Rev. Patricia Washington-Rice is a distinguished Christian leader, accomplished public servant, and passionate advocate for community empowerment. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Psychology from South Carolina State University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Hartford. She has also completed specialized training in Labor Relations and Test Construction and Validation at Cornell University and studied at Hartford Seminary.

Rev. Washington-Rice devoted nearly 40 years to public service, including 26 years as Human Resources Director for the City of Hartford and later serving as Human Resources Director for the Town of Glastonbury until her retirement in 2015. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to ethical leadership, organizational excellence, and community well-being.

A visionary faith leader, she is President of the Winners’ Circle Group, a faith-based organization serving unwed mothers, underprivileged children, and senior citizens. She leads its Annual Women’s Retreat and has written and participated in numerous Christian plays and outreach initiatives. She is also active in Freedom Trail and Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad programs in Windsor, Connecticut, and is a dedicated member of the NAACP.

In October 2013, Rev. Washington-Rice was appointed Pastor of Beulah A.M.E. Zion Church in Bristol, Connecticut. Under her leadership, the congregation has experienced meaningful spiritual, structural, and community growth. Previously, she served on the ministerial staff of Spottswood A.M.E. Zion Church in New Britain, where she was honored by the YWCA with the Women in Leadership Award. Most recently, she was recognized by the Bristol Branch NAACP for her continued commitment to community service and leadership.

Rev. Washington-Rice is a devoted servant of God who is passionate about preaching, teaching, and empowering others through the Gospel. 

She is the proud mother of two adult children: Rev. Dr. Byron Washington and Sabrina W. Sales-Batchelor, MBA and three granddaughters – Gabrielle Nia, Edna Carleece and Deborah Serenity.