Barry Szymanski

The Rev. Dr. Barry Szymanski is the Interim Executive Director of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. He earned a bachelor’s degree in 1965, a juris doctorate in 1973, and graduated from seminary with honors in 2006. Barry’s career path has been dynamic, encompassing serving as a pastor and guest preacher, practicing law in Wisconsin, serving in law enforcement, and teaching classes ranging from pastoral care to corporate law. What he loves most about his work with the NACCC is the opportunity to collaborate with so many people and the problem-solving involved in overcoming the daily challenges of serving the association.

Gerry Krupp

The Rev. Dr. Gerry Krupp is the Director of Programs for the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Christian Ministries from Indiana Wesleyan University, a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry in Preaching from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Gerry’s 30 years as a settled minister and 11 years working in the strategic transitional space with churches and non-profits provided him the perfect experience to guide NACCC member churches as they strive to grow, thrive, and serve – work he finds engaging and rewarding.

Kristin Ward

Kristin Ward is the Director of Development for the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. She holds a degree in Non-Profit Management and Development with an emphasis in Adult Education. Prior to joining the NACCC team, Kristin worked in membership and philanthropy at Girl Scouts Wisconsin Southeast and ran the Longest Day campaign at Alzheimer’s Association. She is a member of the Association for Fund Raising Professionals and has a certificate in Mediation and Conflict Resolution. Kristin’s favorite aspect of her work at the NACCC is relationship building.

Laura Wright

Laura Wright is the Church Services Coordinator for the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. She holds an Associate Degree in Applied Sciences from Milwaukee Area Technical College and previously worked as a paralegal in a law firm for twenty-five years. In early 2018, Laura came across a job listing for the NACCC and thought, “Why not?” In her work at the NACCC, Laura has embraced close collaboration with search committee chairpersons, ministers, and member churches. Her favorite aspect of her work is having the opportunity to serve others meaningfully. She is also a member and the current treasurer of the Congregational Retreat Society.

Maggie Helmick

Maggie Helmick is the Communications Manager and Editor of The Congregationalist magazine for the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies from West Virginia University and a Master of Theological Studies in the Comparative Study of Religion from Harvard Divinity School. With a background in marketing and communications, Maggie is passionate about highlighting the achievements, milestones, and inspiring stories of member churches and their communities. She finds great fulfillment in helping to amplify the meaningful work and impact of Congregational Christian churches across the country.

Sarah Sobecke

Sarah Sobecke is the Executive Assistant for the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Tufts University and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Prior to joining the NACCC team, Sarah worked in education, real estate, and interior design. She is a member of the American Society of Administrative Professionals and the Association of Meeting Professionals. Sarah loves collaborating with diverse committees, teams, and partners at the NACCC and finds purpose in supporting meaningful connections, fostering community, and contributing to work that makes a positive impact.

Julie Robie

Julie Robie is the Missions Coordinator for the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of New Hampshire and pursued graduate studies in Early Childhood Education at Notre Dame College, New Hampshire, until she felt the call to serve as the Minister of Administration at First Congregational Church of Kingston, NH. She also served as a retreat leader for the Pilgrim Center for Reconciliation and a board member of the New Hampshire Chapter of Newborns and Needs before joining the NACCC team. Julie finds immense joy in helping others in the name of Christ.

Cheryl Milnes

Cheryl Milnes is the Chief Financial Officer of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from The Pennsylvania State University and is a licensed CPA in the state of Wisconsin. Cheryl serves on the boards of several non-profit organizations and is a member of the Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Her favorite aspect of her work with the NACCC is the opportunity to help the association’s various boards and councils better understand their financials and guide them through the budgeting process.

Austin Tennies

Austin Tennies serves as a Fractional Accountant and the administrator of employee benefits for the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accountancy from Ottawa University and has a professional background in non-profit accounting. Austin’s favorite aspect of his work with the NACCC is providing stability and expertise in an area that not everyone is comfortable in. He hopes his work allows the association’s staff and leadership to focus more on their realms of expertise and professional projects and a little less on the finances.