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Willard J. Houghton Medal Awarded to Johanna Rugh

May 5, 2026

Today, we celebrate a leader whose ministry is defined by the breaking of barriers, the building of tables, and an unyielding commitment to the formation of those called to serve. We honor Reverend Johanna Rugh鈥攁 daughter of Costa Rica, a scholar, a pastor, and a history-maker within The Wesleyan Church.

Johanna鈥檚 journey is one of profound discernment and kingdom leadership. From her early calling to her pastoral service at El Monte Wesleyan Church, she has modeled what it means to lead with both grace and strategic excellence. Her academic journey鈥攕panning a Bachelor鈥檚 in Christian Ministries, a Master of Divinity from Wesley Seminary, and doctoral pursuits at Asbury Seminary鈥攔eflects a mind dedicated to the rigorous preparation required for the high calling of clergy development.

Johanna has progressed from a local church leader into a critical architect within The Wesleyan Church through service as an assistant district superintendent as well as fulfilling pivotal roles within Spanish Ministry Education and Formation.聽 Her denominational leadership is illustrated by the lasting impact of her overhaul and modernization of the FLAMA program to ensure that quality ministerial training was accessible to every Hispanic student across the United States and Canada. Her work with the Thrive Financial Initiative further demonstrated her holistic care for the personhood of the pastor, addressing the practical needs of those who labor in the vineyard.

Johanna possesses a 鈥減erfect fit鈥 of leadership experience and spiritual passion. Her exemplary service as the Executive Director of Education and Clergy Development over the past 3 years illustrates for each of us what it looks like to faithfully and fearlessly pursue God鈥檚 calling on our lives. Her commitment is to ensure that within the leadership of the church there is 鈥渞oom at the table鈥 for each of our sisters and brothers.

Johanna is an encouraging leader who brings out the best in everyone, and we thank her husband, Robert, and her children, Naomi and Joseph, for sharing her with the global church. Her dedication to our Hispanic sisters and brothers, her advocacy for women in ministry, and her joy-filled service to the Kingdom, is recognized for her visionary leadership and faithful service to The Wesleyan Church.

President Wayne D. Lewis Jr. presents Rev. Rugh, with deep gratitude and joy, the Willard J. Houghton Medal.

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