Rev. Tom Berlin is Lead Pastor of Floris UMC. Tom was raised in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley and has lived in Virginia most of his life. He attended Virginia Tech and received a BS in business with a major in public administration. His Master of Divinity is from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. He is married to Karen, and they have four daughters. 

Tom began working at Floris UMC in 1997. As Lead Pastor of the church, Tom’s main responsibilities are to provide spiritual leadership to the congregation and staff of Floris UMC. He leads worship, preaches, shares the sacraments and enjoys teaching. Tom works with the Church Council to discern and cast the vision for the church and leads the staff to create ministry strategies. 

Favorite Bible verse: Romans 1:16-17

First job: Delivering papers for the Winchester Evening Star

Idea of a perfect day: Spending a day at the beach - any beach, any time

Ashley grew up in Virginia but has lived in Florida, London and New York, where she pursued a career in musical theatre. Ashley holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in musical theatre, but left the theatre in 2006 when she received a call to ministry. She received her Master of Divinity degree from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. in 2013. She has called Floris UMC her church home since 2010 and was overjoyed to join the staff in March of 2011. 

First Job: Working at Einstein Bros Bagels 

Favorite Bible verse: 2 Corinthians 5:17 

Most interesting vacation: Travelling through Europe with a good friend for two weeks in 2004

Jake is originally from New Orleans and is married to a woman who is way too good for him. He is a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and loves to cook and eat.

Jake gained much of his nonprofit experience from his work in disaster recovery in post Katrina New Orleans. Jake received his Bachelor’s degree from Louisiana Tech University in history and his master of Arts from Wesley Theological Seminary. He loves music, podcasts and old movies. Jake is also a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, having served two years in the Republic of Armenia. 

First job: Delivering pizza 

Favorite Bible Verse: Isaiah 58 

Idea of a perfect day: Practicing Jiu-jitsu, taking a long hike with his wife and dog and enjoying a delicious meal of grilled meats. 

Most people don't know this about me: Jake can clap with one hand. 

Most interesting vacation: Traveling through Turkey and Greece while serving in the Peace Corps.

Barbara spent her childhood years in Ohio. She attended school in Birmingham, Ala. so she could dance with a local ballet company and complete her degree in Christian education and fine arts. After graduation, she met and married her husband, Marty, and spent the next few years as a military spouse. She and Marty have three grown children. 

Barbara has served as a pastor at Floris UMC since 2006. As director of worship, Barbara’s main responsibilities are to offer vital, God-honoring worship in a variety of styles for the congregation. She also oversees Floris UMC's Care Ministry and takes pleasure in ensuring that compassionate, spirit-filled care is offered to those in crisis or times of difficulty. She enjoys preaching and teaching and considers it a privilege to be a pastor at Floris UMC. 

First job: Wrapping candy at a local candy factory in her hometown 
Favorite Bible verse: Isaiah 43:1-3 

Idea of a perfect day: Spending time with family and playing games, preferably on or near the water

Bob grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. He moved with his wife, Jill to Virginia in 2001. He received his Undergraduate Degree from Wabash College with a study abroad in Greece. He received his Master's Degree from Asbury Theological Seminary and Master of Divinity Degree from Duke Divinity. Bob started working at Floris UMC in 2018. 

Your idea of a perfect day 
Motorcycling to a lake in the mountains or a breezy coastal seaside to read a book while lounging in my camping hammock". 

Most people don't know this about me
Bob has journey to 18 different countries 

Tim is the pastor for Restoration Church, a satellite campus of Floris UMC, that started in 2014. Tim has a great love for the Reston community that seeks to "live, work and play" together. He loves to meet new people and engage them in conversation about their lives and about their faith. Tim and his wife, Susan, have three awesome kids.

Bible verse: John 10:10

Most interesting vacation: Spending a summer in Jakarta, Bali, and North Sumatra Indonesia

First Job: Making sandwiches at Subway

Rev. Tom Berlin is Lead Pastor of Floris UMC. Tom was raised in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley and has lived in Virginia most of his life. He attended Virginia Tech and received a BS in business with a major in public administration. His Master of Divinity is from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. He is married to Karen, and they have four daughters. 

Tom began working at Floris UMC in 1997. As Lead Pastor of the church, Tom’s main responsibilities are to provide spiritual leadership to the congregation and staff of Floris UMC. He leads worship, preaches, shares the sacraments and enjoys teaching. Tom works with the Church Council to discern and cast the vision for the church and leads the staff to create ministry strategies. 

Favorite Bible verse: Romans 1:16-17

First job: Delivering papers for the Winchester Evening Star

Idea of a perfect day: Spending a day at the beach - any beach, any time

Mark Rader is the executive director of Floris UMC. Mark is a Georgia native but has lived in Virginia the majority of his life. He received his bachelor's degree in business administration from Radford University and his master's degree in health administration from Duke University. Prior to joining the Floris UMC team, Mark had a 25-year career in hospital administration, working in Virginia, Georgia and south Florida. He and his wife, Amy, were married in 1989 and have a daughter, Helen.

As executive director Mark works to execute the vision of the church by ensuring that all focus areas—worship, serve, grow, share and give—are integrated across all ministries. Mark also ensures that the administrative operations of the church are effectively managed in order for programs to be properly supported.

Favorite Bible verse: Joshua 1:9

Idea of a perfect day: Watching his daughter ride her horse on a cool, crisp autumn day.

Most interesting vacation: Traveling to Israel in 2015—the most amazing experience of a lifetime.

Pam grew up in Arizona, Southern California and suburban Chicago. Her family’s roots are in Alabama, and she loved going back there every year when growing up. She graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science in business administration, majoring in accounting. She has three beautiful children and a wonderful son-in-law. Her family has attended Floris UMC since 1994. Pam began working at Floris UMC in June 2002 as the church secretary. Her role has changed over the years. Although she works closely with the communications team and others on staff, her primary responsibility is to provide administrative support to the lead pastor. 

Favorite Bible verse: Jeremiah 29:11 

First job: Helping at the front counter at Leo's Cleaners in Lisle, Ill.

Most interesting vacation: Traveling to the Holy Land with Floris UMC in 2011 and 2014.

Following a call to lay ministry, Bill joined the Floris UMC staff as a part-time employee in January 2013. In May 2013, he became the full-time director of Adult Ministries, and in March 2014, he became the director of Grow Ministries. In this capacity, Bill is responsible for the education, connection and group life of the congregation, which encompasses the Floris UMC Preschool, Children's Ministries, Student Ministries and Adult Ministries. 

Bill is a native of Pittsburgh, Pa. and a fan of anything Pittsburgh. He moved to the D.C. area to complete his Master of Business Administration at George Washington University in 1986. He and his wife of more than 30 years, Monica, moved to Northern Virginia in 1991 and became members of Floris UMC that same year. Bill is currently enrolled at Wesley Theological Seminary, pursuing a Master of Arts in theology. 

Before working at Floris UMC, Bill worked in the telecommunications industry for 14 years, serving in various senior management positions in finance, marketing and program management. Following an entrepreneurial spirit and his lifelong passion for art, Bill and his wife started a successful decorative arts company, and Bill later joined a McLean design firm as general manager. 

Bill and Monica have four wonderful children and Max—a pet store terrier that just happens to be the best dog in the world. Bill also loves art, the creative process, cooking and spending time surrounded by and in awe of God’s creation. 

First job: Working at Kaufmann’s Department Store 

Favorite Bible verse(s): Psalm 46:10 and Romans 12:2 

Idea of a perfect day: Eating anything ethnic outdoors, under an arbor in a vineyard or on the beach, surrounded by family and good friends, enjoying God’s incredible grace and love.

Barbara spent her childhood years in Ohio. She attended school in Birmingham, Ala. so she could dance with a local ballet company and complete her degree in Christian education and fine arts. After graduation, she met and married her husband, Marty, and spent the next few years as a military spouse. She and Marty have three grown children. 

Barbara has served as a pastor at Floris UMC since 2006. As director of worship, Barbara’s main responsibilities are to offer vital, God-honoring worship in a variety of styles for the congregation. She also oversees Floris UMC's Care Ministry and takes pleasure in ensuring that compassionate, spirit-filled care is offered to those in crisis or times of difficulty. She enjoys preaching and teaching and considers it a privilege to be a pastor at Floris UMC. 

First job: Wrapping candy at a local candy factory in her hometown 
Favorite Bible verse: Isaiah 43:1-3 

Idea of a perfect day: Spending time with family and playing games, preferably on or near the water

Tim is the pastor for Restoration Church, a satellite campus of Floris UMC, that started in 2014. Tim has a great love for the Reston community that seeks to "live, work and play" together. He loves to meet new people and engage them in conversation about their lives and about their faith. Tim and his wife, Susan, have three awesome kids.

Bible verse: John 10:10

Most interesting vacation: Spending a summer in Jakarta, Bali, and North Sumatra Indonesia

First Job: Making sandwiches at Subway

Carly was born in Washington, D.C. and lived in Rockville, Md. before moving to Northern Virginia when she was three years old. Carly and her family started attending Floris UMC in 1991. Starting at age 16, Carly worked at Floris UMC's nursery and continued to work there occasionally until she was 18.

Carly graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design. She then went on to complete her master's in graphic design at Savannah College of Art and Design.

After college Carly decided to move back to Northern Virginia where she met her husband. Carly and her husband now live in Herndon, Va. with their two young sons.

Carly began working at Floris UMC in 2015. Her responsibilities include designing all graphic materials for Floris UMC events and programs.

First job: Working in the Nursery at Floris UMC as a teenager.

Most interesting vacation: Traveling to Peru and hiking the Inca Trail in Machu Picchu.

Karen grew up in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley until finishing college and moving to the Northern Virginia area. Karen has a Bachelor of Arts in rhetoric and communication studies from the University of Virginia and began her career in the banking industry. She currently lives in Herndon, Va with her husband and three daughters. She began working at Floris UMC in June 2006. 

Karen manages the human resources area for the church, including payroll and employee staffing, and oversees daily financial operations in conjunction with the finance team. She enjoys the opportunity to serve God through her work in the church. 

First job: Waitressing in her hometown

Favorite Bible verse: Philippians 4:4-7, Philippians 4:13

Idea of a perfect day: Spending the day with her family outdoors or watching one of her favorite sports, live or otherwise.

Barbara spent her childhood years in Ohio. She attended school in Birmingham, Ala. so she could dance with a local ballet company and complete her degree in Christian education and fine arts. After graduation, she met and married her husband, Marty, and spent the next few years as a military spouse. She and Marty have three grown children. 

Barbara has served as a pastor at Floris UMC since 2006. As director of worship, Barbara’s main responsibilities are to offer vital, God-honoring worship in a variety of styles for the congregation. She also oversees Floris UMC's Care Ministry and takes pleasure in ensuring that compassionate, spirit-filled care is offered to those in crisis or times of difficulty. She enjoys preaching and teaching and considers it a privilege to be a pastor at Floris UMC. 

First job: Wrapping candy at a local candy factory in her hometown 
Favorite Bible verse: Isaiah 43:1-3 

Idea of a perfect day: Spending time with family and playing games, preferably on or near the water

Carol grew up in Northern Virginia and Brussels, Belgium. She graduated with a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Virginia Tech, where she met her husband, Mike. Carol, Mike and their three adult boys enjoy traveling together and cheering for the Hokies, the Nationals and the Steelers. Carol has been a member of Floris UMC since 1999.

Carol enjoys supporting the various care ministries at Floris UMC and coordinating memorial services at the church.

First Job: Summer camp counselor at the International School of Brussels

Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:6-7

Idea of a perfect day: On any vacation, hiking at a beautiful place with my family.

Eunbin grew up in Seoul, Korea where she received her Bachelor of Music and Master of Music in piano performance. While in Korea, she performed solo recitals and various chamber music, accompanied at the opera theatre and for numerous choirs. In 2001, she came to the United States, and graduated two years later from the San Francisco Conservatory with honors. In 2005, she earned her graduate performance diploma from the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University in piano performance. 

Eunbin has worked as a church accompanist at Sang-dong Methodist Church in Seoul, Korea and Berkeley UMC in Berkeley, Ca, and First Korean UMC in Herndon. She gives private piano lessons and is a member of the Music Teachers National Association, Northern Virginia Music Teachers Association and National Guild of Piano. Eunbin began working at Floris UMC in May 2014.

First job: Teaching private piano lessons

Favorite Bible verse: 1 Corinthians 13: 1

Idea of a perfect day: Spending time on the beach with her husband and daughter.

Yoon is from Seoul, Korea. She came to America to study music in 1996 at Indiana University where she earned her masters and doctoral degree in music. Yoon has two beautiful daughters who love music. Yoon started working at Floris UMC in August 2010. She has worked as music director for more than a decade at United Methodist churches.

First job: Giving piano lessons

Favorite Bible verse: Micah 6:6-8 

Idea of a perfect day: Enjoying a 70 degree day with blue skies, fresh air, beautiful clouds and a breeze, a cup of coffee with a piece of cake in a comfortable chair while talking with friends and family 

Most interesting vacation: Traveling to Bruges, Belgium with friends in 1994

Keri grew up in New York and Los Angeles before moving to Europe when she was in high school. She returned to California for college where she met her husband. They have three fantastic children. Keri began working at Floris UMC in 2015. She comes from a television production/live event background. In 2010 she created MediaKraft, a production company based out of Fairfax, Va.

Keri is very active as a volunteer producer/director for public access cable. She coordinates all the A/V needs for worship services and other events in the building, including the live stream crew at Floris UMC.

First Job: Working as an assistant audio engineer for a recording studio in Los Angeles. 

Idea of a perfect day: Watching her daughters play Lacrosse at the beach or on a fall day.

Most interesting vacation: Visiting Turkey and exploring its history and cultural diversity.

Megan spent her childhood in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, which is a small mountain town nestled between the Tennessee and Kentucky borders. Her family has a rich musical heritage, and many family gatherings were spent singing along with guitars, banjos, and tambourines. Megan received a Bachelors of Science and a Masters of Arts in teaching from James Madison University before beginning a teaching career in Fairfax County. For eight years Megan taught fifth and sixth grade at Floris Elementary, where she grew to love the Floris community. However, in 2015, she left the classroom to pursue a calling in worship ministry. Megan has been a vocalist and instrumentalist with the Floris UMC contemporary band, Full Circle Band, since 2008, which helped inspire her passion for worship and music ministry. She is now pursuing a certification in Christian studies at Wesley Theological Seminary. 

Megan is responsible for leading worship with Full Circle Band at the 9:15 a.m. contemporary music service and 5 p.m. contemporary service. She coordinates the band and aligns the music ministry with the sermons and vision of the church.

Idea of a perfect day: Exploring a new place and seeking out an adventure.

Most people don’t know this about me: Megan has been onboard a zero-gravity flight (aka the Vomit Comet)!

Most interesting vacation: Viewing the Northern Lights, hiking behind waterfalls, observing breaching humpback whales and eating shark.

Laura is a native of Northern Virginia and grew up in various United Methodist churches in the area as a minister’s daughter. She has a Bachelor of Arts in social science with a concentration in elementary education from Virginia Wesleyan College. Laura is married, has one son and enjoys living in Sterling, Va. with her family. 

Laura was the chair of the board for Handbell Musicians of America Area 3 from 2013-2015 and has worked as faculty at multiple Area 3 events. 

Laura began working at Floris UMC in January 1998. As the Handbell Coordinator, she directs all five of the handbell and chime choirs at Floris UMC.

First job: Working at Advanced Technology, Inc. in Reston Va. in 1984 

Favorite Bible verse: John 3:16 

Most people don't know this about Laura: She has studied music since the third grade and loves working with people of all ages and introducing them to the wonderful world of handbells!

Following a call to lay ministry, Bill joined the Floris UMC staff as a part-time employee in January 2013. In May 2013, he became the full-time director of Adult Ministries, and in March 2014, he became the director of Grow Ministries. In this capacity, Bill is responsible for the education, connection and group life of the congregation, which encompasses the Floris UMC Preschool, Children's Ministries, Student Ministries and Adult Ministries. 

Bill is a native of Pittsburgh, Pa. and a fan of anything Pittsburgh. He moved to the D.C. area to complete his Master of Business Administration at George Washington University in 1986. He and his wife of more than 30 years, Monica, moved to Northern Virginia in 1991 and became members of Floris UMC that same year. Bill is currently enrolled at Wesley Theological Seminary, pursuing a Master of Arts in theology. 

Before working at Floris UMC, Bill worked in the telecommunications industry for 14 years, serving in various senior management positions in finance, marketing and program management. Following an entrepreneurial spirit and his lifelong passion for art, Bill and his wife started a successful decorative arts company, and Bill later joined a McLean design firm as general manager. 

Bill and Monica have four wonderful children and Max—a pet store terrier that just happens to be the best dog in the world. Bill also loves art, the creative process, cooking and spending time surrounded by and in awe of God’s creation. 

First job: Working at Kaufmann’s Department Store 

Favorite Bible verse(s): Psalm 46:10 and Romans 12:2 

Idea of a perfect day: Eating anything ethnic outdoors, under an arbor in a vineyard or on the beach, surrounded by family and good friends, enjoying God’s incredible grace and love.

Carol is a native of Northern Virginia, born and raised in Fairfax. She earned a Bachelor of Science in public administration from George Mason University a Master of Arts in human resources management from Marymount University. She worked in human resources in the telecommunications industry before becoming a stay-at-home mom when her first child was born until she began working at Floris UMC in 2007. 

Carol is married to her husband, Dave, has two young adult children and two crazy Labrador retrievers who love to swim and chase tennis balls all day.

Carol worked for Floris UMC’s Communication department for 11 years and transitioned to the Adult Ministries department in 2018. As the Adult Ministries Coordinator, Carol is responsible for assisting the Director of Grow Ministries in executing the Lead Pastor’s strategic vision of the church by overseeing the development and execution of adult discipleship related programs and material. She also focuses on delivering a consistent, spiritual learning experience for adults who participate in discipleship activities that allows them to stay connected and to grow in their relationship with God.  

Idea of a perfect day: Spending the day on the beach with her husband, kids, dogs, family and friends. 

Most interesting vacation: Hiking through the rainforest in St. Lucia where she saw extraordinary waterfalls and exotic birds, animals and plants.

Annetta is a native of Connecticut, but she has lived in Virginia for more than 40 years. After retiring from teaching for many years, she joined the administrative staff at Floris UMC. Her responsibilities include answering the phones, ordering supplies for the various ministries of the church and scheduling baptisms. She also performs administrative tasks for the Small Groups ministry. 

She enjoys doing needlework and reading. She also enjoys gardening and traveling, especially taking cruises.

First job: Working as a secretary in her father’s office

Favorite Bible verse: Psalms 25:4-5 

Most interesting vacation: Cruising through the Panama Canal

Katie is originally from North Carolina. She attended UNC-Chapel Hill where she received a BA in secondary education and met her husband, Scott. She has lived in Northern Virginia for more than 20 years and she and Scott have raised their two children here.

As the Database Assistant, Katie is primarily responsible for tracking and reporting information from the church's database, FellowshipOne.

Your First Job: Sold clothes and toys at a small children's consignment store.

Idea of a perfect day: A sunny, warm day spent on a sailboat with my family and a great book.

Most interesting vacation: A cruise to Alaska - I'd love to go back and explore more of the interior of the state!

Bob grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. He moved with his wife, Jill to Virginia in 2001. He received his Undergraduate Degree from Wabash College with a study abroad in Greece. He received his Master's Degree from Asbury Theological Seminary and Master of Divinity Degree from Duke Divinity. Bob started working at Floris UMC in 2018. 

Your idea of a perfect day 
Motorcycling to a lake in the mountains or a breezy coastal seaside to read a book while lounging in my camping hammock". 

Most people don't know this about me
Bob has journey to 18 different countries 

Megan is originally from a very large extended family in the Philadelphia area and was fortunate to spend her summers on the Jersey Shore surrounded by her large family.

She spent many of her post college years working and living in a handful of different states throughout the US. This is her second time living in Northern Virginia and happy to call it home. Although she earned her degree in Psychology and Education, she spent most of her career in Finance and Real Estate and always found time for a side gig in Hospitality or Customer service. After working for a handful of corporations in finance and even starting three companies of her own, her priorities shifted when she became a mother to her amazing daughter.

As a Mom, Megan continued to be self-employed wearing lots of hats, so she could focus on her daughter. She most recently has volunteered with a few non-profits in the area but found she made a significant difference, giving back and connecting others in the school and within the community as the PTA President of her daughter's elementary school for the last 2 years.

Your idea of a perfect day: Spending time on the beach with her daughter, family and friends having great conversation and not having to leave until the sun goes down!

What is the most interesting vacation you have ever taken?: A solo backpack vacation to San Francisco in which I ended up not taking my flight home so I could stay to live and work.

acqueline grew up in Argentina and Bolivia and graduated from Autónoma Juan Misael Saracho University in Tarija, Bolivia with a degree in psychology. She is married to Rosen Todorov, a native of Bulgaria. 

Jacqueline has been working at Floris UMC since 2006. She is responsible for the worship, small groups and service opportunities for the Spanish speaking individuals within the congregation. Jacqueline encourages Latinos to attend Sunday service at 9:15 a.m. in which Floris UMC offers a simultaneous translation in Spanish. 

As a cancer survivor, Jacqueline enjoys life to the fullest and admires God's creation. She has tremendous compassion for immigrants and for those who suffer with illness. 

Favorite Bible verse: Luke 6:31

First job: As a psychologist working with orphans and adolescents, as well as with groups of mothers at SOS Children's Villages in Tarija, Bolivia 

Idea of a perfect day: Helping someone and having a personal moment for her faith to grow.

Donna was born and raised in California and moved to Virginia in 1983. She grew up attending University Christian Church in Berkeley, Calif. Donna is married and has three grown children, two beautiful grandchildren and five small dogs. She has fun attending several Small Groups at Floris UMC—a great way to meet people!

Donna began working at Floris UMC in 1989 when it was just her, the pastor and the choir director on staff, and she did everything but clean the windows! It has been a thrill for her to watch this small church on the corner grow into such a large presence that affects many areas in this community. She now reports to the director of serve ministries, and her job consists of supporting all local, community and worldwide Serve Ministries. 

First Job: Working as a receptionist for a construction company in California 

Favorite Bible Verse: Romans 8:38-39 (Donna found this scripture in her mother’s wallet the day she passed away and has kept it with her ever since.) 

Idea of a perfect day: Laughing with her grandchildren, family and good friends 

Most people don't know this about Donna: She's really tall—being short is just an illusion! 

Most interesting vacation: Visiting North Africa in the 1970s.

Kelly grew up in Japan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Oklahoma. She has a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education from the University of Central Oklahoma and a Master of Arts in education from the University of Virginia. Kelly has over 25 years of teaching experience ranging from kindergarten through high school. While living in San Antonio, Texas and homeschooling her two daughters, Kelly also worked as the assistant director in children's ministry at a large church, was active in Girl Scouts at the regional level for over 12 years, wrote for various educational publishing companies and worked as a homeschool book and product reviewer online. Her adventures with Floris UMC started in January 2014 when she left Texas to move to Virginia and became the new children's ministries director. She has one daughter in college and one daughter in high school plus two adorable dogs. Kelly loves to incorporate creativity into the programs that she leads and loves to see children smile when they talk about Jesus. 

First job: Working in a library shelving books, checking out books for people, answering reference questions and creating book displays

Favorite Bible verse: Psalm 46:10

Most people don't know this about Kelly: She was a medical simulation scenario patient in Texas who helped train medical students for real-life scenarios.

Renee Williams joined Floris UMC in January 2014. She grew up in a military family and was a military spouse. She has lived in 10 different states and now calls Virginia home, where she lives with her husband and two amazing children. Renee has a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from Auburn University, and she has worked on NASA's Space Shuttle Program at two NASA space centers. After years of volunteering as a Sunday school and Vacation Bible School teacher, Renee was thrilled to change careers to one in which she could work with children. Renee's responsibilities include planning and implementing the many fun and exciting Floris UMC programs for children in preschool through elementary school. Renee loves working with children of all ages. In her spare time, she enjoys distance running and hanging out with her children. 

First job: Reshelving books and working the checkout counter at a public library in Florida

Favorite Bible verse: Jeremiah 29:11

Idea of a perfect day: Going on a long, early morning run on a warm, sunny day, spending the rest of the day at Disney World with her family and later relaxing at a resort pool.

Wendy was born and raised in Northern Virginia and graduated from Chantilly High School. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in health and recreation management from George Mason University and her Master of Arts degree in management from American Public University. Wendy has worked for Fairfax County Parks and Recreation and has served as an adjunct professor for APU. Wendy was overjoyed to join the Floris UMC staff in January 2013, and loves helping share God’s love to the children of Floris UMC.

First job: Working at Total Crafts in Chantilly, Va.

Favorite Bible verse: 2 Corinthians 5:17

Idea of a perfect day: Doing something fun outside such as going to the zoo, apple picking, having a fun day at the beach or going to a local farm with her two sons, daughter and her husband.

Most interesting vacation: A trip to Europe with stops in Ireland, Scotland, England, Paris and Holland.

Debbie became the preschool director at Floris UMC in May 2014. Floris UMC Preschool is the fourth preschool that Debbie has had the privilege to run in her career. Previously, she was a director in Warner Robins, Georgia; Hampton, Virginia; and Fairfax, Va. Debbie has a Bachelor of Arts in education from Arizona State University. She grew up in Tallahassee, Fla. where her parents still live today. She met her husband, Scott, when she was 15 and married him several years later. Debbie and Scott traveled the country while Scott served in the Air Force for 21 years. They settled in the Northern Virginia area in 1997 and have two grown children. Debbie enjoys the challenge of running a preschool with 170 children and 20 staff members. Her responsibilities include communicating with parents, church staff, teachers and, of course, playing with the preschoolers (obviously the best part of every day)! 

First job: Being a summer camp counselor at First Baptist Church in Tallahassee

Favorite Bible verse: Matthew 19:26 and Philippians 4:13 

Idea of a perfect day: Skiing down the mountains in Breckenridge, Colo. with her family or sitting on the beach with a good book and a cool beverage. 

Most people don't know this about Debbie: She is an avid sports fan, especially college sports! 

Most interesting vacation: Exploring the Caribbean islands with her family on a week-long cruise.

Dan was born in Seoul, South Korea but has lived in different parts of Virginia since he was two and a half years old. Dan, his wife, Jessica, and their daughter, Elie, moved to Northern Virginia at the beginning of 2018 to join the team at Floris UMC after previously living in the Virginia Beach/Norfolk areas. After high school, he received his undergraduate degree from James Madison University and received his Master's of Divinity at Regent University in Virginia Beach. Dan enjoys music, movies, cooking, eating, exercise, cars and all things technology, he also loves having the opportunity to equip and empower future generations as they become the next wave of this world's game-changers.

Dan is responsible for helping the Student Ministries department as they provide discipleship opportunities to the middle and high school students of Floris UMC. Program areas include their weekly small groups, large group events such as Krew and CrossRoads, and other events and activities to engage and encourage our student body.

First Job: Personal auto detailing "business" when I was 15.

Favorite Bible Verse: Matthew 6:33, "Seek first..."

Idea of a perfect day: Sightseeing with my family and dining at amazing restaurants.

Danielle is a Northern Virginia native, Latin dancer, fitness and nutrition enthusiast, a lover of all things in nature and an adoring wife. She attended the University of Virginia and earned her bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies and earned her master's degree at George Mason University in Conflict Analysis and Resolution.

Danielle joined the Floris UMC staff with enthusiasm for finding God in the most ordinary daily activities. As she coordinates and supports logistics for Student Ministries, she finds fulfillment in bringing people together to experience the love of God.

Favorite Bible verse: "Most of all let love guide your  life..." Colossians 3:14

Idea of a perfect day: Marveling nature by day and dancing salsa by night.

Most people don't know this about me: Danielle makes a delicious dairy-free chocolate pudding out of avocados.

Pepe spent his younger years in Tennessee or on military bases, but he somehow settled in Northern Virginia. He graduated from George Mason University after studying psychology and conflict resolution. He is married to Kelly, and they have three wonderful children.

Pepe started working at Floris UMC in December 2016 as the interim middle school coordinator and transitioned to the middle school program director in March 2017.

First job: Working with the Youth Conservation Core

Perfect day: Spending time with family doing something outdoors

Carly was born in Washington, D.C. and lived in Rockville, Md. before moving to Northern Virginia when she was three years old. Carly and her family started attending Floris UMC in 1991. Starting at age 16, Carly worked at Floris UMC's nursery and continued to work there occasionally until she was 18.

Carly graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design. She then went on to complete her master's in graphic design at Savannah College of Art and Design.

After college Carly decided to move back to Northern Virginia where she met her husband. Carly and her husband now live in Herndon, Va. with their two young sons.

Carly began working at Floris UMC in 2015. Her responsibilities include designing all graphic materials for Floris UMC events and programs.

First job: Working in the Nursery at Floris UMC as a teenager.

Most interesting vacation: Traveling to Peru and hiking the Inca Trail in Machu Picchu.

A citizen of the world. Zeresh was born in Karachi, Pakistan. She have also lived in China, Thailand and the US. A journalist-turned-communications officer, Zeresh am passionate about storytelling and the serial comma.

Zeresh am a tireless advocate for the equal rights and economic empowerment of women around the world. Zeresh has a BA in Journalism and Sociology from the University of Karachi. She moved to Clifton, Virginia from Chicago in 2019, and am overjoyed to be a part of the Floris UMC community.

Favorite Bible Verse: For with God nothing will be impossible. -Luke 1:37

What is the most interesting vacation you have ever taken?: The Biblical Tour of Egypt

Dylan was born and raised in Hagerstown, Maryland. He continues to live in Hagerstown and commutes nearly 135 miles daily to be a part of the church communications team. 

Dylan began college at Bridgewater College outside of Harrisonburg, Virginia. Virginia became a special place for Dylan, which is what ultimately led him to Floris UMC. He loves the people of Virginia and enjoys serving the people of the church and the greater community. 

While he started at Bridgewater College, Dylan eventually would finish his bachelor's degree at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, where he majored in political science with a concentration in analytics and public policy.

Dylan is responsible for all of Floris UMC and Restoration Church's social media platforms, as well as all of the content and events being posted on the pages. He is dedicated to keeping everyone up-to-date and bringing them an amazing social media experience.

First job: Folding clothes at Sears
Favorite Bible verse: Psalms 23:1
Most interesting vacation: Spent the entire summer just traveling through Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

Carly earned a bachelor's degree in public relations and biology. She pursued a career in design after college as a hobby and it morphed into a career. She has clients in several states and loves the diversity that the field provides. 

As a graphic designer extraordinaire and branding specialist, Carly creates images and page layout for the Restoration Church campuses. She also manages brand standards for the sites and is happy to assist with the design needs of the staff.

Your First Job: Lifeguard

Most people don't know this about me: Carly has appeared in Extreme Boat magazine.

Most interesting vacation: Morocco. So cool!

Karen grew up in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley until finishing college and moving to the Northern Virginia area. Karen has a Bachelor of Arts in rhetoric and communication studies from the University of Virginia and began her career in the banking industry. She currently lives in Herndon, Va with her husband and three daughters. She began working at Floris UMC in June 2006. 

Karen manages the human resources area for the church, including payroll and employee staffing, and oversees daily financial operations in conjunction with the finance team. She enjoys the opportunity to serve God through her work in the church. 

First job: Waitressing in her hometown

Favorite Bible verse: Philippians 4:4-7, Philippians 4:13

Idea of a perfect day: Spending the day with her family outdoors or watching one of her favorite sports, live or otherwise.

Erin grew up in Northern Virginia. She earned her bachelor and master degrees at the College of William and Mary. She lives in Herndon with her husband, Paul, and their dog, Theo. She enjoys dancing, singing, exercising and spending time with family and friends. Erin loves being on staff at Floris UMC. Her primary responsibilities include account reconciliation, payroll and financial reporting and analysis. 

Idea of a perfect day: Eating good food and watching movies with her husband 

Favorite Bible verse: Hebrews 11:1 

First Job: Working in a souvenir store.

Peggy is a native Washingtonian, having grown up in Falls Church. She studied accounting at NOVA. Peggy and her husband, Mark, have two lovely children and a black lab named Shadow. She has three older brothers, 'The Beech Boys', who also live in the area.

Peggy's responsibilities at Floris UMC include processing building usage requests; maintaining guests and membership data, and assisting with the coordination of large church community events. 

First job: Soldering printed circuit boards, and wire wrap and making cables for computers for military contracts

Favorite Bible verse: Psalm 23 

Idea of a perfect day: Relaxing by the water, reading a good book and being around family

Most interesting vacation: Off-roading in Bryce Canyon, Utah with her husband and kids.

Debbie moved to Northern Virginia from New England as a child. She has lived all over Northern Virginia, but has settled into Centreville, where she raised her family. She earned a bachelors degree in Mathematics and Scientific computing at the University of Virginia, and a master of arts degree in Practical Theology from Regent University. She is married, has two grown children, and one grandchild (so far). She enjoys reading, knitting, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.J

Debbie is responsible for administrative support to the Finance Office. She performs financial transactions and keeps records for the church.

Favorite Bible verse: Romans 12:1-2
The perfect day: A day full of sunshine and family.
Most interesting vacation: While vacationing at Club Med Ixtapa, I learned to fly on the trapeze!

Terri was born in Massachusetts but was raised in sunny southern California. She returned to the east coast to make Herndon Virginia her home in 2011. The "apples of my eye" are my four children; Joshua, Nicholas, Haley and Hunter. I have been on many paths from restaurant owner to computer software rep to the director of resources for a southern California food bank. I am blessed that Floris UMC is where I find myself today.

My responsibilities working for Floris UMC include making sure the front office and all the staff are supported. I look forward to meeting old and new friends each and every day.

Favorite Bible verse: Psalm 91:4

The perfect day: Time spent with my children and friends.

Most interesting vacation: Exploring a castle in the countryside of Switzerland.