Pastor
Our new pastor, effective January 1, 2024, is Rev. Dr. Roberto Che Espinoza. Rev. Roberto earned his Ph.D. at the Iliff School of Theology at the University of Denver. He is an activist, author, teacher and preacher. In 2018 Dr. Espinoza was named one of 10 Faith Leaders to Watch by the Center for American Progress. He, his spouse Erin Law, a Visiting Assistant Professor of Dance at Alfred University, and their two cats, make their home in the Alfred area.
Administrative Secretary
Our Administrative Secretary and Newsletter editor is Rima O’Connor. Rima came to Alfred in 1991 to serve as a librarian at Alfred University, but her interests, skills, and experiences are many and varied. In addition to being a librarian at AU’s Herrick Library and at the Alfred Box of Books, she is a Veterinary Technologist who worked in a veterinary office in the area for several years. As Rima puts it, “I love books and libraries, and all creatures Great and Small!”
Rima is in the church office on Thursdays and Fridays 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Office phone: 607.587.9288. Email: uucalfred@gmail.com.
Musicians
Our pianist since 1996 is Peter O’Conner. Peter has a Bachelor’s degree in Music Theory and Composition and he specializes in jazz piano. Frequently our congregation is treated to a gospel swing postlude. In addition to his work at the church, Peter also teaches private piano lessons.
Our organist is Laurel Buckwalter. Laurel has a Bachelor of Music in piano, a Master of Science in Education and Carillonneur certification with the Guild of Carillonneurs in North America. She and Peter frequently play organ-piano duets for the prelude and at other times in worship. Laurel was a technical specialist in music at Alfred University but is now retired.
Maintenance
Maureen Wilsey is responsible for cleaning the Church and the Church Center, which means not only cleaning the buildings following the typical Sunday use but also maintaining them during the week for the groups that use the Church Center. Maureen has been on staff since August 2022.