817 SW Harrison, Topeka, KS 66612  785-233-9601

Church Staff

Church Staff

Sandra Brown

Pastor, Head of Staff

The Rev. Sandra Brown began her work here in 2014. Sandra studied music at the conservatory at University of Missouri, Kansas City before beginning her theological education. Sandra holds an M.A. in Religious Education from the Claremont School of Theology in addition to a M.Div. from Central Baptist Theological Seminary. Ordained in 2007, Sandra served as the associate pastor at the First Presbyterian Church of Lee’s Summit, Missouri through June 2014. She has a deep love of seeking the places where God’s word connects with everyday life, as well as helping people discern how God is working within them; she is also passionate about education, stewardship, team-building, creative worship and radical hospitality.

sbrown@fpctopeka.org

Pat Yancey

Commissioned Associate Pastor

Pat oversees the pastoral care of members and those connected with our church, working with the pastor and the Stephen Ministers to coordinate visits, phone calls, and other forms of spiritual care. Having completed our presbytery’s Commissioned Ruling Elder training, Pat also assists with preaching and worship leadership. In the fall of 2018, Pat began working with a few youth members, along with the assistance of Linda Nantz, and has created the strong beginnings of a consistent youth group. If you have a child in middle or high school that would like to get involved, please contact Pat for more information.

pyancey@fpctopeka.org

Beth Johnston

Director of Family Ministries

Beth joined the staff in November 2018 as the Director of Family Ministry. Prior to joining the staff she was a teacher for 33 years with Topeka Public Schools USD 501. Beth received her Bachelor of Education Degree from Washburn University and has a Current Kansas Teaching License. As a physical education and science seacher, Beth spent her career teaching and coaching at the Middle School Level. Beth has always enjoyed working with children, youth and families and hopes to continue here at FPC. Beth and husband Rob enjoy spending time with family and playing golf. 

bjohnston@fpctopeka.org

Kevin Kellim

Director of Music

Dr. Kevin Kellim has served as FPC Music Director since 1990. He conducts the Chancel Choir, supervises the scheduling of soloists and guest musicians, and serves on related committees at the church. Kellim received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Southwest Baptist University, a Master of Music degree in choral conducting from Kansas State University, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral conducting from The University of Kansas. In addition, Kellim has been the choral director at Washburn University since 1992, where he conducts the Washburn Choir, Washburn Singers and Women’s Chorus, and teaches courses in advanced conducting and private voice.

kevin.kellim@washburn.edu

Cynthia Neufeld Smith

Organist

 

Lori Hennessey

Office Manager

lhennessey@fpctopeka.org

Mark Ingle

Maintenance Supervisor

Mark joined the staff October 2019. Prior to joining the staff, Mark worked for the Seaman school district for 30 years in maintenance. Outside of work, he enjoys gardening, traveling, volunteering for the Civic Theater and serving his church. He is also a lifelong KSU Wildcat fan. 

Carrie Riordan

Director of Communications

Carrie joined the staff August 2020 as a contract service provider.

criordan@fpctopeka.org

Sean Zears

Videographer

 

Sean joined the staff August 2020 as a contract service provider.

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