Rev. Syeeda J. Echols is a theologian, author, and leadership coach who equips others to live and lead from the presence of God. Her work bridges education, ministry, and leadership development to help people cultivate character, faith, and purpose in every sphere of influence.

Her calling to lead began in the classroom. As a Teach For America alumna and international educator, Syeeda spent years teaching and training others across the U.S., Venezuela, and Guatemala. Those early experiences shaped her heart for developing people, inspiring her to pursue ministry and equip leaders beyond the walls of education.

Syeeda earned her Master of Divinity in Ministry Leadership from Baylor University’s George W. Truett Theological Seminary, where she also served as a Resident Chaplain. She later ministered as Associate Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Greater Bosqueville Baptist Church in Waco, Texas, and as a hospital chaplain in Honolulu, Hawaii, providing spiritual care and guidance across diverse communities.

Today, she serves as Director of Religious Education, leading programs that form leaders and strengthen faith-based communities. Through her writing, teaching, and leadership training, she continues to help others embody integrity, humility, and love in their daily lives.

Her debut book, Set an Example: How to Lead Others and Live Out God’s Presence in the World (True Vine Publishing, 2025), empowers readers to live out the charge of 1 Timothy 4:12, to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.

When she is not teaching or writing, Syeeda enjoys hiking, traveling, and spending time with her family.