Meet the Pastors & Staff
WUMC is a member of the Reconciling Ministries Network, and is dedicated to building a more diverse community of committed Christian servants. Our motto is “Christ-Centered. Engaged in Community. Sharing God’s Love.”
Rev. Louise (Lou) R. Seipel
Lead Pastor
Lou Seipel (she/her) was appointed as the Lead Pastor in November of 2021. Originally from North Carolina, she holds a B.A. from Greensboro College and a M.Div. from The Methodist Theological School of Ohio. She has a heart for spreading the gospel, community building, mission and hospitality. She believes that no one should ever wonder if they are welcome in the house of God. Where love is, grace abounds.
Rev. Tad Grover
Interim Pastor
The Leadership Board is delighted to announce that Reverend Tad Grover will serve as our interim senior pastor from January 1 through June 30. Tad, a retired United Methodist minister with extensive experience, is also a beloved member of our congregation. This unique perspective makes him especially well-suited to lead us during this time of transition as we prepare to welcome our next senior pastor in July. Tad will partner with our staff and lay leaders to provide spiritual care and guidance in the coming months. To learn more about the many gifts Tad brings to us, please read his ministry statement (https://drive.google.com/…/1HyTByZwwCo1aSyw9JkKNUq…/view).
Rev. Dominic Short Mejia
Associate Pastor
Dominic J. Short Mejia (he/him) was appointed Associate Pastor in July 2021. Originally from Bryan, Ohio, he holds a B.A. from Ohio Wesleyan University and a M.Div. from the Boston University School of Theology. Dom’s areas of interest include mercy and justice ministries, practical theology, and the intersections of pop culture and faith. He believes God calls the church to be in solidarity with those on the margins.
Ashley Gerard
Director of Discipleship from Birth to Young Adult
Ashley Gerard (she/her), Director of Discipleship from Birth to Young Adult, has been on staff since June of 2013. She has a degree in Human Development and Family Science from The Ohio State University, and a Master of Practical Theology degree from The Methodist Theological School in Ohio. She has a heart for camp ministry and seeing the next generation in leadership. She believes the Church should welcome all.
Jarod Ogier
Director of Music
Jarod Ogier (he/him), Director of Music, oversees all music activities and conducts the Chancel Choir and Jubilee Ringers. He holds degrees in Vocal Performance and Musicology from Otterbein College and The Ohio State University, respectively. Jarod also holds a M.A. in Public Policy and Management from the John Glenn College of Public Affairs at Ohio State. His interests include ensemble music making and building generational pathways for musical participation in the church.
Tim Byrer
Children’s Music Ministry
Tim Byrer (he/him) holds a Bachelors of Music in Music Education from Capital University. He began his time at the church as Tenor Section Leader and soloist in February 2014. He continues to sing with the choir, and took on the role as Director of Children’s Music Ministry in the fall of 2021. With this position, Tim is responsible for the Children’s Choir, Children’s Handbell Choir, and all music during Vacation Bible School. He loves making music with people of all ages!
Mindy Go
Financial Manager
Mindy (she/her) earned a B.S. in Mathematics from Davidson College, and has worked in software development, project management, and business analysis. In her role as Financial Manager, Mindy continues the excellent work of past Financial Managers, keeping accurate accounts and records and ensuring the financial vitality of WUMC.
Eddie Jarrell
Facilities Manager
Eddie is responsible for management and upkeep of all church facilities and vehicles.
Craig Kramer
AV & Office Technology Manager
Craig is responsible for operation of our AV facilities and office network, and for training all our AV volunteer staff. He has bachelor’s degrees in Physics (with minors in Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Geology and Biology) and in Math-Science Education. He also has a master’s degree in Science and Environmental Education.
Danielle Wright
Director of Communications & Office Manager
Jessica Sapp
Director of Communications
Jessica (she/her) has been on staff since December of 2015. She has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Miami University, and a master’s degree in Management of Information Systems, with a focus on Project Management, from Keller University. She manages the church website and social media pages, and creates the monthly newsletter and Sunday slides for worship.
For general information and questions, please contact the church office.
[email protected] or 614-885-5365