Ann Kansfield

Ann Kansfield was born in Holland, Michigan, the daughter of Reformed Church of America (RCA) minister Norman and his wife Mary Kansfield. Her childhood was shaped by the Calvinist church and its conservative heritage. She enjoyed attending church, but influenced by the negative messages from TV evangelists was conflicted about her sexual identity. She attended Columbia University graduating with a degree in Women's Studies and History.

After college, she worked as a stockbroker at TD Waterhouse and later as an independent financial advisor. However, the 9/11 attacks prompted her to reflect on her career and ultimately led her to pursue a path in ministry. She earned a Master of Divinity degree from RCA New Brunswick Theological Seminary, where her father was president. She was ordained through the United Church of Christ, which allowed her to serve as a Reformed pastor despite the Reformed Church of America's stance against gay clergy.