By Brant Henshaw, et. al.
Over the summer we learned that our then District Service Center(DSC) staff, Kyle Franklin and Sabrina Venture, both had new employment opportunities to explore. We are thankful that each blessed our districts and their superintendents with capable service for a number of years. As we said our goodbyes, we started the process of hiring their replacements. We’d like to take this opportunity to formally introduce them to you.
Rhondalei Gabuat joined us mid-July as a temporary employee to give us time to consider any changes we might want to make to the office before we rehired. While she arrived with recommendation, it was her excellent work before her formal interview in August which made our search committee’s decision to offer her a permanent position much easier. Rhondalei will focus her support toward the Seattle, Tacoma and Inland Districts. You can reach her by email at rgabuat@pnwumc.org or by phone at 206-870-6805.
During that interview process, we also were impressed by Hollie Swanson, an applicant who was on staff at Mason United Methodist Church in Tacoma, Washington. She started in the office last week but has already spent time supporting district committee work and quickly learning the system. Hollie will focus her support toward the Puget Sound, Seven Rivers and Vancouver Districts. You can reach her by email at HSwanson@pnwumc.org or by phone at 206-870-6814.
We’ve asked Rhondalei and Hollie to share a few words to introduce themselves below. I hope you’ll welcome them to these roles when you have an opportunity and extend to them some grace as they grow into these new responsibilities. We are excited to have them on staff with us and expect you’ll feel the same way.
You can learn more about the DSC on our PNW website (LINK) and can also reach our staff via the general office number (888) 818-4288.
About Rhondalei
I started working for the District Service Center this summer after taking time to focus on organizing as Chairperson of GABRIELA Seattle. I have been a community organizer since 2009 that is dedicated to advancing the movement for national liberation and genuine democracy in the Philippines.
Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I honor being connected to the indigenous land and history that I call my home. As a member of Beacon United Methodist Church in Seattle, I have learned about connecting how to better serve the community with my faith. I help to lead our monthly Crossroads Vespers service where we have a safe space to discuss issues that have impact to our local community and the world. On my free time, I enjoy a good meal shared with family and friends, getting creative with crafting and engaging in different outdoor activities while appreciating the four seasons we have here in Washington.
I look forward to continuing getting to know the community in this role at the District Service Center!
About Hollie
I recently joined the District Service Center after a wonderful two years as the Facilities Manager for Mason United Methodist Church in Tacoma.
There are two apples of my eye – my 11 and 17 year old sons. In my spare time, I enjoy inspiring other women to pursue their dreams and walk with them through their spiritual journey! I love DIY crafts, watching movies, walking different national parks, and bowling with my boys. I’m newly transferring from Peace Lutheran to Mason UMC in Tacoma.
I am very excited to see familiar faces and to make new connections in this role at the District Service Center.
