our team

Nic graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in applied mathematics, earned an M. Div. from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary and is currently working towards a Doctor of Ministry at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He joined the team at First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale on June 1, 2008 and for the next 10 years oversaw and grew the Youth and College Ministry by ensuring that participants nurture their faith in Jesus Christ. In May of 2018 Nic answered the call to serve our church as Associate Pastor for Spiritual Formation and served in that role through 2022. In August of 2023 he began serving in the role of Pastor & Head of Staff and is excited to continue serving this community where God has called him and his family. He and his wife Amy met at FPC Fort Lauderdale when they were in high school and have been married since 2012. They are parents to Hannah, Luke, James and Daniel and are grateful to be a part of the First Pres family.

Jonny is a pianist, singer, and songwriter from South Florida. He’s worked across contemporary Christian, Gospel, Latin Christian, and hip-hop music, recording and touring with a range of artists along the way.
As a worship leader, he cares deeply about justice and diversity, and how music and liturgy can help create more welcoming, inclusive spaces in the church. When he’s not playing piano or digging into Latin American podcasts, he’s usually doing puzzles and trying (with mixed results) to be a better plant dad.

In recent years, Sophia has sung with our Cathedral Choir and directed the Kirk Singer Musical, endearing herself to many in our congregation. She brings with her over 29 years of experience in music education and performance, holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Florida State University, and is a National Board Certified Teacher. She has led award-winning choirs at Dillard Center for the Performing Arts and now begins her next chapter at J.P. Taravella High School. Sophia’s faith, skill, and creativity will bless our traditional worship services and choral ministry.

Ed serves on the facilities team at First Pres, where his care and attention help keep our campus welcoming, safe, and well-maintained, supporting the church’s mission by creating spaces where worship, fellowship, and service can flourish.
Born in Tampico, Mexico, Ed moved to South Florida in 1993. Before joining First Pres in 2025, he spent 20 years working in hospice care, where his compassion and dedication to serving others were hallmarks of his work. Ed’s love for people, animals, and plants is reflected in the thoughtful way he cares for both the church grounds and all who gather here. 

With over 36 years in the entertainment industry, Teo first began working with First Pres in 1999 and joined the staff full-time in 2025. His technical leadership helps bring our mission to life, enhancing worship, connection, and outreach through excellence behind the scenes.
Outside of church, he enjoys snorkeling, hiking, and traveling.

Organist
info@firstpres.cc  |  954-462-6200

In addition to her work at First Pres, where she has faithfully served for over 30 years, Susan serves as Staff Accompanist for Broward College, Principal Accompanist for the Master Chorale of South Florida, and is a dedicated piano instructor at the Diane Bish Center for Music and the Arts. Her passion for collaborative music-making and teaching strengthens the church’s worship life and fosters musical growth in the wider community.
Outside of music, Susan enjoys reading, traveling, shopping, and crocheting.

Chandler has been part of the First Presbyterian Church of Fort Lauderdale as our director since  the 2018/2019 school year. She is passionate about supporting our students to be servant leaders and active followers of Jesus Christ. She is currently pursuing a Master in Divinity at Duke University.  
Chandler's favorite scripture is 1 Corinthians 13:2.

Born in Fort Lauderdale, Karyn has been a member of First Pres since 1986. She was married here to her high-school sweetheart Steve and their 3 children attended Happyland and were involved in the youth and music ministries. Prior to working for First Pres, Karyn served on Worship and Music and the College team and currently serves on Adult Education. She is passionate about connecting members and guests to engage in their next step at First Pres to Worship, Learn, Give and Serve.
Karyn’s favorite scripture is Philippians 4:6-7

Debbie was born and raised in Texas, Debbie earned her B.A. in Theater Management from St. Edward’s University and brings a diverse background in live entertainment, marketing, and event production. She first attended First Pres on Christmas Eve in 2024 and quickly became involved, even spending her first week of retirement volunteering at Vacation Bible School.
She she helps create a welcoming and engaging environment for children and families. Her role supports the church’s mission by nurturing spaces where kids can grow in faith and experience Christ-centered connection.
Debbie loves traveling, camping, hiking, and kayaking, and lives by the motto: Do what you love, love what you do.

Originally from South Florida, Samantha spent several years in the classroom before becoming Principal at Happyland Day School. Her passion for early childhood education began in high school and led her to focus her undergraduate studies on early childhood and exceptional student education. She later earned her Master’s in Elementary Education.
Samantha is dedicated to creating a warm, supportive environment where children can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. She believes the early years are a special time to spark curiosity, build confidence, and lay the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.
Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with family, going to the gym, and trying new recipes.
Her favorite quote is: “Creativity is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift to God.” – Bob Moawad

Karen joined the First Pres staff in August 2018. Her extensive career includes stints in healthcare, construction, non-profits, and the performing arts where she amassed experience in administration, human resources and finance. She has an MBA and a certificate in Biblical Studies.
A long-time resident of Broward County, Karen migrated from Little Rhody in childhood and lived for several years in Alabama. She is an avid college football fan (Roll Tide) and enjoys gardening in her spare time. She frequently visits her sons and spends hours on the phone with them each week.
Karen subscribes to the Saban definition of discipline, the ability to consistently do what is required—even when you don't feel like it—to achieve a goal. Some of her favorite scriptures are in Psalm 91: He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty… He shall cover you with His feathers and under His wings you shall take refuge.

Born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Emily joined the team at First Presbyterian Church in August 2017. Having grown up at First Pres and with two daughters who attended Happyland, this ministry has been a meaningful part of her life for many years.
As Vice Principal of Happyland Day School, Emily plays a key role in creating a nurturing, Christ-centered environment where young children and their families can experience connection, growth, and care. Through her leadership, she helps lay a strong foundation of faith and learning, supporting the church’s mission to inspire people of all ages to explore faith and grow in community.
Emily enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with family. Her favorite scripture is Matthew 6:21.

Mona has a steadfast goal: To have each church member plugged into a small group and ministry that feeds their spiritual growth. A Florida native, Mona joined the team at First Presbyterian Church in April 2012.
Mona's favorite scripture is Proverbs 3:5-6.

Facilities Manager
mikes@firstpres.cc  |  954-598-9338
As Facility Manager, Mike is tasked with managing the maintenance and operations of our beautiful buildings and grounds.  Mike is working on getting familiar with the workings of our campus. Born in Florence Township, New Jersey, he was raised in the Catholic faith.  On moving to Ft. Lauderdale seven years ago, someone invited Mike to visit First Pres and he found it a place that was warm and accepting. He has been a member since 2018.  
Mike's favorite scripture is Matthew 4:19.

Michelle joined the FPC team in August of 2019 as Executive Assistant to the Pastors.   She brings forth extensive experience as EA to CEO’s in various industries such as Florida Panther Holdings, Inc., Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County and was also the Riding Academy Manager at Harley Davidson.  Michelle is originally from Michigan and enjoys spending time at her cabin in the Upper Peninsula.   She has a passion for interior design.
Michelle's  favorite scripture is 1 Peter 5:7.

A Florida native, Lillie has been working at First Presbyterian Church since 2012. In her free time she enjoys fishing and Bible study.
Lillie's favorite scripture is Psalm 121.

Carey and his family live, work, and play in Jacksonville, Florida. He enjoys surfing, is an avid baseball fan, enjoys time with family and friends, and has a unique gift for listening. He has served various businesses, nonprofits, and churches in the areas of team development, strategic planning, and profitability consulting. He combines his experience in business and church ministry with his education (MTS and MBA) to help organizations increase, multiply and thrive.

Coordinator of Church and Worship Ministries
dawnt@firstpres.cc  |  954-598-9300

A native of Deerfield Beach, Dawn brings over 26 years of administrative experience. She has served for six years as an office manager at a church before joining First Pres, blending strong organizational skills with a heart for ministry.
Dawn’s work behind the scenes, coordinating programs, supporting teams, and ensuring details are handled well, helps create environments where people can connect, grow, and experience God’s love. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, seeking new adventures, and spending time with family and friends.

Alex is a longtime member of the First Pres staff, serving as Custodian since November 2004. A Fort Lauderdale native, Alex helps keep our church clean, organized, and comfortable, ensuring that our facilities reflect the hospitality and care at the heart of our mission so people can worship, gather, and serve in welcoming spaces.
Born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Alex is a proud father of two daughters and a son. When he isn’t caring for the church, he enjoys spending time outdoors and going fishing.

With a passion for seeing children and families grow in their faith, Cindy started her work with the Children’s Ministry at First Presbyterian Church in August 2006. In her free time she enjoys running, crafts and spending time with her family.
Cindy's favorite scripture is Philippians 4:13.

Originally from St. Joseph, Michigan, Ellen has been a member of First Pres since moving to Florida in 2002. Ellen and her husband, Chuck have been active members and raised their three children in the programs here at First Pres. Ellen enjoys travel, working out and cooking with her family.
Ellen’s favorite scripture is Philippians 4:6.