built over 225 homes, a health clinic, school, community center and a church with the assistance of 2,000 Episcopal volunteers. Since then, ERD has created other integrated community development programs in places such as Kosovo, Turkey, Belize, and El Salvador.

“I remember first meeting Sandra at the dedication of Faith, Hope, and Joy which saved and changed so many lives,” said the Rt. Rev. Lloyd Allen, Bishop of Honduras. “The Episcopal Diocese of Honduras is grateful to Sandra for her time, dedication, and tangible support to the diocese. Sandra and ERD have helped the Honduran people as we’ve struggled to overcome many difficulties,” said Bishop Allen. “She has played an important role in our lives and we wish her well.”

Under Swan’s leadership, the agency focused on programs that helped to build the capacity of local communities to become self-sufficient.  For example, a joint partnership between Episcopal Relief and Development and the Diocese of Cape Town prompted the establishment of H.O.P.E. Africa project in South Africa.  Now a separate agency, H.O.P.E. Africa is a social and economic program of the diocese which works with disadvantaged communities to identify their needs. 

Hailed as “a ministry of the whole church for the whole world,” Episcopal Relief and Development links the person in the pew with the needs of people around the world.  “I’m most proud,” stated Swan, “that we have worked with Anglican Churches around the world, partnering with them to help people who are suffering, regardless of their religious, ethnic or cultural affiliation.”

“ERD is in a wonderful place right now,” she said.  “The Board of Directors and management are working together extremely well to move the organization to new levels of effectiveness.  I am comfortable that I leave ERD strong and vital.”

Bishop Bainbridge pointed out that Swan has been tireless in her work on behalf of ERD.  “Sandra constantly held before us a vision for a relevant, effective ERD that has guided us during the past six years.  In addition, she also propelled ERD into a more active role in the international relief and development field, serving on the Boards of Directors of Church World Service and InterAction.”  

ERD’s Board of Directors has formed a Search Committee, and will welcome suggestions of candidates for the post of president.