Meet the Staff
The staff at McKendree know how to get things done... and have fun doing it! They are people with a servant's heart and are here to help you live and grow in your faith. Check out what they say about themselves and take a minute to look up their favorite Bible verse.
Cyndi McDonald
Senior Pastor
"I grew up in Georgia, and met my husband Ed while at Georgia Tech. We have two sons, Matt and Mark. For ten years, I taught investments and portfolio management at LSU and at the University of Missouri. Essentially, I told stories about how the markets work and how to tease financial stories out of company reports. I'm still telling stories, but now they are the most amazing stories of all... of a God who loves us, and will do anything to be in relationship with us.”
Verse: Ephesians 3:16-19
Paula Dallas
Assistant Pastor
"I have been married to Eric for 36 years. And we are the grateful parents of one son, Anthony, and grandparents of one granddaughter, Paige and one grandson Amir. Eric and I love to travel, attend live musical concerts, and spending time with family and friends."
Verse: John 10:10b (CEB Version)
(If you don't know the verses listed under the staff bios, go on and open up that Bible. By the power and love of God, it could change your life!)
SEAN BUTLER
Director of Music Ministries
“I am proud to direct a Christ-led music ministry at McKendree UMC and to make a joyful noise with the choir, handbells, and orchestra. I’ve served as music director at various churches after moving here from New York in 2020. I cherish the opportunity to work with folks with varied musical backgrounds—all are welcome!” Verse: Psalm 121
ALISON TROYER PRICE
Director of Children's Ministry
“I love the children of McKendree! It is a joy to get to be a part of our choir family and sing, & dance, & share the love of Jesus! I also have the pleasure of being a mama to 4 wild women, and wife to my sweet husband.” Verse: Psalm 103:1
JENN STRICKLAND
Dir. of Student Ministries
“Hey there! I'm Jenn! I have served in youth ministry for nearly 10 years. I am passionate about walking through life with students and helping them seek Jesus at every turn; I am honored to be doing so at McKendree. Verse: Matthew 11:28-30
KARLA McHUGH
Administrative Assistant & Financial Secretary
"I have had the pleasure of serving God at McKendree for over 20 years. I love spending time with my children and grandchildren. My family, friends and church are everything to me." Verse: Romans 8:28
TRACEY BROWN
Financial Administrator
"I am a wife, mom, and grandma, and I love my job at McKendree UMC."
Verse: Joshua 1:9
SARAH HOW
Assistant to Student & Children's Ministries
“4th gen. United Methodist raising the 5th gen. in the loving community of McKendree UMC where everyone is welcomed and cherished.” Verse: Jude 1:2
ANN PERRAS
Director of MUMC Preschool
MICHELLE BALISE
Director of Preschool Operations
“Mom of 2, dog mom, and married for 25 years. MUMC has been a part of my life for nearly 20 years. I am honored to be part of the amazing Preschool ministry and to see the lives of little ones and their families develop over the years.”
Verse: 1 Corinthians 16:14
LORETTA PATRICK Wedding Director
“I have been a part of McKendree UMC for over 20 years. I love helping couples with their special day and have been Wedding Director for almost 10 years. It's been a joy and honor to assist in this way! “ Verse: Psalm 23:6
Eric Dallas
Facilities Manager
JESSICA FORE
Worship Leader
“I'm a singer/songwriter based in Athens. I love channeling musical talent into worship! I enjoy writing, recording, playing concerts, teaching guitar and selling real estate.” Verse: Romans 5: 3-5
JULIE BELFIELD
Wednesday Night Supper Coordinator
"I have many years of experience coordinating community dinners, as well as owning and operating my own catering firm."