Rodney Barodte has been hired by CEF to fill the newly created position of Director of Relations. Rod brings a diverse background to the role. Before joining CEF, Barodte spent 7 years with Fifth Third Bank on the west side of Michigan. He was a customer relationship manager as well as a branch manager. His skills in seeking to learn the needs of a customer, listening to their goals, and also helping them succeed in achieving those goals, will be a valuable resource to churches, investors, and other CEF stakeholders. Rod will be traveling across the Michigan District to build relationships with pastors, church leaders, and CEF investors. Building and maintaining meaningful and long-lasting relationships are an integral part of CEF’s mission, and Rod will be on the leading edge of that effort. Says Barodte “I am very excited to work for CEF where I can use my experience and skills to help support CEF’s mission while helping ministries Build the Kingdom.” Rod and his wife, Alisha, along with their two sons, Judah (3) and Gabe (1) are members of New Hope Lutheran Church in Hudsonville.