St. Petersburg – The board of directors of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance of Florida (IMA) has selected Rev. Markus‑Derek White, pastor of Historic Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, to become the organization’s next chief executive officer and president. White will assume the position on Nov. 11, 2027, following a transition period that allows him to complete his doctoral studies and tend to his growing family.
Transition plan and membership vote
Current leader Rev. JC Pritchett II, who has guided IMA since 2024, announced the succession plan this week. The board’s decision still requires approval from the alliance’s membership, which is scheduled to vote on Oct. 28. Pritchett said the vote is expected to pass without dissent.
Why White was chosen
“White represents the next generation of faith leaders in Tampa Bay,” Pritchett explained. “He is the full package and will lead our organization in confronting the challenges that face our community for the next 100 years.” White’s three‑year tenure as the 35th pastor of Historic Bethel, one of St. Petersburg’s oldest Black congregations, includes experience leading churches in Tampa and a master’s degree from United Theological Seminary. He is also pursuing a doctorate.
IMA’s mission and ongoing priorities
Founded in 1925, IMA brings together Christian, Jewish, Muslim and other faith leaders to advocate for underserved residents, especially in South St. Petersburg. Its work spans voter education, poverty reduction, HIV/AIDS awareness, opioid‑epidemic response, affordable housing, and equitable redevelopment. The alliance continues to push for the Legacy Center on the historic 22nd Street South corridor and for responsible redevelopment of the former Tropicana Field site, which displaced many Black families.
Redistricting, voting‑rights protection and access to polling places remain high on the agenda as the 2028 elections approach. White said his early focus will be listening to congregations and community leaders, strengthening relationships, and working toward the goal of doubling IMA’s membership.
Personal notes from the new leader
During a recent interview, White’s 8‑month‑old baby bounced on his knees while he worked from his church office. “I’m on double duty today,” he laughed. He emphasized that the transition timeline—postponing his start date from 2026 to 2027—was designed to give both men time to address organizational matters and ensure continuity.
Looking ahead
White described his vision as still unfolding, adding, “I’m still praying.” He plans to spend the coming year meeting with faith communities across the region, hearing their concerns, and building on IMA’s tradition of unity amid diversity. “We can’t do anything unless we are together,” he said. “The blessedness is in our diversity. Diversity is our strength.”
Pritchett, who looks forward to a less demanding chapter with more time for family, friends, and occasional bourbon and prosecco, expressed confidence in White’s ability to lead. “I know how horrible it can be when someone holds onto power too long,” Pritchett noted. “We need to make room for other men and women to come up.”
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
