A lifelong UU, Rev. Alison grew up in a large congregation and has served internships, summer ministries, and assistant ministries in large churches in NYC and Tulsa. She also has deep experience working in RE and with youth and young adults. She works well and … read more.

Rev. Thomas Disrud was called to serve as Associate Minister of Portland’s First Unitarian Church in 1995. His responsibilities include serving on the Executive Team, which oversees the church’s operations. He is also the “pastor” of the church, tending to pastoral care in the congregation. … read more.

Danielle Garrett (she/her) is the ministerial intern for the 2023-2024 church year and a candidate for the Unitarian Universalist ministry. Danielle feels called to ground her work for justice in the rich fabric of congregational life and believes in a God of liberation and the … read more.

DeReau joined First Unitarian Church of Portland in July of 2016 as Acting Music Director. He was named our permanent Director of Music in March of 2017. He is also Artistic Director for Portland’s queer and allied youth choir, Bridging Voices, and President for the … read more.

John first came to sing at First Unitarian Portland as a tenor section leader in 1998 and has been involved ever since. He is the founding director of the UU Women’s Choir, going strong since 2011. John is also the new director of the West … read more.

Joe has been organist of First Unitarian Church of Portland since August 1996. He holds the degrees of Bachelor of Music in Organ and Master of Liturgical Music from the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. While in Washington he served on the music … read more.

Rev. Leah Ongiri (she/her) came on staff in 2023 but her relationship with First Church began when she started attending as a toddler with her family. Her work centers on helping integrate learning opportunities for children, youth, and adults, so that everyone gets to experience … read more.

Dana joined staff as the Social Justice Director in the Summer of 2017.  She’s attended First Unitarian Church since 2003 and was drawn to our faith community because of its commitment to social and racial justice.

Over the last couple of years, Dana has led workshops … read more.

(she/siya)

Jennifer (Jen) Thomas: Native Oregonian with a Heart for Unitarian Universalism As a true native Oregonian at heart, I’ve had the privilege of living in various corners of the United States and the world. Still, my journey always led me back to the beautiful Pacific … read more.

Joey’s (he/him/his) journey with First Unitarian began in 2016 as a committed member of the Sexton team. His dedication led to a natural transition in 2021 when he stepped into the role of Programs Assistant for the Music Department. During a critical period, he played … read more.