About Us
Rev. Dr. Cynthia F. Burse
Founder/Executive Director
Rev. Dr. Cynthia F. Burse is the founder and Executive Director of The House of Redemption (THOR), a Columbus, OH 501(c)(3) non-profit created to serve the long-term residential needs of inmates transitioning out of prison and back into the broader society. She received her Master of Divinity from Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, GA, concentration: New Testament, and her Doctor of Ministry from New Brunswick Theological Seminary in New Brunswick, NJ, concentration: Prisons, Public Policy and Transformative Justice. Rev. Burse, a retired clergy member of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) denomination, has served as a congregational minister and in varying leadership capacities within and outside of the PCUSA. In her own words, “Everyone has a story, including those languishing in jails and prisons, most of whom have lived experiences most of us on the outside know nothing about. Part of my story is that I heard GOD call THOR into being, and over a period of more than ten years—years that included a lot of heartache, disappointments and ‘no’ for an answer—The House of Redemption became a living entity, and in 2024 hosted a successful re-entry transition from incarceration containment back into the broader society. The most exciting news is that THOR’s reentry model can be utilized by any organization serving in-need populations. The only requirement is that capitalism—dare I say greed—not be the driving factor. Our success rests on the principle of everyone having enough.”
Our Leadership
Ms. Diane Briscoe McKenzie
Trustee
Dianne Briscoe McKenzie is a resident of Denver, Colorado, and an honorably retired Denver County Court Judge. Prior to her appointment as a judge, she served as the Senior Assistant City Attorney for the City and County of Denver, addressing matters pertaining to employment, airport contracts, and dependency and neglect cases. Dianne has served as president and historian of the Sam Cary Bar Association, the Colorado Bar Association Board of Governors, the Shaka Franklin Foundation Board of Trustees, and as Advisory Council for the Office of Colorado’s Child Protection Ombudsman. Some of her numerous awards and honors include the Outstanding Volunteer Award from the Shaka Franklin Foundation for Youth, the Martin Luther King, Jr., Humanitarian Award from the MLK CO State Commission, and the Woman of the Decade Award from the Colorado Gospel Music Academy and Hall of Fame. Dianne is a member of Montview Blvd. Presbyterian Church in Denver and an ordained Elder in the PCUSA. She previously co-chaired Montview’s Anti-Racism Trust Team and has served on the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy, where she chaired the committee responsible for informing the General Assembly, the national church body, on matters pertaining to voter disenfranchisement. Her life has been, is and will continue to be guided by service to God and serving others in need.
Rev. Dr. Joan R. Harrell
Trustee
A scholar and ordained clergy woman in the American Baptist Church and public theologian, Dr. Joan R. Harrell works to bridge the gap between faith and the broader secular society. She implements theological frameworks and creates community dialogues to engage public issues, advocates for social justice and is committed to uplifting the “Voice of the Voiceless.” A former full-time journalist, Dr. Harrell now teaches journalism for the School of Communication and Journalism at Auburn University, where she is also the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Programs for the Dean’s Office in the College of Liberal Arts, and is the founder and moderator for the “Becoming the Beloved Community” Humanity Dialogue. Dr. Harrell’s scholarship investigates how the intersectionality of AI, racism, classism, xenophobia, religious, intolerance, racial terror, environmental injustice and public health inequities perpetuate oppression in communities of faith and the society at large.
Ms. Faith Chaney
Trustee/Treasurer
Faith Chaney is a dedicated and service-driven customer service professional with a passion for helping people and building meaningful relationships. As a Customer Service Representative with AnywhereWorks, she provides exceptional support to businesses around the world, demonstrating professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to delivering outstanding customer experiences. Beyond her professional career, Faith is actively involved in her community and her faith. She is a devoted member of Greater Glory Empowerment Temple, where she faithfully serves and supports the church's mission. She also serves as the Treasurer of the THOR Board, where she is responsible for overseeing financial matters with integrity, accountability, and transparency. Faith is known for her strong work ethic, leadership, compassion, and dedication to serving others. Whether assisting customers, supporting her church, or contributing to community organizations, she strives to make a positive impact through excellence, integrity, and a heart for service.