This past month, Shirley Dobson announced her retirement from the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute's (JDFI's) Board of Directors. Shirley selflessly served as the board's secretary since JDFI's inception in 2010. Through her time of unwavering commitment, JDFI's ministry has grown to impact millions of families with a gospel-driven message centered on God's redeeming grace and truth. At this same meeting, Danae Dobson was appointed as the newest JDFI board member.
Shirley is Dr. James Dobson's wife and has been instrumental in various ministries, beginning with her own family. A graduate of Pasadena College (now Point Loma University), Mrs. Dobson earned a Bachelor of Arts in education, and also received honorary doctorate degrees from Asbury Theological Seminary, Biola University, Huntington College, and Dallas Baptist University. Upon graduating from Pasadena College, she taught in the Hudson and Arcadia Unified School Districts in California. After she married and had her first child, she chose to become a stay-at-home mom. Shirley and Jim have two adult children, Danae and Ryan, and two grandchildren.
Beginning in 1991, Shirley proudly took on the role as chairperson of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, and served in that capacity for 25 years.
Through the task force's efforts, tens of thousands of prayer gatherings were established and conducted across the country with thousands of volunteers. The Lord truly blessed Shirley's obedience to His call of taking The National Day of Prayer to new heights. Mrs. Dobson is also an accomplished author, having published numerous books with Gloria Gaither, her husband, Dr. James Dobson, and one with her daughter, Danae. Shirley also had the honor of being named Christian Woman of the Year in 1992.
Dr. Dobson shared the following statement regarding these recent board changes:
"Shirley and I have been married for over 63 years. She holds a special place in my heart like no other, and her devotion to the Lord has made her an effective leader in all areas of life. While her presence as a board member will be missed, she will still greatly influence my leadership and the ministry as we continue to carry out JDFI's mission. At the same time, I am pleased that my daughter, Danae, has become our newest board member. Like her mother, she is a godly woman with exceptional leadership qualities, and this ministry is blessed to have her."
Danae received her bachelor's degree in communication from Azusa Pacific University in California. She has an active speaking ministry and has authored 24 books, including the popular Woof! children's series that was spun off of her original story. These best-selling books have sold over 400,000 copies and have also been released in the United Kingdom and Indonesia. Other works include Parables For Kids (co-authored with Dr. James Dobson), the Forest Friends series, and the Sunny Street Kids' Club series. Danae has also written two inspirational books for adolescent girls: Let's Talk!, and, Let's Walk the Talk! Her most recent publication, Welcome to Our Table, centers on the topic of hospitality and was co-authored with her mother.
As the JDFI board of directors embarks on this new chapter, we extend our deepest gratitude to Shirley Dobson for her years of dedicated service. We pray that God will continue to bless her with good health and the fullness of His love. She will be missed.
Respectfully,
The JDFI Board of Directors
Joe Waresak, President