Riverbend Staff
We Invite you to get to know the men and women on the Riverbend Staff.
Pastors
| Dr. David Haney, Senior Pastor |
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Andrew Carpenter, Missions |
| Peter Sleeper, Executive Pastor |
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Carlton Dillard, Creative Arts |
| Norm Schoenfeld, Church Involvement |
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Kip Nanninga, Student Ministry |
| Paulette Schwartz, Care & Recovery Ministries |
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Mike Robertson, Mid-life Adults |
| Connie Borcherding, Children's Ministries |
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David Sunde, Young Adults |
| Dean Busboom, Senior Adults |
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Thom Temperli, Young Adults Associate |
Directors
| Keary Bailey, Executive Director of Remembrance Gardens |
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Scott Matteson, IT Director |
| Judy Barker, Christian School Assistant Director |
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Joe McKenzie, Facilities and Ground Director
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| Kim Farr, Finance & HR Director |
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Daniel Ramirez, Communications Director |
Brian Gorham, Children's Ministry Assistant
& Preteen Director |
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Barbara Shepherd, Mid Life Adult Ministry Director |
| Paula Hetherly-Barton, Christian School Director |
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Jason Shuck, Student Ministry Director |
| Lisa Macs, Nursery Director |
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Theo Smith, Front-line Ministries Director |
| Troy Marx, Events/Technical Director |
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CJ Thomas, Student Ministry Director |
Todd Mears, Assistant Children's Minister
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Administrative Staff
| Linda Bell, Finance Coordinator |
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Lisa Robertson, TV & Video Producer |
Sharon Dillard, Riverbend Centre Manager
& Executive Assistant for Church Communications |
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Krista Ross, Events & Maintenance Assistant |
| Chase Gassaway, Music Assistant |
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Linda Smith, Pastoral Care & Recovery Assistant |
| Kassie Gassaway, Student Ministry Intern |
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Susan Spears, Children's Ministry
Production Coordinator |
| Alicia Hudson, Riverbend Christain School office Manager |
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John Ward, Audio Engineer |
| Susie Keck, Creative Arts Coordinator |
|
Chris Weihl, Executive Assistant |
Support Staff
Dr. David Haney, Senior Pastor
dhaney@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Lead Spiritual Architect
Education & Ministry Experience: Degrees from Dallas Theological Seminary and Biola University. In ministry for over 35 years, 28 years as a Senior Pastor. Involved in preaching and teaching in churches and communities across the country and around the world.
How Long at Riverbend: Came to Riverbend from the San Francisco Bay Area in 2005
My Favorite Things: My Wife and Daughters; Family and Friends; Sports and Sports Cars. Philly Cheesesteaks, In-N-Out Burgers, El Chile Queso Flameado, My mom’s Blueberry Pancakes, My wife’s Chicken Casserole. I’m a sucker for John Grisham Novels, or anything by Donald Miller, David Sedaris, Chuck Klosterman, Dave Barry, Mike Robertson or The Apostles John or Paul.
Peter Sleeper, Executive Pastor
psleeper@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: My main responsibility is to support our Senior Pastor by providing strategic guidance to all of our ministries and pastors. I also work closely with the Church Council, and the Coordinating and Personnel Committees.
Personal Ministry Calling: For several decades our society has been in the process of shifting from a culture of church goers to a culture with no church experience. I believe that God has called me to figure out what the Church needs to become in order to help post-Christian people find Christ. God has always recreated the Church for every new time and every new culture and I am excited to be part of that process.
Ministry History & Education: I graduated from the University of California, Berkeley in 1988 with a degree in Economics. After a short time at Fuller Seminary, I went to work as a manager and a buyer at a large Bay Area retailer and then as an accounts manager for a small tech company in the Silicon Valley. In 1994 I felt called back to ministry and renewed my pursuit of a Master of Divinity at Western Seminary. After graduating I spent several years as a pastor of small groups, singles and young adults. In 2001, I became the executive pastor of a large church in the Bay Area, where I also worked with Dr. Haney.
How Long at Riverbend: In 2005 my wife, three sons and I moved to Austin to join Dr. Haney’s team here at Riverbend.
My Favorite Things: I love traveling and going to the beach. I love surfing (yes, there’s surfing in Texas!) I love a good book or a good conversation. I love reading The Economist or watching CNBC (I’m a bit of a business nerd). I love hanging out with good friends; eating pizza or ice cream; and studying and teaching the Bible. But most of all I love my wife, my kids and my God.
Norm Schoenfeld, Pastor of Church Involvement
nschoenfeld@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: I work with many of our volunteer leaders and teams at the church including the Stewardship Committee, the Missions Committee & the Men’s Ministry teams. In addition most of the operational areas of the church report to me including: Events, Maintenance, IT, Communications, Frontline ministries, Front office, Riverbend Centre, Remembrance Gardens, Riverbend Church Foundation, and the Riverbend Neighborhood Development Centers.
Ministry Focus: I love to find ways for people to continue to grow spiritually as they gain an understanding of how God has uniquely wired them to serve others both here at Riverbend, and or outside the walls of our campus, using their experiences, talents, and gifts to help expand His Kingdom.
Education & Ministry Experience: Undergraduate degree at The College of Wooster, Wooster, OH, and graduate studies at Fuller Theological Seminary, CA. Was a business leader for 30 years and active volunteer at my church before following God’s call into full time vocational ministry at Riverbend Church.
How Long at Riverbend: An amazing 4 years!
My Favorite Things: Vacationing in Hawaii with my wife Barbara, family and or friends, visiting my daughter and her spouse in northern California and my son in the NY area.
Paulette Schwartz, Pastor of Care & Recovery Ministries
pschwartz@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Paulette works with Stephen Ministry, various support groups including 12-step recovery groups. She provides support through pastoral counseling which includes relationship issues, grief, illness and addiction issues as well as benevolent needs. She is responsible for purchases/management of the church bookstore. In addition she lends pastoral support to the women’s ministry leaders, the Riverbend Emmaus Community, as well as teaches on Sunday mornings in the Grace Lab.
Ministry Focus: To provide help and encouragement to people who are hurting physically, spiritually and emotionally. Preventive ministry is a focus to equip people with skills that help to facilitate spiritual and emotional growth.
Education & Ministry Experience: Graduate of the University of Texas, Austin; Masters of Arts (Pastoral Ministry) from Trinity Theological Seminary.
How Long at Riverbend: Our family has been members of Riverbend for over 28 years. Paulette’s been on staff for 18 years.
My Favorite Things: Visiting my grandchildren in Houston, reading books and going to movies with my husband, Bill. I love menu planning, food shopping, and food preparation.
Connie Borcherding, Pastor of Children's Ministries
cborcherding@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Connie leads the Children’s Ministry (birth -5th grade) at Riverbend and supervises the Riverbend Christian School. She directs the volunteer leadership development teams, working with parents to support their children’s spiritual formation. She provides leadership in curriculum development both for large group theater and for relational small groups on Sunday mornings. She also is responsible for organizing special events, including Hallelujah Hoedown, Eggstravaganza & Vacation Bible School, as well as special ministries like Christ Awareness Classes, Baby Dedications and Baptisms.
Ministry Focus: To partner with parents to lay a foundation of faith and love to lead a child to the heart of God. Riverbend’s Children’s Ministry champions the spiritual formation of every child by supporting and developing a loving and grace-filled relationship with Christ .
Education & Ministry Experience: Graduate of Southwestern University in Georgetown; Masters of Music from the University of Texas at Austin.
How Long at Riverbend: Connie and her husband, John, are charter members of Riverbend. They have been part of the Riverbend Community for 31 years. Connie has been on staff for 17 years.
My Favorite Things: Spending time with her children, family and friends, and being creative with cooking and entertaining, home decorating and traveling. She absolutely loves creative arts events, concerts, movies and playing the piano. The latest favorite high adventure is zip-lining.
Dean Busboom, Pastor of Senior Adults
dbusboom@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Planning programs and day trips for Senior Adults
Ministry Focus: Assisting senior adults in staying active in their retirement, focusing on their spiritual, social, physical and mental growth.
Education & Ministry Experience: Undergraduate degree from Centenary College in Shreveport, LA; Master of Divinity from Wartburg Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa. I have served parishes in Windsor, Co., Wichita Falls, TX. And Austin, TX. Retired Lutheran Pastor of 32 years.
How Long at Riverbend: I have been at Riverbend for 5 years in my present capacity, prior to that did 4 years of research for Dr. Mann.
My Favorite Things: Visiting our children and grandchildren attending their sporting events. I also enjoy working in the yard and garden. I also enjoy traveling and putting together tours to different places.
Andrew Carpenter, Pastor of Missions
acarpenter@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Works with many of the volunteer leaders and teams at the church including those involved with Mobile Loaves and Fishes, Career Transitions, Habitat for Humanity, Congregational Social Responsibility, International Missions, Neighborhood Development Centers, and other initiatives including school supply drives for “at risk” students, and Angel’s Afoot which is a Christmas gift program for children in need.
Ministry Focus: I desire to help individuals and groups look for ways to extend the love and grace of Jesus into the world around them. This grace can be shared next door, across town, or around the globe.
Education & Ministry Experience: Bachelors of Business Administration from Oklahoma Baptist University. Master of Divinity from Southwestern Seminary. Andrew spent 4 years in marketing and management prior to entering full time ministry, in 1996. He has served on staff at churches in California and Texas. Prior to his current position, Andrew was the Pastor of Student Ministries here at Riverbend.
How Long at Riverbend: May 2003 – Present. 7 years
My Favorite Things: I love to spend time with my wife, Carmen and our two children. We enjoy exploring parks and wildlife but we don’t like to camp out. I love to read books that challenge my thinking and give me new ideas for the work I do.
Carlton Dillard, Pastor of Creative Arts
cdillard@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Oversee all of the music and arts programs at the church. Conducts the Riverbend choir and orchestra and leads worship for the Celebration service on Sunday morning as well as producing all our large scale musical events. The television ministry leadership also reports to me.
Ministry Focus: To teach and inspire volunteer and professional singers and musicians to use their gifts for God to the best of their abilities. To lead in providing worship environments for our congregation to connect with God through music and the arts.
Education & Ministry Experience: Undergraduate work at Howard Payne University, Brownwood, Texas, University of Texas, Austin, and Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene, Texas. Has over 35 years experience as a worship pastor, songwriter, arranger, and conductor.
How Long at Riverbend: 21 years
My Favorite Things: Dining out with my wife Sharon, seeing our four children live successful happy lives, visiting with our grandchildren, playing with our two dogs Maggie and Zoe, and hanging out at the Elephant Room listening to Jazz, one of my great passions.
Kip Nanninga, Pastor of Student Ministries
knanninga@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: I bring spiritual coaching to the student ministry team, volunteer leaders, parents and students through vision, strategy, focus, teaching and building intentional relationships. I recently have been asked to sit on the Management Team, which brings overall leadership to Riverbend Church.
Ministry Focus: To see students become committed followers of Christ and position themselves as missionaries around the world in whatever profession they choose for their lives. I also desire that our student ministry would be agents of change in their city and world, through faith, compassion, justice and love.
Education & Ministry Experience: Undergraduate degree at Peru State College and Grace University with a B.S. in Education and Theology and graduate studies at Simpson and Crown Universities. Ordained and Licensed Minister through the Christian and Missionary Alliance, having been a pastor in student ministries for over 15 years before being recruited on staff at Riverbend Church in 2008.
How Long at Riverbend: 1 ½ Years
My Favorite Things: I absolutely love spending time with my wife Pearl, and 4 children, Josiah, Micah, Eli and Susie. And vacationing in the mountains of Colorado. We love to spend time in our neighborhood with families and friends. My favorite reads are David McCullough, Mark Driscoll, Jeff Shaara and Doris Kearns Goodwin. I love anything sports, The Office, Food Network and hope to take over Anthony Bourdain’s show someday.
Mike Robertson, Pastor of Mid-life Adults
mrobertson@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: I teach two classes each Sunday: Links is for couples 40 and up; Wings is for singles 40 and up. I also am the pastoral contact for the Journeys class and the Connected Parents class. In addition, I do typical pastor-type duties like weddings, funerals, baptisms, counseling, etc., as well as occasional preaching and writing.
Ministry Focus: Two recurring themes can be found in all I do. First, Jesus' commandment to love one another should be job number one for every follower of Christ, rather than being judgmental, legalistic or sanctimonious. Second, if God is indeed everywhere, then we can look for (and find!) Him in anything; I believe there is a spiritual component in every person, place and thing, if we seek to find it.
Education & Ministry Experience: Studied music at Baylor University. Started working in churches when I was 13, leading music. Spent years as a music and youth director, but originally came to Riverbend as a graphic designer. Ordained as a pastor in 2006.
How Long at Riverbend: Attending for 20 years, on staff for 11
My Favorite Things: My wife, Lisa, and my daughter, Lindsey, followed by books, music, movies, and popular culture of all sorts.
David Sunde, Pastor of Young Adults
dsunde@riverbend.com
Responsibilities & Ministry Focus: My primary focus is being involved with young single adults, young couples and families. He’s also part of the Sunday morning teaching rotation and represents the interests of community groups at Riverbend on the Management Team. As a part of the Community Group strategy at Riverbend, a primary focus is answering the question, what does it mean to BE the church not just GO to church? Fundamental to this is that faith is at its best when it is both shared and practiced. To that end, we want to facilitate communities that open up spiritual formation, deeper friendship, serving opportunities in an inclusive environment.
Education & Ministry Experience: David is a native son of San Francisco, California. He holds an undergraduate degree in Public Administration from San Diego State University and Masters degree from Azusa Pacific University's Haggard School of Theology. David has been involved in professional non-profit and spiritual leadership for over 15 years. He was recruited away from leading a San Francisco-based non-profit consulting firm by Riverbend Church in 2006. While serving on the Management Team at Riverbend, David works directly with young adults, young couples, and young families. He champions the development of activist communities that has grown to include countless of Austin's twenty and thirty-year-old men and women of political, legal, financial, social, artistic, cultural, medical, technological and educational influence. This communities have been mobilized to serve and share in acts of compassion and generosity, both locally and globally.
How Long at Riverbend: Our family has been in Austin and at Riverbend since Aug.’06…and love it!
My Favorite Things: Spending superfluous time pulling my kids out of school, pitching batting practice, live music performed by somebody I know, being guest listed, Daddy-daughter Dates, running Town Lake with Laurel, Golf, the San Francisco Giants, eating local faire, chai tea, In & Out Burger, rooting for Norway in the Winter Olympics, remodeling projects with my Dad, and urban environments.
Thom Temperli, Associate Pastor of Young Adults
ttemperli@riverbend.com
Responsibilities & Ministry Focus: Provide leadership to Untitled, Riverbend’s 20’s and 30’s community group, through teaching and speaking, overseeing and providing direction for small groups, individual spiritual development, organizing Untitled’s core social and outreach events throughout the calendar year. Leading people into a transformative experience of Christian community, through unconditional love and acceptance, cultivating an awareness of our need for each other, and of our part in bringing healing to world.
Education & Ministry Experience: Graduate of Master’s College and Seminary in Toronto Canada, with a degree in Theological Education with an emphasis on Pastoral Ministry.
How Long at Riverbend: My wife and I have been here since January 2009
My Favorite Things: Watching my daughter laugh uncontrollably, world travel, food & wine, bookstores, sunshine.
Staff Team
Keary Bailey, Executive Director of Remembrance Gardens
Responsibilities: The day-to-day operation of Remembrance Gardens. I work with families of all faiths who have experienced a loss and after having chosen cremation, are looking for a peaceful resting place for their loved ones.
Ministry Focus: Remembrance Gardens is a cremation garden dedicated to providing interment and memorial opportunities in a meaningful and dignified manner. It provides an open expression of memorialization for all persons regardless of religious background or beliefs.
Education & Ministry Experience: Undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University. Through several companies, I have been educating families on the benefits of preneed arrangements for over 20 years.
How Long at Riverbend: 9 years
My Favorite Things: Spending time with my family and golf when time allows.
Judy Barker, Christian School Assistant Director
jbarker@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: To assist the Director in all areas of operations of Riverbend Christian School
Ministry Focus: To offer a loving Christian environment in which each child can develop fully in all areas of his/her life: emotional, physical, social, cognitive & spiritual. We believe in the importance of providing support and encouragement to RCS parents & families.
Education & Ministry Experience: BS in Home & Family Life/Child Development from Texas Tech University. I have been involved in early childhood education for more than 35 years, including day care licensing, public school teaching, day care consulting and Mothers Day Out director at an Abilene,Texas church.
How Long at Riverbend: Classroom teacher from 1997-2007; Assistant Director since 2007
My Favorite Things: My husband Monty & I are proud parents of three married daughters and have 2 grandchildren. Our family times are precious to us. Most weekends you can find us boating on Lake Travis or on a sandy beach somewhere sunny!
Linda Bell, Finance Coordinator
lbell@riverbend.com
Ministry Focus: To serve the Church by providing accurate accounting and financial reporting
Education & Ministry Experience: College – 3 years, ministry experience – 26 years
How Long at Riverbend: 21 years
My Favorite Things: Swimming, watching football and basketball, playing board games. My favorite books are mysteries.
Sharon Dillard, Riverbend Centre Manager
& Executive Assistant for Church Communications
sdillard@riverbend.com
Responsibilities & Ministry Focus: Works as the Riverbend Centre Manager managing all aspects of the Performing Arts Venue. Riverbend Centre a separate entity wholly owned by the church was established to both embrace and help champion the arts in Austin, by allowing the hall to be used as a performance arts hall. Other responsibilities for the front office, recruiting the volunteer receptionists and office workers that staff the front desk Monday through Friday. She is also the contact for church membership information and recruiting volunteers to help set up for our Inside Riverbend quarterly membership meeting.
Education & Experience: Attended Central Texas College starting out in a Real Estate Career, then spent 15 years working in the local school districts, and has been at Riverbend for 9 years.
My Favorite Things: Keeping up with 3 granddaughters (with a 4th Grandson on the way), doing fun activities with my 2 shelter dogs; Zoe and Maggie, volunteering in my daughter’s (who is a Teacher) Kindergarten class, participating in 5K’s with my twin sister, and hanging out with my husband, Carlton, listening to local music in Austin.
Sergio Dovalina, Events
sdovalina@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Event Set Up/ Support
Has worked at Riverbend: 19 years
My Favorite Things: Spending time with my wife, Maria, and my two daughters. I also love hunting, fishing, cooking, and playing with his puppy.
Kim Farr, Finance & HR Director
kfarr@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Oversee & compile work papers & schedules for various annual external audit for Riverbend Church & Riverbend Christian School & Riverbend Centre. Coordinate & compile budget projections during the annual budget process with all departments within Riverbend Church and Riverbend Christian School. Attend the Coordinating Meetings to review financial statements and budgetary matters on a monthly basis. Attend monthly personnel committee meetings. Prepare monthly and quarterly financial reporting for Riverbend Church and Riverbend Christian School. Prepare quarterly payroll tax returns. Prepare yearly informational return for Riverbend Christian School. Prepare yearly 990T return for Riverbend Church. Financial reporting to Bank of West.
Ministry Focus: The monetary well being of Riverbend Church and the preservation of its non-profit status
Education & Ministry Experience: BBA in Finance, minor in Economics from Southwestern University at Georgetown, Texas. 33 hours of accounting including 24 hours subsequent to college graduation. Sat for 11/96 CPA exam. Human Resource management certificate earned through program sponsored and conducted by UT at Austin, Texas 12/93. PHR certificate earned through the Society for Human Resource Management in 12/93.
How Long at Riverbend: 13 years
My Favorite Things:Travel to new destinations, spring break skiing, watching my children play various sports, visiting with family and friends.
Roy Galindo, Maintenance
Responsibilities: Specializes in electricity, air conditioning and wood working
Has worked at Riverbend: 9 years
Family: Married to Emilia and has three daughters: Regina – 2, Sofia – 5, and Alejandra – 7.
My Favorite Things: Playing volleyball and ping pong.
Chase Gassaway, Music Assistant
cgassaaway@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Chase works with the creative arts team to bring creativity and artistic vision to church programming. His responsibilities vary from musical performance, orchestration, construction, to video editing.
Ministry Focus: Building relationships with Austin musicians to fuse cultural interaction and grow community. Bringing excellence to church programming.
Education & Ministry Experience: Bachelor of Music: Composition and Theory from Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene, TX. Led worship with Tim Ward Ministries from 1999-2007, Youth Worship Leader for First Baptist Eastland, TX from 2003-2005, Youth/Music Intern at Riverbend Church in summers of 2007, 20008. He has had the privilege of working with hundreds of worship leaders as a musician, orchestrator or producer.
How Long at Riverbend: 3 years
My Favorite Things: Coffee. Fiction novels. Analyzing structural harmony. Organic conversation. Home movies. Performing live music. Experiencing live music. Lost. Stamp collecting. My hot wife. Analog delays. Downtown. Taking electronics apart. Cooking. Secret spots uptown. nakedFOLK. Mood lighting. Radiohead. Tiny reed organs. Tweeting. The Settlers of Catan. 808’s. Peanut Butter Ice Cream. People, even when they’re not my favorite.
Kassie Gassaway, Student Ministry Intern
kgassaaway@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Kassie keeps the student ministry in line. Her responsibilities include but are not limited to parent communication, organization, and graphic support.
Ministry Focus: Building relationships with Austin students to fuse cultural interaction and grow community.
Education & Ministry Experience: A lot of it.
How Long at Riverbend: 3 years
My Favorite Things: Coffee. Happiness.
Chuy Gomez, Maintenance
Responsibilities: Specializes in carpentry. Certified in electricity, welding and mechanics.
Worked at Riverbend: 9 years
My Favorite Things: Fishing, hunting, playing ping pong and playing on my I-Phone.
Pablo Gomez, Sr., Events
Responsibilities: Event Set / Support
Has worked at Riverbend: 9 years
My Favorite Things: Spending time with his wife, Rosaura and four children, Pablo, Chuy, Jose and Amalia. I enjoy reading, helping people, collecting arrowheads and using a metal detector to look for “treasures”.
Pablo Gomez, Maintenance
Responsibilities: Specializes in sheet rocking, painting and fixing anything. Certified in electricity, welding and mechanics.
How Long at Riverbend: 12 years
My Favorite Things: Spending time with my wife, Esmeralda and his three children: Paulina – 6, Valeria – 8, and Pablito – 12. I also like fishing, hunting and playing ping pong.
Brian Gorham, Children's Ministry Assistant & Preteen Director
bgorham@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Teach the preteen’s lesson (4th and 5th grade) Responsible for the general day to day operations of the Childrens Ministry Department.
Ministry Focus: To partner with parents to build a foundation of faith and love that will lead a child to the heart of God. Education & Ministry Experience: Undergraduate degree from the University of Texas, Tyler in Finance.
How Long at Riverbend: 3 years
My Favorite Things: Watch movies, play golf, and hang out with my wife and kids.
Paula Hetherly-Barton, Christian School Director
phetherly@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Paula staffs and works with all teachers and assistants to provide quality classroom experiences and growth for each age. She oversees office management, parent involvement and school policy.
Ministry Focus: To provide a loving, Christian environment in which each child can develop emotionally, physically, socially, cognitively and spiritually. The preschool endeavors to provide support and encouragement for parents and families.
Education & Ministry Experience: Undergraduate degree from Baylor University. Teacher at Riverbend preschool for 12 years and Assistant Director for 4 years.
How Long at Riverbend: 20 years
My Favorite Things are: Going to movies all year with my husband, Rick, and then gearing up for an Oscar night “pre-party.” Sitting out on any Austintacious deck and taking in the appetizers and view!
Alicia Hudson, Riverbend Christian School office Manager
ahudson@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Alicia handles admissions into the preschool including tours, waiting lists and registration, for both the school year program and six-week summer camp. As Administrative Assistant, she supports the Directors of the school during daily operations and special events. She also handles tuition billing, accounts receivable, accounts payable and payroll for the school.
Ministry Focus: To provide a loving, Christian environment in which each child can develop emotionally, physically, socially, cognitively and spiritually. The preschool endeavors to provide support and encouragement for parents and families.
Education & Ministry Experience: Alicia studied Accounting at the University of Texas at Austin and since a young age has had a desire to work with children.
How Long at Riverbend: 13 years (since 1997)
My Favorite Things: Spending time with my two children, Shelby and Shane. One of our favorite things to do is go hiking at the San Gabriel River.
Susie Keck, Creative Arts Coordinator
skeck@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Works with Carlton Dillard to plan and produce all of the music for both special events and Sunday morning worship services. She is a member of the programming team for Sunday morning; her responsibilities include picking music for Sunday morning specials, scheduling singers and musicians for all three Sunday morning services, planning and coordinating stage design/multi-media and managing the stage on Sunday morning for the Celebration and Resonate services. Susie is also responsible for the coordinating and managing the Riverbend Choir and is responsible for booking all special guest artist
Ministry Focus: To produce a Sunday morning experience that touches people’s hearts and leads them to a closer relationship with God. And to minister to members of the Riverbend choir/musician community as well as the Austin music community.
Education & Ministry Experience: Attended Texas Tech University with a major in Home Economics. Was a member of the Riverbend for 15 years and a volunteer in the Riverbend Choir before joining the staff full time.
How Long at Riverbend: 10 years
My Favorite Things: Being with friends and family. Cooking, planning parties and hanging out at the lake house on Lake LBJ.
Lisa Macs, Nursery Director
lmacs@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Childcare Staff/Tiny Tots Theater/Baby Dedications/Special Events
Ministry Focus: Partnering with parents to become involved in our Children’s Department to teach our smallest members of Riverbend about God’s Love for them and to know that someday they will make a personal decision to accept Christ as their own personal Lord and Savior.
Education & Ministry Experience: Fashion Merchandising Degree. Using skills acquired in management and sales positions in secular job positions to manage childcare staff, recruit volunteers, and plan and organize our Outreach events in the Children’s Department.
How Long at Riverbend: 8 years
My Favorite Things: Love to spend time with my 2 girls, family and friends –always on the go! Love to read or watch shows on the DVR for quiet time.
Troy Marx, Events/Technical Director
tmarx@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Troy works with all the Technical Teams and is in charge of all the lighting and sound systems on the Riverbend Campus. He is in charge of overseeing all event staff, technical staff, wedding coordinator, event coordinator and all events, Riverbend and Non-Riverbend that occur on the campus. He is in charge of event/technical budget, security, medical supply, kitchen/food service, Golf cart ministry, and supply ordering.
Ministry Focus: To give all that enter the Riverbend Campus a pleasing experience that will make them want to return to Riverbend and be a part of the Riverbend community.
Education & Ministry Experience: Graduated from Taylor High School and attended Temple College. I am currently the Mayor of Thrall Texas. I spent 15+ years in the graphic arts/printing industry and in the live sound industry before being persuaded by a friend to apply for a position at Riverbend.
How Long at Riverbend: Starting my 13th year!
My Favorite Things: I enjoy spending time with my family and enjoying watching my family grow together. We enjoy sports and vacationing together.
Scott Matteson, IT Director
smatteson@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Manage the church’s wired and wireless network, ensuring all users have sufficient hardware & software for their jobs, maintain operation of servers, run media presentations in the HFH on Sunday’s and other events, manage the church’s office supplies, keeping items in stock and managing to the approved budget.
How Long at Riverbend: 8 yrs
My Favorite Things: Watching the Miami Dolphins play football (when they win), going to the movies with my wife, and tinkering with new technology.
Joe McKenzie, Facilities and Grounds Director
jmckenzie@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: To enhance and or maintain Riverbend Church, Riverbend Centre, Riverbend Child Development Center and the Riverbend Remembrance Garden to a level that continues to bring people together in an enriched environment.
Ministry Focus: To provide a safe, attractive facility for people to want to attend and prosper in God’s kingdom.
Education & Ministry Experience: I graduated from Dover High School, I had two years of O.W.E. in diesel mechanics. I have 80 hours of Arc Welding, Mentored in all domestic trades; framing, plumbing, and electrical, for 15 years. Worked 8 years in food catering and waitering.
How Long at Riverbend: 18 years
My Favorite Things: Being a family man and a “Daddy” to my daughter Madelyn, Taking care of 3 acres in Ruby Ranch, Playing volleyball, Traveling, Being outdoors and Remodeling our house.
Todd Mears, Assistant Children's Minister
tmears@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: To bring an intense energy to the Chidren's Ministry of Riverbend Church and connect the future generations with the love of God.
Ministry Focus: To provide a safe, engaging environment for children to know God's love..
Education & Ministry Experience: Tons (To be continued soon)
How Long at Riverbend: Less than a year.
My Favorite Things: Being funny, making videos, video editing, my family, and being in ministry.
Daniel Ramirez, Communications Director
dramirez@riverbend.com
Ministry Focus: Austin, Texas, in its native dialect, which is creative arts/music.
Education & Ministry Experience: B.A. Chemistry, Baylor University. Master’s, Baylor School Of Social Work. I spent a lifetime in Christian schools before I discovered I wanted to do something with the foundation that had been built there.
How Long at Riverbend: 4 years.
My Favorite Things: In Reality: I listen to more music than most, and have a head full of lyrics. I’m prone to occasional fits of melancholy, and I rarely meet a live music event I didn’t get along with. Justine’s is where that music (on vinyl) combines with great food, and you can find me at Alamo Drafthouse or The Highball when I’m out of my red office.
Lisa Robertson, TV & Video Producer
lrobertson@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Lisa directs and edits the Riverbend Church television shows each week. She also provides video support for all other Riverbend ministries - from videotaping special events to creating video pieces for instruction and promotion.
Ministry Focus: To give the Austin community a glimpse of the Riverbend worship experience; plus, provide creative and engaging visual pieces for Riverbend ministries.
Education & Ministry Experience: Lisa has a Bachelor’s Degree in American Studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a focus in Communications. Lisa worked for 20 years as a journalist and in Public Relations before working at Riverbend.
How Long at Riverbend: 10 years
Favorite things: 1). Spending time with my family 2). Going to Disney World 3). Watching classic movies while eating chile con queso.
Krista Ross, Administrative Assistant for Church Operations
kross@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Keeping the church calendar updated, organizing church outside events, overseeing the Golf Cart Ministry, various administrative duties for the Event/Technical Director, Plant Director and Pastor of Church Involvement.
How Long at Riverbend: 17 years
Something about me: I am proud to be born and raised in Austin. I love the Texas Longhorns (when they are winning). My favorite things to do are to go kayaking, take family vacations, be outside and to play on my Iphone! My husband, Mark, and I have four wonderful children: Nick, Taylor, Morgan & Megan. (along with 4 cats, a dog, a hamster and guinea pig…)
Barbara Shepherd, Mid Life Adult Ministry Director
bshepherd@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Barbara Shepherd is involved with ministry development for the “Links” and “Wings” classes under the pastorship of Mike Robertson. They also are available as needed to help with both the “Connected Parents” community group and “Journeys”.
Education & Ministry Experience: Recently graduating from the Student Ministry Department.
How long at Riverbend: A part of the Riverbend community for 30 years and has been on staff for 12
My Favorite Things: She and her husband, Will, have three sons (one married) who all, thankfully, live in Austin. Extracurricular activities involve kayaking on the Llano River, hiking, reading, playing any game, yoga, and walking with friends.
Jason Shuck, Student Ministry Director
jshuck@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: I work with students from 6th-12th grade, but with more of my focus being on building relationship with Middle School Students. I am in charge of leading, building, and overseeing the Student Ministry Band; the programming of small groups, mission trips, outreach events, and camps; creating graphics and video for all events; and student discipleship.
Ministry Focus: To meet and engage students where they are at in their individual spiritual journey; and to help facilitate Spiritual growth by building community, creating opportunities to serve, establishing solid Biblical principals, and by investing my time and experience into the discipleship of students.
Education & Ministry Experience: Bachelor’s Degree in Student Ministry from Geneva College, Beaver Falls, PA. I have been involved in Student Ministry for 7 years, with the past 3 years being full time. Much of my experience is with leading and building worship teams, organizing and directing mission trips, and small group ministry.
How Long at Riverbend: 1 year
My Favorite Things: Two huge passions of mine are music and food. I love spending time listening to my itunes, discovering new bands, catching live shows, and playing guitar. When music isn’t involved I love going out to eat. Anytime I can try a new restaurant it’s normally a good day; and it’s a toss up between New York style pizza and sushi for my favorite food.
Linda Smith, Pastoral Care & Recovery Assistant
lsmith@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Linda assists Paulette Schwartz in Pastoral Care &.Recovery and the Riverbend Bookstore. She also supports the Women's Ministry, Men'sMinistry, Senior Adults, Stephen Ministry, & various Sunday School groups.
Ministry Focus: Linda has been a Stephen Minister at Riverbend for five years. Linda also interfaces with the various 12-step or recovery groups that meet on the Riverbend campus. She is responsible for collecting prayer requests and sending out the weekly prayer chain email.
How Long at Riverbend: Member since 1989 and has sung in the Riverbend Chorale since 1990. She has been on staff since October of 2003.
My Favorite Things: Spending time with family here in Austin (husband, daughter, 3 grandsons, 2 dogs), travel, going to and renting movies, reading, and gardening.
Theo Smith, Front-line Ministries Director
tsmith@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Theo works with the Usher, Greeter and Medical volunteer leaders of Riverbend Church and Riverbend Centre. He directs the focus of the Mission Committee’s volunteer team devoted to establishing the Riverbend Neighborhood Development Centers, serves as the staff liaison to the Stewardship Committee and Chairs the Riverbend Church Foundation.
Ministry Focus: To help individuals grow spiritually as they volunteer and use their time, talents and treasure to serve others both on and off the Riverbend campus.
Education & Ministry Experience: Undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University and graduate studies at the University of Texas, Austin, TX. Theo has attended Riverbend Church since 2000, is a Stephen Minister and joined the staff of Riverbend Church in 2008 after spending 33 years working with the financial service industry. He recently graduated from the University of Texas’s Certified Financial Planning program and passed the CFP exam in July 2009.
How Long at Riverbend: 10 years
My Favorite Things: Theo is a licensed private pilot, enjoys sailing, traveling with his wife Salli and visiting his two adult daughters living in California.
Susan Spears, Children's Ministry Production Coordinator
sspears@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Susan is charge of all children’s creative arts productions at Riverbend. She also implements music and media into all elementary and preschool Sunday morning programming and designs the large group presentation for elementary age children on Sunday mornings.
Ministry Focus: To further the spiritual development and education of children through theater arts, music and visual media.
Education & Ministry Experience: Bachelor’s degree elementary education from the University of Texas at Austin. She has extensive experience in business management gained through 25 years of general managing in a chain of franchised hair salons. She volunteered at length in Riverbend’s children ministry before joining staff as a full-time employee.
How Long at Riverbend: 15 years
My Favorite Things: Backpacking, hiking and reading. In addition I enjoy women’s Bible study.
CJ Thomas, Student Ministry Director
cthomas@riverbend.com
Responsibilities & Ministry Focus: I work with students, grades 6th -12th, with an emphasis in connecting with High School students. I plan and lead the weekly Student Ministry Small Group, Velocity, for High School students, assist in organizing events, deliver upfront speaking and leading, and coordinating contact with students outside the walls of Riverbend Church. My focus is primarily for High School Students to be connected through our various ministry events, to take their faith further through discipleship, and for them to be trained and equipped as they prepare to be the future leaders of not only this church, but also in this nation and the world.
Education & Ministry Experience: I have a bachelor’s degree in Theatre and have been doing Student Ministry for 8 years. I have done everything from intercity ministry in Denver with the lower income families and gangsters to working in Westlake for the past 5 years with upper class/wealthy families. Regardless of the amount of money one makes, everyone wants to be accepted. My desire is to show them the unconditional acceptance that Christ has for us all.
How Long at Riverbend: Less than a year.
My Favorite Things: I love to travel and see new places. I love going out on the lake to relax and spend some time tubing. I also love a good game of Disc Golf. My favorite books are definitely the Harry Potter series or most fiction books for that matter. I love a good adventure movie too. You throw in a treasure map and a battle scene of some caliber, I am sure to like it. i.e. Goonies.
John Ward, Audio Engineer
jward@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: All aspects of audio and production services
Ministry Focus: Home For Hope audio and any/all other campus audio needs
Education & Ministry Experience: B.A. - University of Texas in Austin; C.P.T. - University of Texas Health Sci. Ctr. DallasI have been involved in the audio industry for 30 years with app. 15 years touring experience with major label artists on an international level. My accomplishments in the industry include an R.I.A.A. platinum record award for MCA records “No Ordinary Man” and credits on several Grammy nominated albums. I have been blessed to be called to serve at Riverbend and strive to provide a meaningful worship experience for all.
How Long at Riverbend: 10 years
My Favorite Things: I have three passions outside of the work environment: Travel with my family, raising dogs and BASEBALL!
Chris Weihl, Executive Assistant
cweihl@riverbend.com
Responsibilities: Chris supports Senior Pastor, David Haney; Executive Pastor, Peter Sleeper; Pastor of Young Adults, David Sunde; and Associate Pastor of Young Adults, Thom Temperli. She is also the Church Secretary.
How Long at Riverbend: Been worshiping at Riverbend since 1997 and on staff since 2002.
My Favorite Things: George Strait, my husband Jeff and my 12 grandchildren (not necessarily in that order). I enjoy cross stitching and reading.