Isaac Hunter Senior Pastor
Isaac moved back to Orlando in October 2001 to start Summit Church with his wife, Rhonda, and their long-time friends, John and Brandy Parker. He attended Taylor University, and then obtained a Masters degree in Biblical Studies from Asbury Seminary. Isaac’s chief vocational desire is to help build a prevailing church that “Reaches people who are far from God, and moves everyone toward a deeper commitment to Christ.”
In addition to his chief responsibilities of preaching and leading the staff and congregation, Isaac serves as a speaker at both local and national level conferences and public engagements. He has a passion for communicating through the written word, and his work can be found in magazines like Relevant Leaders, Leadership, and his favorite SUMMIT MAGAZINE
Isaac and Rhonda were married in November 1999 and are the proud parents of Jada, Ella, and Lincoln.
To contact Isaac, please contact his office.
John Parker Executive Pastor
After attending college at Taylor University, John worked in student ministry for several years while preparing for the dream of one day starting a church with Isaac Hunter. In 2001, John and his wife Brandy, along with Isaac and Rhonda, planted Summit Church.
At Summit, John applies his desire to see people filled with purpose and direction to everything he does. His chief responsibilities include building a Biblically functioning community through solidifying the foundational structures of various ministries, coordinating volunteers and leaders, implementing vision, and generally equipping both staff and volunteers for ministry. John also coordinates Summit’s Go To Africa trips throughout the year.
John and his wife Brandy have been married since August 1999. Their greatest joy is raising their children, adopted from Ethiopia: Mulunesh, Sinkenesh, Archike, Samuel, Abush and Aschalew.
Have a question for John? Contact him.
Andy Simonds Worship Pastor
Andy began playing piano when he was four years old at the behest of his mother. However, he didn’t learn to love it until he was in high school and discovered the craft of songwriting. At this point, music became a creative outlet which would develop into a career path.
In December of 1998, Andy graduated from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, and began working in worship as a part of the team at Northland, A Church Distributed. After three years of musical training at Northland, he accepted an opportunity out west with a developing entertainment company. Although it was a wonderful opportunity, it ultimately only helped to clarify his desire to be in vocational ministry.
Andy’s primary responsibility at Summit is the planning and implementation of the Sunday morning worship services. He works hand in hand with Isaac to ensure continuity between the sermon and the rest of the elements of the service. Andy desires to see the church be relevant not only in its message, but in the means used to communicate that message.
Andy and his wife, Ashley, were happily wed right here at Summit, in 2008. They have two adorable children, Janie Caroline and Finnley Jameson.
Have a question for Andy? Contact him.
Jeff Kern Organizational Development Pastor
A Business graduate from the University of Michigan, Jeff spent many years working in the marketplace before entering into full time ministry, and he brings over 27 years of business and vocational leadership experience to the team. Jeff began working with a grassroots missions organization of only 23 staff members, for which he eventually served as President until 2004. His extensive business and leadership development background provided the perfect recipe for growth, as they expanded to nearly 600 staff, operating in over 23 different countries. It was through this organization that Jeff found himself at Purdue University in 1989, facilitating a church plant there. It was there that he met his wife, Jill.
A few years later, now with their four children, Stephanie, Katie, Kimberly and Michael, Jeff’s family moved here to Orlando in 2001.
As Summit’s Organizational Development Pastor, Jeff’s responsibilities include helping to equip staff to better utilize their God-given talents and passions, and cultivating leadership from within both the staff and congregation alike. Jeff finds his greatest sense of vocational satisfaction is in increasing the capacity of leaders, and of the organizations in which they serve.
Have a question for Jeff? Contact him.
Garry Abbott Multi-site Development Minister
Born and raised in Southern Indiana, Garry Abbott and his family moved here to Florida in December of 2007, and began attending Summit just 3 days later. Prior to their arrival, they’d been “attending” the church digitally via podcast and website resources for some time.
As the Multi-site Development Minister, Garry is responsible for the formation and oversight of new Summit multi-site campuses—a fitting partnership, as it was through God’s innovative use of technology that he and his family first became participants within Summit Church. Responsibilities include leading teams through the initial formation process, carrying out Summit’s vision, and training and equipping leaders at each new campus. He is most excited about working to establish new places within the Summit community where more people can know that they are part of God’s plan and purpose for restoration, regardless of where they live.
Garry graduated from Ball State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture. He completed a number of Missionary directed electives, and is currently attending Asbury Theological Seminary in the Master’s of Divinity program. Garry asserts that his primary ministry is his family, which he describes as, “the closest and most intimate relationship God has blessed me with, and to which he desires me to dedicate myself most fully.” Garry and his wife Abbie were married in 2001, and are the proud parents of Caleb, and Eden.
Have a question for Garry? Contact him.
Allie Adams Multi-site Administrator
Allie is the Multi-site Administrator and assists Garry Abbott in the in the launch of new campuses. Other responsibilities include assisting the Strategy Team, the Senior Governance Team, and All-Staff and event coordination. Allie graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Public Administration.
In her spare time, you might find her running, taking classes at the YMCA, reading, or visiting her wonderful family in Jacksonville. Besides traveling at every opportunity, one of her favorite things to do is hang out with her really insightful and funny parents on their back porch.
Have a question for Allie? Contact her.
O.J. Aldrich Herndon Student Ministries Director
O.J. grew up in Bradenton, FL, and graduated from UF (GO GATORS!!!) with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.
O.J. brings almost twenty years of experience in student ministry to Summit through Young Life and Young Life Capernaum. As Herndon Student Ministries Director, O.J. is responsible for all of Summit Students (Surge for middle school and The Edge for high school) at the Herndon Campus, as well as working directly with high school students. He is passionate about seeing the vision of Summit lived out in the lives of middle and high school students.
O.J. and his amazing wife Rachael have been married since 2005. They have an incredible daughter, A.J. (Anna Jude, named for her grandmothers Anne and Judy) and a dog, Farley (named after the illustrious Chris Farley). When not working, O.J. loves hanging out with his daughter, going to the beach with his family, playing guitar, watching movies, reading, traveling, and hanging out with Eddie Kaufholz, his BFF.
Have a question for O.J.? Contact him.
Sam Arocho Waterford Campus Minister
Sam grew up in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, the youngest of five children. He graduated from UCF with a BA in Marketing, and is currently pursuing his MBA. Sam began attending Summit in June of 2009 and quickly jumped in by leading the jobSERVE initiative.
As Waterford Campus Minister, Sam is responsible for carrying out the vision of Summit at the Waterford campus. This includes leading all the ministries and volunteers at Summit Waterford, helping people connect in Christ-centered community, and pastoral care.
Sam and his wife, Carolina, were married on December 6th, 2003. They have two sons, Samuel David and Matthew Alexander. When not working, Sam enjoys spending time with his wife and boys. He is an avid fan of all sports.
Have a question for Sam? Contact him.
Brian Banks Plaza Ministry Coordinator
Brian was an Air Force brat, raised primarily in Panama City. He moved to Orlando in 2001 to attend UCF where he earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology. He went on to earn his MS in Organizational Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic. Brian and his wife, Erin, have been attending Summit since early 2009.
As the Plaza Ministry Coordinator, Brian provides a quality first impression throughout the week to his community. He handles all Plaza Campus event coordination, calendar coordination, niceSERVE, and oversight of the Sunday First Impressions volunteer team.
He is an avid fan of sports, ministry, and the combination of the two. He loves the linkage of trivia, pizza, and Bill Cosby. He would also tell you that the greatest television show ever is the Cosby Show.
Have a question for Brian? Contact him.
Tracy Beeson Herndon Children's Ministry Director
In August of 2003, Tracy moved to Orlando from West Palm Beach to attend UCF. By February of the next year, she was calling Summit home. The very first service she attended at Summit was enough to get her excited about the work God was doing here. For three years, she found any way she could to get involved—whether that meant cleaning toilets, painting walls, or playing with kids. The latter of the three is what eventually brought her into a staff position at Summit. With a degree in psychology and years of experience working with middle and high school students, Tracy understands the importance of letting kids know that they matter to God, and that they can make a difference in the world around them.
Tracy’s responsibilities include monitoring and directing Summit’s Children’s Ministry. She organizes and equips people to serve on Sunday mornings, and constantly cultivates new ways to communicate to our children that they are a vital part of the body of Christ. In her spare time, Tracy is an avid runner with two marathons under her belt.
Have a question for Tracy? Contact her.
Bill Behr Associate Campus Minister for Summit at 33rd Street
Born and raised in Winter Park, Bill graduated from Florida State University (Go Noles!). He is currently attending Asbury Seminary and working on his Masters in Theology. He has been a partner at Summit since 2008 and is a familiar face on the Herndon Campus’ First Impressions team. Prior to joining the Summit staff, he owned his own tile and stone company for 14 years.
As Associate Campus Minister for Summit at 33rd Street, Bill helps coordinate the worship services and mentorship program for Summit’s jail multi-site. He is passionate about sharing the love of Christ with the men at 33rd Street and inviting them to discover how change is possible through Jesus.
When not working, Bill enjoys being active outdoors. Activities include fishing, hiking, golfing, and working in the garden. He also considers himself an amateur handyman and really enjoys breaking things and then fixing the things he breaks.
Have a question for Bill? Contact him.
Joey Bradshaw Worship Manager
Joey performs a variety of roles at Summit, most notably coordination of the worship team and volunteers. In addition to helping carry out many of the day-to-day details of preparing a weekly worship service, he leads the Summit church band, The Commitments. He first became involved in leading worship at Northland Church, and where served for six years working as a musician. Although he has been involved with Summit’s worship since its beginnings, Joey officially joined the Summit staff in the Fall of 2006.
Joey attended the University of Central Florida, where he studied art, and was married to his wife, Lauren, in 2006. In 2010, Joey and Lauren welcomed their first child, a baby boy named Henry, into the world. Among other hobbies, Joey enjoys retaking staff photos for this particular page.
Have a question for Joey? Contact him.
Tiffanie Brunson Communications Administrator
Tiffanie began attending Summit in 2008. After completing an Internship in the summer of 2011, she quickly joined the staff. As Communications Administrator, Tiffanie facilitates and maintains day-to-day operations in the Communications Department. This includes a number of responsibilities, such as printing promotional material for campuses, setting up lobby displays, keeping track of our social media sites (Twitter, Facebook, etc.), and coordinating volunteer teams.
Tiffanie was born in Orlando and is a student at UCF, studying Marketing and Digital Media. She enjoys baking delicious treats, bike rides, music, meeting new people, and trying out new recipes. She also really loves traveling and spending time with her family.
Have a question for Tiffanie? Contact her.
Dave Burleson Waterford Worship Coordinator
Dave moved to Orlando from Stuart, FL, to attend UCF. After receiving a Master’s in Interactive Entertainment, he had a brief stint working on a variety of gaming titles at Electronic Arts before taking on the role of Waterford Worship Coordinator.
As Waterford Worship Coordinator, Dave is responsible for overseeing the worship elements of service at Summit Waterford, working with the bands to ensure consistency and creativity in the worship services, and managing worship volunteers.
Dave and his wife Ana started attending Summit in 2007 and were married in late 2008. In December of 2010 they had their first child, a baby boy named Jonah. When not working, Dave enjoys writing songs and playing basketball. He may be best known for playing the ukelele at Summit’s Beach Baptisms.
Have a question for Dave? Contact him.
Kyle Cox High School Coordinator
Growing up in a military family, Kyle has lived in various places, including Nebraska, Washington D.C., and Texas, where he was born. He graduated from UCF with his Bachelors in Business and has been at Summit for about five years.
As High School Coordinator, Kyle’s responsibilities include leading the team of volunteers that pour themselves into The Edge, Summit’s high school ministry, and investing in the lives of high school students. In addition, Kyle is in charge of worship for all of Student Ministries at the Herndon campus. He is wonderfully suited for such a task with his love and appreciation of music.
In addition to his work with Summit Student Ministries, Kyle volunteers regularly with the Summit Worship team and performs his solo work locally. He also composes music for local videographers. Kyle says that music is his favorite creative outlet and you will rarely find him doing something non-musical.
Have a question for Kyle? Contact him.
Will Dickinson Summit Connect Coordinator
Born in Birmingham, Alabama, Will moved to central Florida at the age of 5 and has lived in the area since then. He graduated from Rollins College in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in Music and a minor in Business Administration. Will made Summit his church home in the summer of 2006, and became increasingly more involved as a volunteer on the Worship Team and as a reGROUP leader, and then as an intern for the Resource Center. As Summit Connect Coordinator, his primary responsibility will be to make joining a Connect Group easier as well as to give leaders better tools to serve their groups. He will also continue to manage the Resource Center and coordinate the volunteers who serve there.
Will is an avid college football fan, and his hobbies also include playing and going to see live music, cooking, and reading.
Have a question for Will? Contact him.
Mary Escobar Waterford Administrative Assistant
Mary was born and raised in Jersey and moved to Florida in 2002. She is currently a Business major at the University of Central Florida.
Mary first attended Summit Church at the Waterford campus and it was pretty much love at first sight. She got involved a few weeks later by volunteering on the First Impressions team, and then moved to Base Camp after serving in the nursery during niceSERVE. She loves her Ocean kids to pieces!
As Waterford Administrative Assistant to Campus Minister Sam Arocho, Mary performs a wide variety of roles. Her primary responsibilities include coordination of calendars and appointments and general office management of the Waterford campus.
Rob Fields Research and Curriculum Coordinator
Rob was born and raised in Jacksonville, FL and studied biology at UF (Go Gators!). After working for the UF Wesley Foundation (where he met his wife, Marie) he felt called into ministry. He attended Asbury Seminary and recently graduated with a Master’s in Christian Education.
As Research and Curriculum Coordinator, Rob’s role is to work within the various ministries of the church to assist in the evaluation and development of curriculum and other written materials. Other responsibilities including working on curriculum for the Essentials class, researching sermon topics for the pastoral staff, and various writing projects for the church.
Rob is a big fan of Florida Football, and goes to Gainesville to attend games as often as he can. Other hobbies include going to movies, reading, and distance running with Marie (he has one marathon under his belt so far…).
Rob and Marie have been married since 2005 and welcomed their first child into the world, a daughter named Grace, in January of 2011.
Have a question for Rob? Contact him.
Miriannette Gayoso Administrative Assistant
Miriannette was born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico and grew up in Orlando. Her parents are Cuban and Puerto Rican, and she speaks fluent Spanish. She graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in Forensic Science.
Miriannette began attending Summit in 2010 and joined the staff in October of 2011. As Administrative Assistant to Isaac Hunter and Jeff Kern, she performs a wide variety of roles. Her primary responsibilities include coordination of calendars and appointments and general office management.
When not working, Miriannette loves reading, singing, and watching movies. She is a huge fan of musical theatre. In high school, she performed the role of Maria in West Side Story and Cosette in Les Miserables. Her passion for acting and singing continues to this day… On Sunday mornings she can usually be found at the Herndon campus performing as Isabelle in Base Camp Live!, Summit’s family production.
Have a question for Miriannette? Contact her.
Jessica Gomez Herndon Children's Ministry Administrator
Jessica is from Fort Myers but has lived in Orlando since 2001 when she moved here to go to UCF. She has an undergraduate degree in Biology and an MA in science education. She taught middle school life science for four years prior to coming on staff. She and her husband, David, have been at Summit for about five years. She loves working with kids and has been volunteering in Base Camp for two years.
As Herndon Children’s Ministry Administrator, Jessica is responsible for equipping volunteers with curriculum and supplies for Foothills and Stepping Stones, maintaining organization within the Children’s Ministry, and working with Tracy and Soo in various other administrative tasks.
When Jessica isn’t in Base Camp showing kids how much God loves them, she enjoys traveling to new places, reading, watching movies, and going to Sea World. Jessica and her husband have an adorable baby boy named Ezra. They also have a Chihuahua named Ricky.
Have a question for Jessica? Contact her.
Kailey Hamilton Bookkeeper // HR Administrator
A History major from Pennsylvania, Kailey found her church home here at Summit in the Fall of 2006. In addition to her primary role as bookkeeper, she performs a variety of writing and editing duties (including these bios) wherever necessary, and coordinates the content and management of Summit’s Resource Center. Prior to moving to Orlando, Kailey was a high school History teacher in PA, and spent 3 years serving with a para-church ministry called Campus Life, a facet of Youth for Christ geared toward reaching unchurched teens.
Kailey loves reading, juggling, shooting pool, putting things in list form, and often indulges in a profound affection for competitive board games. Of the things she misses most from Pennsylvania, the colors of Fall, the smell of snow, gleaning wisdom over coffee with old professors—come second only to her wonderful, crazy family.
Have a question for Kailey? Contact her.
Elizabeth Hartsell Herndon Community Engagement Coordinator
Elizabeth was born near Chicago, but spent her early childhood in the Philippines. By middle school, her family had returned to the U.S. and landed in Panama City, FL. Elizabeth studied Psychology and Classics at UF and was active in Asian American Leadership Development. She later transferred to UCF to certify in Non-Profit Management after taking a few years off to work in federal disaster relief. She began attending Summit in 2006 through sermon CDs sent from her sister and via podcast while doing field-work following Hurricane Katrina.
As Herndon Community Engagement Coordinator, it is Elizabeth’s responsibility to cultivate the vision and mission of Summit Church through active service ministries, implementation of niceSERVE and jobSERVE at Herndon, collaboration with Community/Nonprofit Partners, and outreach to targeted communities.
Elizabeth is passionate about service and loves movies, big band swing and jazz, live music, the Gators, dancing, martial arts, exploring new places, disappearing into book world, and clever word combinations. She is also a sci-fi aficionado.
Have a question for Elizabeth? Contact her.
Brian Hogan Media Coordinator
Brian grew up in northern Illinois, where he was surrounded with cornfields and snow. He graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2004 and moved to Orlando for a job opportunity in video production. The humidity and vast orange groves of Florida have been quite the change of scenery.
Brian’s role at Summit as our Media Coordinator has him working alongside many other ministries within the church that relate to media implementation. He is great at motion graphic design, video editing, and other things involving moving pictures.
In his spare time he basically likes to do anything that falls under the category of “Keepin’ It Real.”
Have a question for Brian? Contact him.
Doris Herrero Waterford Children's Ministry Director
Doris was born in Puerto Rico and spent her elementary years in North Carolina. She moved to Orlando while in middle school and has been here ever since. She went to UCF to pursue her Bachelors in Nursing, but God had a different plan for her life, hence the reason why she’s on staff at Summit. Doris met her husband, Javier, when she was 11 years old! They have been married for almost 11 years and it’s been an amazing experience.
As Waterford Children’s Ministry Director, Doris is responsible for overseeing all of Base Camp at Summit Waterford. This includes training and equipping volunteers to help kids understand that they matter to God.
Doris and Javier have been incredibly blessed with three amazing kids. They enjoy Soccer Saturdays as a family and love going to theme parks. They have been attending Summit since the summer of 2008. Doris also plays Mrs. C in the Waterford BCL cast and her husband is affectionately known as the “guy who plays all those instruments” in the Caretakers band.
Have a question for Doris? Contact her.
Kyle Jackson IT Administrator
Kyle moved to Orlando in February 2010, quickly found Summit and started volunteering. His dedication and affinity for technology made it a quick jump for him to join the team. He manages all the computers and servers at Summit while maximizing everyone’s potential inner-awesome.
Before Kyle was at Summit he lived in the suburbs of Atlanta and then the woods of the Appalachian Trail where he lived and hiked for 6 months. When Kyle isn’t making all the computers at Summit run smoothly he enjoys adventuring, exploring, reading, and daydreaming about being back on the trail.
Have a question for Kyle? Contact him.
Eddie Kaufholz Herndon Campus Minister
Eddie grew up in Seminole, Florida and received his undergrad in Family, Youth, and Community Science from the University of Florida and his Masters in Counseling at Asbury Theological Seminary (He was in a class with Isaac who invited him to Summit for the first time).
At Summit, he is serving as a minister at the Herndon campus. He is passionate about helping people find the best care either in or outside of the Herndon campus. He will also be working to place people in Summit Connect groups, start new groups, equip leadership of these groups, and develop curriculum. He believes that Connect groups are where we truly embody what church is and live out what it means to learn, serve, and worship together.
He and his wife, Brianne, met at the University of Florida and married in 2005. She is the person he respects most in this world. When he is not spending time with his wife you can find Eddie playing music with The Interns, traveling, exploring the outdoors, cheering on the gators or enjoying great food and coffee.
To contact Eddie, please contact his office.
Jill Kern Herndon Children's Ministry Evening Coordinator
Jill Kern grew up in a blessed military family, as her father was a Army chaplain. She graduated from Purdue University with a Communications degree. She has volunteered in Base Camp in different capacities, from teacher to First Impressions. She strongly believes in the vision of Summit and wants to help where ever she can be most effective. Currently, she is helping coordinate the 6:00pm Base Camp children’s ministry at the Herndon Campus. She organizes volunteers, distributes curriculum, and serves families by taking an hour and a half to support parents in reaching the hearts of their children for Christ.
She has been married to her wonderful husband, Jeff, for 21 years. They have three daughters and a son who, as she says, “brighten and expand my world every day”. She enjoys time with family & friends, eating outside, and photography. She can’t think of a better place to be than Indiana in the fall when the maple trees are at their peak.
Have a question for Jill? Contact her.
Kristy-Lee Lawley Communications Director
A Communications graduate from the University of Central Florida, Kristy-Lee spent her immediate post-college years working as a graphic artist for WESH-TV, an affiliate of NBC. It was during this endeavor that she realized her love for print media and design. Kristy came on staff when Summit was in its earliest stages, providing a wonderful combination of both pure talent and a dogged work ethic. It is under her care and direction that the Communications Department has grown to include multiple staff, providing quarterly SUMMIT MAGAZINEs, weekly e-letters, a revamped website, and a following of partners in the Twitter online community.
Kristy’s primary responsibilities include being the the Editorial/ Art Director for the SUMMIT MAGAZINE, giving art direction for sermon series and all print media, web upkeep, and keeping the congregation informed through mailers and e-letters. Kristy loves brainstorming with the creative team for new and innovative ways to diffuse information into the Summit community, through both fun and effective forums. In her spare time, she also volunteers with the Summit family ministry, Base Camp Live!, where she plays the role of Cammie.
Have a question for Kristy? Contact her.
Joel LeGros Technical Coordinator
Born in Lafayette, LA, Joel moved to Cape Coral, FL, at the age of five. Joel studied at FAU in Boca Raton, completing a dual major in Commercial Music and Music Performance before moving back to Cape Coral and marrying his beautiful wife, Elaina. The Pair then moved here to Orlando to continue their education at UCF, where Joel is currently working towards a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.
At Summit, Joel helps to coordinate the technical volunteers of Summit’s worship and church wide events. In addition, his responsibilities include technical problem solving/equipment servicing, weekly worship setup, mixing/facilitation of Summit’s weekly worship cd, and helping to develop foundations for the vision of Summit’s technical ministry alongside the Worship Pastor and Worship Manager. In his spare time, you are most likely to find Joel either researching boutique recording equipment, or trying to actually build it.
Have a question for Joel? Contact him.
Kristen Marks Herndon Elementary Productions Coordinator
Born in New Jersey, Kristen grew up in Jacksonville. While in middle school, she began volunteering in the wonderful world of children’s ministry. She graduated from the University of Florida in May 2010 with a degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences.
Kristen was first introduced to Summit in 2007 by fellow staff member Amy Scott and loved it. When she moved to Orlando in September of 2010 to intern with Children of the Nations, it was only natural that she made Summit her church home and started volunteering as a storyteller in Large Group.
As Herndon Elementary Productions Coordinator, Kristen oversees every aspect of the weekly Large Group production that kids attend while their parents are in service. This includes writing and editing scripts, coordinating worship, designing graphics and slides, coordinating volunteers, and running rehearsals for the three Large Groups on Sunday mornings. Kristen believes in the importance of letting kids know how much they matter to God, and it is her goal to empower them to not only make a difference in the future as leaders of the Church, but also right now in their homes, schools, and friendships.
Kristen loves watching sports (Go Gators and Yankees!), listening to music, being outside, hanging out with friends and family, traveling (especially to Africa), going to the beach, playing the piano, watching the latest Modern Family episode, and J. Crew.
Brendan May Technical Administrator
Brendan was born and raised right here in Orlando (Altamonte Springs, to be specific). He attended UCF and received his B.A. in History in December 2011. In 2007, he went on academic hiatus to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer. After serving as a patrol officer in Maitland, FL for six months, Brendan realized the Lord was leading him out of the profession. Since that time, he’s been honing his chops on the bass guitar and completing school. Brendan began attending Summit Church since 2005 and absolutely loves it here. He has volunteered in just about every department (and is the bassist in several Summit bands). To be a part of the staff is a dream come true for him.
As Technical Administrator, Brendan is responsible for keeping all of Summit’s technological/worship equipment organized and in its place, as well as overseeing sound engineers and tech volunteers. He strives to be the best steward he can be over the resources the Lord has blessed Summit with.
When not working, Brendan loves spending time with his beautiful wife Anna, playing the bass guitar, listening to Motown records, getting lost in books, and learning tons of obscure historical information. He also loves walking, training, and just sitting with his dog, Belle.
Have a question for Brendan? Contact him.
Deanna McLellan Plaza Preschool Ministry Coordinator
Originally from Atlanta, Deanna made it to Orlando to attend UCF. She graduated in 2006 with her degree in Elementary Education. She’s been teaching kindergarten and first grade ever since. Deanna started attending Summit in 2007 and quickly began volunteering with Stepping Stones at the Herndon campus. Her heart for children has made Deanna a wonderful addition to the Base Camp team.
As Plaza Preschool Ministry Coordinator, Deanna is in charge of communicating with the volunteers, scheduling, and overseeing the pre-school portion of Base Camp. She is excited to work with the volunteers each week to show kids how much they are loved by God.
Deanna and her husband, Adam, were married in March 2010. She enjoys playing bocce ball in the park, being crafty, eating cupcakes, reading, and trying new recipes.
Have a question for Deanna? Contact her.
Jessica Meyer First Impressions Manager
Jessica is a UCF Marketing graduate and Summit’s First Impressions Manager. Jessica oversees all of the volunteer teams at Summit Herndon and The Plaza, including First Impressions, Coffee Baristas, and the Parking Team. She welcomes and introduces guests to Summit at the Newcomers Review. Jessica also loves helping people plug into volunteering at Summit by using their God-given talents and abilities. She hosts the Volunteer Preview, a 20-minute introduction to serving at Summit.
Jessica and her husband, Andrew, met right here at Summit, where she has been a partner since 2004. In addition to a flair for creative baking, you might find Jessica reading, biking, playing board games, or checking out local city events and festivals with her husband. Jessica spent two years working in the Hospitality Industry before joining the Summit staff in 2008.
Have a question for Jessica? Contact her.
Darling Murray Herndon BCL Coordinator
After being born in New York, Darling was raised here in Orlando, Florida. In the summer of 2007 she attended The Focus on the Family Institute and graduated from The University of Central Florida in 2009 with a degree in Exceptional Education.
Her responsibilities at Summit include overseeing Summit’s family production BCL! which involves everything from editing scripts, working with the Base Camp staff and volunteers, and finding new and creative ways to help families grow together.
When Darling isn’t at Summit she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, watching Magic games, and acting silly whenever she can.
Have a question for Darling? Contact her.
Michael Murray Writer & Editor
Michael began serving at Summit in early 2009 and has loved every moment of it. After serving as a summer Intern, he felt a strong call from God to end his career as a Graduate student (he was pursuing a Masters in Theatre at UCF) and join the Summit team full-time… So he did!
As Writer & Editor, Michael loves being involved with every department at Summit. His primary responsibilities include writing and editing BCL! scripts, creating study guides, writing blogs, working on the SUMMIT MAGAZINE, and helping fellow staff members clearly communicate their message.
Michael loves steak, listening to music (especially show tunes!), working out, watching basketball, and spending time with his family, friends, and Summit community. He also loves going to lunch with John Parker, who he considers to be the coolest man alive.
Have a question for Michael? Contact him.
Josh Pearson Plaza Worship Coordinator
Born in Chattanooga, TN, Josh spent his childhood years in Louisville, KY. Josh’s love of music began at an early age when his dad, a pastor and worship leader, taught him how to play guitar during his middle school years. Josh soon found himself leading worship at various churches and church events. After attending Moody Bible Institute for a while, he signed a record deal and began touring with the band Nevertheless as the lead singer/songwriter.
Josh was first introduced to Summit by Amy (who would later become his wife) in 2002. They tied the knot here at Summit in August of 2007 and spent their first two years as a married couple in Tennessee. They moved back to Orlando at the end of 2009 and quickly plugged into Summit again.
As Plaza Worship Coordinator, Josh’s primary responsibilities include leading worship, playing with different bands, and assisting the worship staff in putting the many pieces of the puzzle in place throughout the week. When he isn’t working, you’ll usually find Josh reading (The Alphabet of Grace by Frederick Buechner, Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway, Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller, and The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen are five of his favorite books), exploring new places, or hanging out with his lovely wife and spastic Chiweenie (a mix between Chihuahua and Dachshund). Josh and Amy have an adorable son named Samuel Ellis!
Have a question for Josh? Contact him.
Soo Peterson Herndon Preschool Ministry Coordinator
Soo moved to Orlando from her home-state of Minnesota after getting married to her husband, J.J. She has a degree in Communications/ Public Relations from Northwestern College, where she and her husband met during their first semester. At Summit, Soo oversees Stepping Stones, the preschool ministry, for Base Camp. She loves working alongside all of the amazing volunteers and is excited to share the love of Jesus to the kids.
When Soo isn’t at Summit she likes watching the Food Network, jogging, reading, and traveling.
Have a question for Soo? Contact her.
Jeff Porter Facilities Director
Jeff grew up in Merritt Island (near Cocoa Beach) where he spent most of his time fishing and playing sports. Jeff and his wife, Alison, began attending Summit in 2006. Jeff volunteered as a handyman, and in December of 2011 joined the staff as the Facilities Director. Jeff graduated from UCF in 1999 with a BS in Civil Engineering and is a licensed Professional Engineer. He’s worked as a consulting engineer and land developer for the 13 years prior to coming on staff at Summit.
As Facilities Director, Jeff is responsible for the daily operation, use, and functionality of the church facilities. The role is chocked full of interesting tasks such as changing light bulbs, repairing drywall, coordinating volunteers, and making sure the spaces are accessible and comfortable for all services and events throughout the year. Jeff is excited to apply his professional experience to help with Summit’s building expansions, renovations, and multi-site planning and construction efforts.
Jeff and Alison have two daughters, Kendall and Kayden. Although Jeff still loves to fish, golf has become his second favorite past time, next to spending time with his beautiful family.
Have a question for Jeff? Contact him.
Teresa Pratt Herndon Campus Administrator
After growing up outside of Clearwater, FL, Teresa moved to Orlando in order to study Hospitality Management at UCF. She was involved with Young Life, a high school ministry and enjoyed sharing Jesus with the students.
Teresa started attending Summit in 2007 and was first attracted to the unique style of worship here. She even fell in love with one of our drummers, J.P, and they were married in February of 2011. Teresa served as Summit’s full-time Receptionist for over a year before taking on the role of Herndon Campus Administrator.
Teresa is responsible for overseeing administration at the Herndon campus. This includes coordinating the Herndon Minister’s calendar & appointments and general office management.
When Teresa isn’t at Summit she loves to cook fancy meals for her husband and friends, decorate her home (by season), and watch football with her Connect group!
Have a question for Teresa? Contact her.
Cory Quintard Herndon Worship Coordinator
After growing up in Jacksonville, Cory moved to Orlando to attend UCF.
Since he was 7, Cory has been playing musical instruments and has since figured out his love for writing his own music.
After attending Summit for year and a half, Cory became Summit’s worship intern. From there he was hired as Herndon Worship Coordinator. Cory coordinates and plans the service flow and elements on a weekly basis at the Herndon campus. In addition to this, he leads the Summit bands, “The Interns” and “The Score” and plays in the band “Atlas 9”.
When he isn’t being musical or volunteering at Summit he enjoys traveling, rock climbing, and going to movies.
Have a question for Cory? Contact him.
Shawn Romano Digital Media Director
Shawn helps create and oversee the visual assets of Summit’s worship services. He works alongside the communications team, worship department, and technical coordinator volunteers to make sure the flow of visuals are smooth and cohesive at each of our venues. He is an animator, design enthusiast, food lover, and fledgling social scientist. He doesn’t like running.
Shawn and his wife Katie were married in 2003 and have lived in upstate New York and Savannah. They like hanging at the beach, picnics, scenic drives, window-shopping, dinner, and conversation with good friends. Orlando has grown on them, but the community at Summit is really what made them fall in love with Central Florida.
Have a question for Shawn? Contact him.
Amy Scott Receptionist
Amy is the friendly first impression at Summit and serves the staff and congregation in so many ways.
Growing up as a Navy brat has allowed Amy to live all across the U.S.A. (even Hawaii!). Her travels led her to Orlando, FL and she graduated from the University of Central Florida in 2011 with a degree in Event Management. An attendee since 2007, Amy has volunteered in many different ministries since making Summit her church home.
Amy enjoys spending time with great people, traveling, and searching for new food blogs. She also loves researching cool and interesting places around the world and praying that one day she will get to visit them!
Have a question for Amy? Contact her.
David Tate Waterford Base Camp Productions Coordinator
David grew up in West Palm Beach and is one of six children in his family.
He graduated from UCF with a degree in Acting, and is currently pursuing a second degree in Accounting. David quickly put his acting abilities to good use at Summit by volunteering in Large Group at the Herndon campus.
As Waterford Base Camp Productions Coordinator, David has the longest title at Summit (although that hasn’t been officially verified). In this role, David continues to use his acting and directing talents to coordinate the Large Group and Base Camp Live! programs at the Waterford campus.
When not working, David loves watching football (he’s a Miami Dolphin fan, and admits it’s been a rough decade), and playing any sport that involves using his athleticism.
Have a question for David? Contact him.
Rene Vazquez Community Engagement Director
Born in Puerto Rico, Rene moved to Orlando when he was just five years old. While in college, he spent four months serving on a missions team in Bolivia, and discovered a deep passion for hurting and impoverished individuals. Rene’s desire to serve the community led him to work with Orlando Union Rescue Mission, where he was able to assist families that were in need of food and shelter. He later worked as an EMT for the City of Orlando.
Rene’s passion for people in need was a catalyst to his volunteer work at Summit. He began serving with niceSERVE, a church-wide service day that Summit holds quarterly. After helping to build strong ties to organizations both inside and outside the community of Orlando, Rene was asked to join the Summit staff as Service Coordinator in 2007. Rene hopes to see the body of Christ form meaningful, symbiotic, deep-rooted relationships with the broken, and to help lead them into the arms of Jesus. In addition to helping Summit engage in service, he is also the Campus Minister at the 33rd Street Jail multi-site.
Rene’s wife, Monica, holds the same passion as her husband for the broken and hurting, and serves the Orlando community as a Social Worker. Rene and Monica were married in October 2006. In 2011, Rene and Monica became the proud parents of a cute baby boy named Elias.
Have a question for Rene? Contact him.
Ryan Warner Middle School Minister
Ryan graduated from UCF in 2006, and has since received his Masters Degree in Youth Ministry from Asbury Theological Seminary. As Summit’s Middle School Minister, Ryan’s responsibilities include leading the team of volunteers that pour themselves into the middle school ministry, investing in relationships with middle school students, teaching students about Christ’s love for them, and overseeing the vision and direction of Summit’s middle school ministry, Surge.
Ryan and his wife Katelyn have been attending Summit since 2004. When he is not at Summit, Ryan continues to wait for the Cubs to win a World Series and enjoys firing up the grill to create tasty meals for himself and his lovely bride.
Have a question for Ryan? Contact him.
Jack West reGroup Director
After graduating from Stetson University in 1996, Jack joined his father in the family business right here in Orlando, where he was born and raised. Jack recognized his passion for ministry and authentic relationships, and knew that this would eventually become his vocation. After making his church home here at Summit, it was not long before he was asked to join the team in 2007 as the Summit Connect Director.
Jack’s primary responsibility is to implement and cast further vision for Summit’s community development initiative, Summit Connect, and the Summit Connect ministry, reGroup. Jack finds tremendous joy in witnessing the way group life impacts the congregation, as they form authentic, Christ-centered community, seeking to grow and to encourage others.
In his spare time, you will often find Jack reading, surfing, running in the woods, swimming at the pool, or zipping around the outskirts of town on his bike. He enjoys just about every outdoor activity, completing 2 Ironman triathalons, and living by the motto: “Kill your television.”
Have a question for Jack? Contact him.
Jennifer Winderbaum Waterford Administrator
Jenny was born in Miami, Florida and moved to Orlando after graduating from the Univeristy of Florida. GO GATORS!! She has a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in Early Childhood/Special Education and has been a teacher in Orange County for the past 7 years. She has attended Summit since 2009 and has served as a summer Intern and volunteered with Base Camp and the First Impressions team.
As the Waterford Administrator, Jenny’s role is to create a weloming and friendly environment for everyone worshiping at Summit. This includes working with volunteer teams and coordinating events such as Newcomer’s Review and Group Day.
Jenny is quite the fan of our local theme parks. Her favorite rides are Space Mountain and the Carousel of Progress. She loves anything related to 90s pop culture, and can be frequently found driving around Orlando with ’N Sync blasting on her stereo.
Have a question for Jenny? Contact her.
Sarah Badders Children's Ministry Intern
Sarah was born in Charleston SC, but grew up in Orlando (she used to watch movies with her family at Summit’s Herndon campus back when it was an AMC!). She graduated from UCF with a degree in Elementary Education. Sarah started attending Summit in February of 2006, and began volunteering with Stepping Stones and Foothills shortly after.
As Children’s Ministry Intern, Sarah is responsible for coordinating Foothills. Her primary roles include equipping the amazing Foothills coaches and small group leaders, ensuring that small groups run smoothly, and monitoring/editing curriculum. Sarah’s desire is to see kids understand how much God loves them and for volunteers to understand that what they do in the lives of kids really matters!
When not working, you may find Sarah reading, putting puzzles together, and visiting Harry Potter World. She has a passion for organizing things (and if color-coding is possible, even better!).
Have a question for Sarah? Contact her.
Jordan Kauffman Waterford Student Ministries Intern
Jordan was born in Georgetown, Washington D.C. and spent the first half of his life in
Northern Virginia being home schooled, reenacting Dragonball Z episodes, and climbing the trees in his backyard so high that the fire department had to come rescue him once (true story). Jordan comes from a big family; he has four younger brothers and two younger sisters. He began attending Summit in 2008 and can sometimes be seen on Sundays singing in various worship bands.
As Waterford Student Ministries Intern, it is Jordan’s job to sustain and grow Launch, Waterford’s Student Ministry. Responsibilities include planning and organizing weekly events, leading worship, and connecting students into Christ-centered relationships with leaders and other students. He loves the community of believers that he gets to serve alongside for the purpose of furthering God’s Kingdom.
Jordan love Jesus, Spider-Man, the human voice, the outdoors, and ridiculously fast motorcycles (in that order). He also enjoys music, black licorice, and cartoon and superhero movies.
Have a question for Jordan? Contact him.
Sarah Maton Herndon Student Ministries Intern
Born in Niceville, Florida (a good 6 1/2 hours and a time zone away!), Sarah moved to Orlando in 2008 to attending UCF, where she is currently majoring in Event Management with a minor in Spanish. Sarah found Summit shortly after arriving, and jumped right into volunteering with Stepping Stones.
As Herndon Student Ministries Intern, Sarah’s main responsibilities include facilitating Connect groups for The Edge (high school ministry), leading a girls’ Connect group, coordinating events for Surge (middle school ministry), and administrative tasks such as keeping records of students in Fellowship One.
Sarah’s hobbies include reading, dabbling in guitar, watching old movies, listening to
music, and being a dedicated UCF Knight. Upon graduation, Sarah plans on going to graduate school to study marriage and family therapy.
Have a question for Sarah? Contact her.
Nathan Boyett Financial and Information Management Intern
Nathan grew up in South Florida and moved to Orlando in 2007 to attend UCF, where he is currently majoring in Industrial Engineering with a Minor in Spanish. After hearing about Summit from several different people, Nathan looked it up on the Internet one Saturday night and has been coming ever since! He started volunteering in the Resource Center, and was later offered an Internship position.
As Financial and Information Management Intern, Nathan helps with bookkeeping, maintains the integrity of the information in Summit’s database, and keeps documentation of Summit’s assets across all campuses.
When not studying or working at Summit, Nathan enjoys reading, surfing, fishing, and watching football. He is also starting an organization to raise support for the Children’s Ministry of a church in San José, Costa Rica.
Have a question for Nathan? Contact him.
