Reverend Dr. Troy C. Underwood became the 28th Pastor of The First Baptist Church of Chicago on April 12, 2026. An ordained pastor and seasoned nonprofit leader, his ministry is rooted in helping individuals and communities flourish. He is known for inspiring action, strengthening partnerships, and advancing justice, mercy, and human dignity.
Previously, he served as Executive Director of the Barbara W. Smith Life Center, where he led administration, program development, and strategic growth. Under his leadership, the Center expanded its mission through innovative programming, strong community collaborations, and more than $3 million raised to support advocacy, social justice, mutual aid, youth development, and STEM initiatives.
Previously, he served as Executive Director of the Barbara W. Smith Life Center, where he led administration, program development, and strategic growth. Under his leadership, the Center expanded its mission through innovative programming, strong community collaborations, and more than $3 million raised to support advocacy, social justice, mutual aid, youth development, and STEM initiatives.
He is a respected preacher and speaker throughout the Chicago Metropolitan area. In addition to his ministry and nonprofit work, he serves on several boards. He is a graduate of Morehouse College (B.A.), Chicago Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and McCormick Theological Seminary (D.Min.). He is the devoted husband of Katherine Underwood, bonus father to Zecilia Ann Harris, and proud grandfather of Zaire Anthony Harris.
