The New Bern District

Rev. Dr. Erlinda C. Dobson’s ministry makes a lasting impact. Fifty-one years ago, at Pleasant Hill AME Zion Church, she answered the call to share God’s grace and make disciples. Today, Dr. Dobson helps pastors and churches address generational shifts, declining attendance, and decreased giving, equipping congregations to thrive despite these challenges.

Drawing on her experience, Dr. Dobson helps pastors lead congregations to spiritual and financial growth. Under her guidance, two churches expanded facilities debt-free. One congregation, amidst recession, built a $2.5 million church through biblical stewardship and budgeting, acquiring property, paying off loans, and reducing the new mortgage debt to less than $700,000. Her leadership enabled churches to improve stability. As treasurer and finance chair for the North Carolina Conference of the AME Zion Church, she advances financial integrity throughout the region.

Dr. Dobson's academic achievements span several institutions. She earned an associate degree from Craven Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Mount Olive. She also holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Theology and Ministry from Carolina Theological Institute and Seminary, as well as Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Hood Theological Seminary.

Dr. Dobson’s educational preparation complements her broad leadership as a community pastor and presiding elder. She is known for her commitment to service in many roles. She serves on boards such as the North Carolina Conference, the Trustee Board, the Board of Elections, the Democratic Party, the NAACP, Friends to Black Children, the Council of Churches (as a delegate), the MLK Celebration, Watchman of the Community, Weed and Seed, and chairs Juvenile Justice.

Dr. Dobson’s board service demonstrates her deep commitment to the community. As a leader, she planned workshops on health issues like prostate awareness, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and aging. Her partnership with Affordable Care enabled uninsured people to access health services. The Northeast Community Development Corporation honored her leadership with an award in her name, and recognitions like the Order of the Long Leaf Pine (2013), the Ole North State Medical Society gold medal, the Sojourner Truth Award, and the Bishop Alfred G. Duston Award highlight her impact on public health, advocacy, and ministry.

Amid her professional and community roles, Dr. Dobson values family. She and her husband, Mr. Hank J. Dobson, have six children, 17 grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. She is devoted to her mother, Mrs. Lelia C. Becton, and cherishes her extended and adopted family. Dr. Dobson credits their support as essential to meeting challenges.

Dr. Dobson’s unwavering pursuit of excellence and devotion to faith powerfully unite her public ministry and personal life. This inspiring unity shines through her motto: “We must raise the bar and call followers of Christ to a higher standard and make disciples.”