AEC Transitions and Thanks

Alumni Executive Committee Welcomes New Leaders, Honors Outgoing Members

Between November 1 and November 14, General Seminary alumni cast nearly 100 votes in an impressive show of engagement to elect new leaders of the Alumni Executive Committee (AEC). We are thrilled to announce this new slate of officers, each of whom are deeply committed to supporting General Seminary and our alumni community.

Meet the New Executive Team and Representatives

President of the AEC: The Rev. Canon Lee Ann D. Tolzmann, ’01 A lifelong Episcopalian, Lee Ann Tolzmann has journeyed through multiple dioceses, making a significant impact in each. Sponsored for ordination by the Diocese of Maryland, she graduated from GTS in 2001. Her ministry includes serving parishes in Maryland and Connecticut, culminating in her role as Diocesan Transition Minister in the Episcopal Church in Connecticut until her retirement in 2021. Residing in Greenville, SC, and Manhattan with her husband David, Lee Ann has been an active AEC member since 2020, driven by a passion for supporting the Seminary’s mission to form ordained leaders for the 21st century.

Vice President of the AEC: The Rev. Evan Fischer, ’92 Evan Fischer, who has served on the Alumni Executive Council for two years, recently retired after 25 years of ministry in his last parish. With a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to GTS, Evan is honored to take on the role of Vice President and looks forward to furthering his support for the Seminary.

Secretary of the AEC: The Rev. Ryan Zavacky, ’23 Ryan Zavacky, called as Curate at Christ’s Church in Rye, New York, graduated from GTS in 2023, where he served as Community Council President for 2.5 years. Now serving in New York, he retains canonical residency in West Missouri. Ryan is eager to bring his passion for community and leadership skills to his new role as AEC Secretary.

Three-Year Representatives

• The Rev. Spencer D. Cantrell, ’18 Spencer serves as Priest-in-Charge at Saint George’s Church in Astoria, Queens. With a rich pastoral background and deep experience in pastoral care, Spencer brings both compassion and dedication to his role on the AEC. He continues his theological journey as a D.Min. candidate at the University of the South.
• The Rev. George Baum, ’09 George has held many roles during his years at GTS, including sacristan and Chief Chimer. Now serving at St. Timothy’s in Massillon, Ohio, George brings extensive experience from his work with the Commission on Ministry and as a Deputy to General Convention. He and his wife Cristin, married for 34 years, enjoy playing music together with their band, Lost And Found.
• The Rev. Jenn Allen, ’20 A 2020 GTS graduate, Jenn is the Priest-in-Charge at Trinity Episcopal Church in Lawrence, Kansas. Her background as Kansas Diocesan Missioner for Creation Care, where she established a garden-based ministry, highlights her passion for connecting faith with environmental stewardship.

We look forward to seeing the continued impact of this new AEC team as they support General Seminary and our alumni community with their dedication, vision, and faithful leadership. Thank you to everyone who voted, and especially to our outgoing members for their years of service. As we welcome our new leaders, we also extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who have completed their service on the committee. Leading the AEC with dedication, The Rev. Susan Wrathall (President) has served for more than 15 years in various capacities, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to GTS and its mission. We also express our appreciation to The Rev. (Deacon) Denise LaVetty (Secretary) and The Rev. Daniel Ade (Vice President) for their significant contributions and faithful service. Their work has shaped the AEC, fostering meaningful connections within our alumni community and strengthening ties with the seminary.