Staff and Leadership
The Rev. Hannah C. Brown, Pastor
Hannah is excited to minister with this dynamic community. As we follow Jesus, we discover opportunities to transform ourselves and the world around us, becoming liberated for more just, peaceful, and joyful lives. This is an ancient and powerful way that we make new each day. Hannah received an M.Div from Union Theological Seminary (NYC) and has served as pastor at WCUC since 2009. In 2022, she began publishing hymn texts; learn more about her hymns at hannahcbrown.com.
James Barkovic, Minister of Music
Jim enthusiastically welcomes musicians of all ages and abilities to participate in the musical life of the church. He is an accomplished church musician and choral, vocal and instrumental accompanist who also serves as director of music at Holy Family Parish, a Roman Catholic congregation across town. Jim is also the artistic director of the Westford Chorus, the assistant director and accompanist for the Spectrum Singers, the chapel organist at Middlesex School, and a faculty accompanist at the Indian Hill Music Center.
Jessica Torgerson, Director of Children’s Ministries
Jessica is passionate about developing strong faith community/home connections and documenting children’s learning and experiences to share with parents, the wider congregation, and beyond. She earned her Master’s in Teaching Early Education from Tufts University and has since been building her teaching experience in a variety of preschool settings. She joined the staff of WCUC in January 2013 and is constantly inspired and energized by the children’s insights and wisdom.
Joyce DeGreeff, Youth Director, Adult Enrichment Coordinator
Joyce is the church’s part-time youth director for grades 7-12. As the mother of four children and a part-time university chaplain, she is uniquely equipped to respond to the spiritual needs and questions of adolescents and young adults. With a passion for engaging faith in the world around us, Joyce organizes service opportunities, field trips, and other faith formation activities that invite young people to contemplate Jesus’ teachings of radical hospitality and love for all people. Recently Joyce’s work has expanded to include support for our various Adult Enrichment opportunities.
Melissa Tustin, Sunday Fellowship Director
Melissa Tustin is a passionate believer in the healing power of inclusive community. She is also a mother of three, an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church and a lover of moss, singing and Zumba. At WCUC, she works with Sunday Fellowship, a ministry of worship and friendship for people of all abilities.
Nan AK Gibbons, Young People’s Music Director
Nan AK Gibbons is a music teacher, composer, artist and writer living in central Massachusetts. This fall she celebrates 20 years as director of Worcester’s Joy of Music Program Children’s Chorus. She taught chorus and arts integration for 12 years in Worcester’s Public Schools for the Metropolitan Opera Guild. Nan currently also directs Shir Joy Chorus, a Jewish community chorus based at B’nai Shalom in Westborough, and several other choral groups. She also teaches music classes and facilitates drum circles. She earned her Master’s in Music Ed from Lesley University, and a Master’s in Theology, Worship and the Arts from Andover Newton Theological School.
Thais Ligo, Elementary Sunday School Teacher
Thais is from Brazil and has been living in the U.S. with her husband and son for more than 8 years, with the last two years in West Concord. She is so happy to be part of this wonderful community that welcomed her and her family so warmly. She loves to work with kids and help them develop their skills and learn about God. It is a beautiful path and She is lucky to participate in their faith journey.
Emily Barkovic, PR Assistant
Emily grew up in the WCUC family and has always adored the community created here. As the social media and PR representative, she strives to spread the word of this community so that others may find a home here as well. Aside from her role at WCUC, Emily is a stage and screen actor. She currently resides in New York City with her poodle/terrier mix, Honeycrisp.
Judy Rosenbaum, Church Administrator
Judy has served as church administrator since 2008. She manages the office, produces bulletins and newsletters, and coordinates and schedules the use of church spaces by members of the congregation and outside groups.
Lay Leadership
Our congregation is guided by our Leadership Council, Discipleship Ministry, Worship & Welcome Ministry, Stewardship Ministry, and many teams and task forces. These groups work faithfully to support and engage the whole congregation.