UMC SUMMIT - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Children and Youth Minister
When it comes to children and youth ministry, I am no stranger. After graduating from high
Geraldo is a bilingual "jack of all trades" who is self-sufficient, utilizing innovation to solve problems. Geraldo possesses exceptional project management skills with 15 + years experience managing a diverse team of operations. He is extremely goal oriented and consistently exceeds expectations. Geraldo's previous employment includes Long Island University, Columbia University, Radio City Music Hall, and my most recently managing the campus at Liquid Church.
Job Titles:
- Prussak, Director of Music
Ms. Joanne Teubner-Prussak joined the staff of UMC Summit as the music director in 1999. Ms. Prussak brings a wealth of talent, education, and experience to the position in music and choral direction. She attended Mannes College of Music and has studied at Julliard School of Music focusing on piano, organ, and choral direction. Ms. Prussak shares her gifts by directing all our choral groups and determining how music can enhance our worship experience and our Christian lives.
Joey Bustillos has recently joined the staff of UMC Summit March 2023. Mr. Bustillos brings so much to the team with his friendliness and expertise of different fields throughout his career. He's been a strong piece in keeping the church going. He attended high school locally here and graduated from Summit High School in 2012. Pursuing his education he graduated from Kean University in 2017 with a Bachelor's in Sociology and Minors in Health and Psychology. He has a background working in various fields such as business, marketing and communications. During his spare time, you can find Joey outdoors going on adventures and exploring nature. He also enjoys long walks with his dog, Bon Bon, video games and anime. Mr. Bustillos continues to grow his relationship with God everyday and is very thankful, grateful and blessed for the wonderful opportunity to join the incredible church staff.
Rev. Laura Steele serves as the senior pastor for UMC Summit. Pastor Laura graduated from Centenary University in 2005 with a B.A. in Theater. Before answering the call to lifelong ministry, Pastor Laura worked in the theater world for most of her young-adult life. After many years of volunteering in youth ministry programs within the United Methodist Church, she began working as the Director of Youth and Family Ministries for Del Ray UMC in Alexandria, VA. While in that role, Pastor Laura discerned the call to full-time service in moving God's mission forward in the world. She graduated with her Masters in Divinity from Drew Theological School and has served as Associate Pastor at Bridgewater UMC, and Senior Pastor at East Millstone UMC, Mt. Zion UMC and Hopewell UMC respectfully. Pastor Laura has a passion for children, youth, and family ministries; as well as a passion for forming disciples of Christ for the transformation of the world. Pastor Laura and has three children, Juliet, Lucas and Harper (deceased). Their family also includes a new puppy, Jingerbread, two well-fed cats, Ruffino and Gizmo, and a hermit crab named Dragonfly.