top of page

Meet our team
STAFF &
LEADERSHIP
Staff
_edited.webp)

Pastor/Head of Staff
Laura Crihfield
Pastor Laura’s journey with Yorkminster began in February 2022 when she was invited to preach for a Sunday, which led to more invitations, and eventually stepping into a long-term pulpit supply role. When the church needed a permanent pastor, it became clear that God was calling Laura to fill that role. She often reflects on how God has guided her into leadership in unexpected ways.
Laura brings 40 years of ministry experience, including nearly 30 years as a Presbyterian Pastor. She grew up in Southern California, attended Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington, and earned her Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. Laura has served churches in Illinois and Maryland in various roles, including family ministry, pastoral care, community outreach, and senior leadership.
She lives with her husband, Jud, their two children, Josh and Ana, her mother, Karen, and their dog, Lexi. Laura enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, thrifting, and finding joy in knowing nothing can separate us from God's love.
mailto:laura@yorkminsterpc.org
_edited.webp)

Director of Worship
Paula McDonald
Paula serves as Yorkminster’s Director of Worship, overseeing worship events and the church’s music ministry. She is passionate about growing in faith and glorifying God through music. Originally from South Korea, she holds a BA and MM in music education, as well as a second MA in music in the U.S.
Paula has taught in colleges and directed music programs in churches across South Korea, Germany, and the U.S. She currently teaches at Virginia Peninsula Community College and is a member of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra Chorus. In her free time, she enjoys working out, hiking, and traveling.
mailto:paula@yorkminsterpc.org
_edited.webp)

Director of Family Ministry
Dowler Wheat
Dowler joined Yorkminster in June 2023 to oversee programming for infants through college students, following 17 years in education. She holds a BFA from East Carolina University and has taught Spanish in both North Carolina and Virginia, serving in various leadership roles such as Department Chair and Key Club Advisor. She has also served on the boards of the Foreign Language Association of Virginia and The Virginia Children’s Choir.
Dowler has a deep passion for working with children and teens, leading Sunday school, Bible studies, and youth outreach programs. A devoted Celine Dion fan, she enjoys singing and lives in Seaford with her husband Neal and their corgi, Dudley.
mailto:dowler@yorkminsterpc.org
_edited.webp)

Director of Operations
Dianne Schoonover
Dianne brings a wealth of experience to her role as Director of Operations, having served as a Deacon, Elder, and Clerk of Session. With a degree in Administration, she helped establish this role at Yorkminster, overseeing personnel, finance, and property matters.
Dianne feels blessed to serve God and witness Yorkminster’s growth. She resides in York County and loves being part of this community.
mailto:dianne@yorkminsterpc.org
_edited.webp)

Office Manager
Tammy Unnoppet
Tammy has been with Yorkminster since June 2015, serving as the church's Office Manager. She is the first point of contact for members, visitors, and newcomers, ensuring smooth communication within the church.
Tammy is a vital part of the Yorkminster community and believes it is a true blessing to serve such a loving congregation.
mailto:tammy@yorkminsterpc.org
_edited.webp)

Facilities Coordinator & Custodian
Anita Morton
Anita ensures that Yorkminster’s facilities are always clean, organized, and ready for all church events and community programs. She plays a key role in maintaining the church and connecting the surrounding community with its resources.
Anita is the go-to person for all facility-related needs, keeping everything running smoothly from top to bottom.
mailto:anita@yorkminsterpc.org
_edited.webp)

Preschool Director
Barbara Wood
Barbara has attended Yorkminster since childhood and now serves as the Preschool Director. With a doctorate in education from William & Mary and experience as both a teacher and principal, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the preschool.
Barbara works alongside her daughter Lindsey, a fellow teacher, and enjoys spending time with her family, including her husband Grady and their two daughters. She loves watching her grandchildren, Parker and Colette, play sports.
_edited.webp)

Accountant
Mike Griffin
Micheal Griffin joined the staff in 2024. He earned his MBA at John Carroll University followed by an accounting BBA and a CPA certification following a happy childhood shared with four siblings in Rochester, NY. Michael has proud family ties to the U.S. Air Force and UVA (go Cavaliers). He is the proud husband of Patricia, a Registered Dietitian, for nearly 60 years and has three beautiful sons.
mailto:accountant@yorkminsterpc.org
_edited.jpg)

Technology & AV
Wynn Yang
Wynn Yang is an audio engineer located in Newport News, VA. Wynn runs First Wave Recording Studios, mans the reference desk at Tabb Library, and controls the soundboard at Yorkminster Presbyterian Church. In his free time, he loves riding bikes and fixing things.
mailto:wynn@yorkminsterpc.org
Deacons
_edited.webp)

Becky Davis
_edited.webp)

Martha Graham
_edited.webp)

Bill Jameson
_edited.webp)

Bill Kellem
_edited.webp)

Lynn Kelly
_edited.webp)

Andy Lucas
_edited.webp)

Linda Neff
_edited.webp)

Judith Ord
_edited.webp)

Andra Pearce
_edited.webp)

Barbara Pitts
_edited.webp)

Karen Rissling
_edited.webp)

Hannah Roberts
_edited.webp)

Holly Rutledge
_edited.webp)

Fred Simpkins
_edited.webp)

Joan Thomas
Elders
_edited.webp)

Judi Campbell
_edited.webp)

Dennis Dicus
_edited.webp)

David Gyure
_edited.webp)

Lu Harding
_edited.webp)

Marty Hill
_edited.webp)

Jody Kelly
_edited.webp)

Nan Marks
_edited.webp)

David Petko
_edited.webp)

Eric Rissling
_edited.webp)

Larry Shriver
_edited.webp)

Judy Wiseman
bottom of page