Benjamin R. Knoll is the John Marshall Harlan Associate Professor of Politics at Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. He earned a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Iowa and specializes in public opinion and voting behavior, with a specialization in religion, race, ethnicity, and politics.

Cammie Jo Bolin is a Ph.D. student in political science at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Her research interests include gender and politics, representation, and religion and politics.

"She Preached the Word provides a detailed study of current attitudes in the US regarding the ordination of women in religious bodies. ... This book's conclusions are important for all who care about gender equity in life and religion in the US." -- CHOICE

"Knoll and Bolin are clear in their support of women's ordination and leadership across religious traditions, and She Preached the Word is a valuable contribution to this area of research." --Reading Religion

"Anyone who studies religion in America from any disciplinary direction should read She Preached the Word: Women's Ordination in Modern America. The book is also a must-read for any denominational or religious institution leader." --Reading Religion

"This book is a much-needed addition. In their thoughtfully argued and meticulously researched work, the authors offer a look at the social realities and political ramifications of the continuing influx of women into the ministry. At a time when women's opportunities for political leadership are expanding in general, this book is a welcome contribution."--Laura R. Olson, Professor of Political Science, Clemson University

"She Preached the Word is a wide-ranging, creative book that contributes in multiple ways to knowledge about female religious leadership. Its findings about how female clergy affect people in congregations-especially the women and girls-are especially original and compelling. This important book is a must-read for anyone who cares about gender equity in American religion, and who wants to know more about why it matters."--Mark Chaves, Professor of Sociology, Religious Studies, and Divinity, Duke University

"A needed re-examination of the issue of women's ordination after the elapse of several decades. Drawing upon literature not previously brought to the topic and placing their analysis and discussion within the context of initial research findings, this clearly written study utilizes a combination of different methodological approaches to examine both the factors shaping church-goers' support for women's ordination as well as the effects female clergy have on the religious attitudes and behavior of those in the pews."--Corwin E. Smidt, Calvin College