Kathleen Moore Mallory

Kathleen Moore Mallory served as corresponding/executive secretary of WMU, SBC from 1912 to 1948. She led WMU through the Great Depression, two world wars, and the depths of denominational debts for 36 years, a tenure unequaled so far. Her leadership was vital in saving the denomination from financial disaster on more than one occasion.

Miss Mallory guided WMU to be a partner in forming the Cooperative Program, creating the reputation of being the strongest supporter. People carried indelible memories of the little woman who did not mind kneeling in public prayer in the face of good news or bad.

WMU events that occurred during the tenure of Kathleen Mallory:

1. WMU operating expenses amounted to 4/5% of money raised. (1912)
2. WMU published its first yearbook. (1912)
3. WMU chose its first hymn of the year, "Joy to the World." (1913)
4. WMU published its first full-length guide to WMU work, the Manual of WMU Methods, written by Miss Mallory. (1917)
5. WMU adopted the term "fundamentals" to describe these purposes: individual and united prayer; regular Bible and mission study; systematic and proportionate giving; organized personal service. (1918)
6. WMU moved its corporate headquarters from Baltimore, Maryland, to Birmingham, Alabama. (1921)
7. The title "corresponding secretary" was changed to "executive secretary." (1937)
8. WMU began providing funds for secretarial assistance to the president. (1940s)