Meet the Team

Transitional Minister

What Rev. Cynthia does: A Transitional Minister offers specialized consulting that supports a ministry in navigating change and transition.

Something interesting about Rev. Cynthia: Cynthia’s first career was as a ballet dancer. The metaphors of dance and movement continue to inspire Cynthia on the spiritual journey which she views as an ongoing dance of discovery and growth.

A favorite quote: “Out beyond ideas of wrongdoing and rightdoing there is a field. I’ll meet you there.” —Rumi

Email: rev.cynthia@unityhills.org

Managing Director

What Dez does: Dez oversees strategic decisions as they pertain to the campus and its facilities, IT infrastructure, HR related duties, and the implementation of operational policies and procedures.

Something interesting about Dez: I am continuously marveled by nature and its innate ability to “heal”. Prior to my employment at UCOH, I studied alongside internationally recognized aroma therapist, author, and co-founder of Aromahead Institute, Andrea Butje to deepen my understanding, knowledge, and application of essential oils and their therapeutic benefits.

A favorite quote: “Individuation is a philosophical, spiritual, and mystical experience.” – Carl Jung

Email: dez.king@unityhills.org

Jennifer Chavez

Communications Manager/Office Manager

What Jennifer does: Sunday Service presentation, webmaster, newsletter, UCOH app. 

Something interesting about Jennifer: She’s an aspiring artist

A favorite quote: “We can choose courage or we can choose comfort, but we can’t have both. Not at the same time.”  Brené Brown

Email: jennifer.chavez@unityhills.org

Bookstore Manager

What Melissa does: 

Responsible for all aspects of Bookstore operations.  Leads the Bookstore Volunteer Team.

Something interesting about Melissa: 

Plant-based cooking is one of her passions.

A favorite quote:
“When you meet anyone, remember it is a holy encounter. As you see him you will see yourself. As you treat him you will treat yourself. As you think of him you will think of yourself. Never forget this, for in him you will find yourself or lose yourself.” A Course in Miracles

Email: melissa.larson@unityhills.org

Events Manager - Sacred Service Coordinator

What Anaiya does: Anaiya supports the cultivation, design, coordination, and success of all events hosted within Unity Church of the Hills.
Connects congregants with Sacred Service opportunities. Support our Volunteer Sacred Servers and Ministry Team Leaders.

Something interesting about Anaiya: I am in continuous intentional conversation with Spirit through my connection with the Earth Mother and Nature in the practice of veganism and organic gardening. 

A favorite quote: “You carry Mother Earth within you. She is not outside of you. Mother Earth is not just your environment. In that insight of inter-being, it is possible to have real communication with the Earth, which is the highest form of prayer.” –Thich Nhat Hanh

Email: anaiya@unityhills.org

Accounting Manager

What Susan does: All accounting functions and reporting.

Something interesting about Susan: Susan is a geek who loves slaying dragons.

A favorite quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” Oscar Wilde

Email: susan.waid@unityhills.org

Custodian

What Zoila does: 

I’m happy to clean and help whenever I am needed. I feel like I’m in a good family. 

Something interesting about Zoila: 

“The big family that is here valued me as an employee, like a family.”

A favorite quote:
“There is nothing more precious than laughter. It is strength to laugh and to abandon oneself, to be light.” Frida Kahlo