Mark D. Abernathy has served with N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM) since 1994.

He began working with the Baptist state convention as a consultant for children/Royal Ambassadors and as director of Camp Caraway for Boys. Mark now serves as consultant for adult/men’s ministries and partnership missions. His previous experience includes serving as a chaplain, as director of the Kentucky State RA Camp and as a journeyman missionary for the Foreign Mission Board (now the International Mission Board). He has participated in or led mission trips to Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Puerto Rico, India, Kenya, Lesotho and Mozambique.

Mark earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from Appalachian State University and his Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Mark and his wife, Kellie, have two children. He enjoys backpacking, photography and sports.

Nikki serves as Grant Accounting Coordinator for the Operations group. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since September 2023.

Nikki graduated from Michigan State University in 2008 and moved to North Carolina in 2010. She attended Wake Technical Community College in 2020 and has completed the CPA exam.

Nikki and her husband, John, attend Hope Community Church at the Apex campus with their two children.

Chad serves as the Managing Editor with the Biblical Recorder.

Chad helps write and share news and information about the convention’s ministry and missions efforts. He also serves as the convention’s primary contact for the news media.

Prior to joining the Baptist state convention in November 2014, Chad served in a variety of communications roles in business, higher education, online news, college athletics and daily newspapers.

Chad received his bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a master of arts in ministry leadership from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest.

Chad and his wife, Koren, have one daughter.

Andrew Barclift serves as the Human Resources Manager for N.C. Baptists. He joined the staff in October 2025. Andrew previously served in a variety of associate pastor roles at churches throughout North Carolina. Most recently, he was associate pastor at First Baptist Church of Rocky Mount. Before that, he served at Good Hope Baptist Church in Cary for more than 12 years. He is a graduate of Judson College and Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. Andrew and his wife, Jasmine, are blessed with two beautiful daughters.

Cindy Bartholomew has enjoyed a long career with the Baptist state convention and currently serves as Special Projects for Operations Group.

She first joined the convention in 2012 following nearly two decades with Alcatel Lucent in Raleigh. Cindy has also been actively involved in leadership with Bible Study Fellowship for many years.

Originally from Tennessee, Cindy and her husband, Don, have lived in Cary since 1983. They are members of First Baptist Church of Cary. They have two children, six grandchildren and two dogs.

Jay Baugham began his time with Baptists on Mission in 2013 with his wife, Ashley, at the Red Springs Mission Camp. In January 2019, they moved to Lumberton as the coordinators of the Lumberton Rebuild Center. Jay became the Missions Mobilization Consultant in 2025.

He has been on and led many missions trips and has served in many roles at his church. His passion is serving God, bringing people hope and equipping others to do the same.

Jay is married to his high school sweetheart, Ashley, and they have three children: Noah, Natalie and James.

Tom Beam has served with North Carolina Baptists On Mission (NCBM) since 1999. His roles have included director of Camp Caraway for Boys, consultant for children/Royal Ambassadors, and consultant for student missions mobilization, which included running the Deep Impact Youth Missions program. Tom currently serves as the disaster relief coordinator as well as the Cuba partnership coordinator.

Prior to joining NCBM, Tom served as a youth minister in Boone, Hickory, Boiling Springs and Raleigh, North Carolina.

Tom earned his bachelor’s degree in recreation program management from Appalachian State University, and his master of divinity in Christian education from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.

Tom and his wife, Faithe, reside in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina. They have one son.

Reagan Bottoms serves as a ministry assistant with the ministry assistant group since September 2024. She previously served with the Baptist state convention as a summer staff member with BeDoTell.

Reagan grew up in Burnsville, North Carolina and is a graduate of Appalachian State with a degree in Elementary Education. In her free time, Reagan enjoys spending time with others, being outside, and serving her community. She is passionate for the next generation hearing the gospel and building relationships with others.

K Brown serves as the director of photography for N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM).

K has worked in the creative area of the Baptist state convention since 1986, producing photographic, video and audio resources for use by the convention staff and Baptist churches throughout the state. He earned his bachelor’s degree in communication arts from Asbury University.

He and his wife, Dana, are members of The Summit Church in Durham.

Seth was named director of the Convention Relations Group in October 2021.

Seth is a graduate of William Carey University and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He previously served as editor of North Carolina’s Biblical Recorder.

Seth lives in Wake Forest with his wife, Lauren, and three wonderful kids. They are members of Woodland Baptist Church in Wake Forest. Seth enjoys reading, writing and spending lots of time outdoors.

Austin Brown serves the Ministry Strategies group as the executive assistant. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since April 2010.

A native of Cary, North Carolina, Austin graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She is a member of Apex Baptist Church and enjoys serving on the first impressions team.

Richard Brunson has served as executive director-treasurer of N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM) since 1992.

Prior to his current role, Richard worked as an associate on the NCBM staff, serving as director of disaster relief, Camp Caraway and Christian High Adventure. He is a graduate of Gardner-Webb College and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Richard is married to Lesley, and they have three grown children.

John Butler was named director of the Operations group in October 2021 after serving as the executive leader for what was formerly known as Business Services. John oversees the day-to-day operations of the state convention and its various facilities, including camps and conference centers.

Before coming to the Baptist state convention, John served as senior pastor of three North Carolina Baptist churches for 17 years, most recently at First Baptist Church of Matthews. As a pastor, he was active in North Carolina Baptist life both at the associational and state levels, including serving as the state convention’s board of directors president for two years. Prior to his calling to vocational ministry, John was an executive in the mortgage banking and financial planning fields.

John earned his bachelor’s degree from Davidson College and master of divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

He and his wife, Kristi, are active members of Lee Park Baptist Church in Monroe. They have four daughters who have blessed them with many grandchildren.

Patti Cardwell serves as a ministry assistant for the Mission Catalysts group. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since April 2008.

Patti graduated from the University of Louisville with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in finance.

She and her husband, Kevin, are members of First Baptist Church in Cary, North Carolina, and participate with the Gideons Auxiliary/Gideons International.

Chelsie began serving with N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM) in February 2020.

She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a bachelor’s degree in middle grades education, concentrating in mathematics and science. Chelsie taught sixth grade in Granville County for four years.

Chelsie and her husband live in Creedmoor, North Carolina, and attend Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Creedmoor. They enjoy being outside, and they love to kayak, camp and fish.

Kathryn Carson was named director of the new Marketing and Communications group in October 2021 after leading the work of what was formerly known as the Communication Team. Overall, she has served at the Baptist state convention since 2005.

Kathryn coordinates with staff to create communication strategies that incorporate graphic designs for print, web, video, editorial and other various media. She works closely with graphic designers, writers, web developers and videographers. Kathryn holds a master’s degree in strategic communication from Liberty University.

Dennis Conner serves as a regional mission catalyst with the Baptist state convention.

Prior to joining the state convention in January 2020, Dennis served as a pastor, church planter and church planting catalyst.

In his current role, Dennis and his wife, Cindy, have returned to the area where he first began serving in vocational ministry. Dennis has also served as a North American missionary in Phoenix and Chicago.

His educational journey includes an associate degree in liberal arts from Davidson County Community College, a bachelor’s degree in religion from Chowan University and a master of divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest. He is currently pursuing a doctor of education degree at Southeastern, researching and writing about organizational leadership in the local church.

Dennis is passionate about history, current events, NASCAR, the Chicago Bears and the Chicago White Sox. He also enjoys reading biographies and business books and articles. He writes regularly, loves preaching and reinvests in the growth and maturity of others.

Dennis and Cindy like to explore new places together. Frequently, they are accompanied by their Australian shepherd, Bikkie.

David Cook serves as the video manager with the Marketing and Communications group. After receiving his bachelor’s degree from Cedarville University, David served as a director for small companies, large agencies and ministries. His work has allowed him to travel throughout the United States and internationally, directing an eclectic array of productions.

He has worked with clients ranging from churches and local companies to the National Football League and the Olympic International Committee.

Most recently, David worked as the creative/film director for a film studio in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, leading a team of video professionals to create a variety of promotional advertisements, marketing videos and creative motivational/inspirational ventures. He has won multiple ADDY awards for his work in commercial advertising and continually seeks to challenge himself to make each project better than the last.

David is truly thrilled to see how God will use his passion to create within the ministries of the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina.

Penny L. Cozadd serves the Operations group as the operations coordinator. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since 2005.

Penny has been married to Joseph for more than 30 years. She loves serving the Lord and her favorite Bible verse is Psalm 119:105.

Amanda serves as a graphic designer with the Marketing and Communications group. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since August 2023.

Before coming to the state convention, Amanda worked as a freelance artist and graphic designer. She loves working with people and helping them discover visual representations of their ideas.

Prior to her freelance work, Amanda served overseas as a Journeyman in Asia, doing student ministry and graphic design. When she returned, Amanda went to seminary and also worked as a children’s ministry coordinator and a graphic designer at her church.

Amanda graduated from the Art Institute with a bachelor’s degree in media art and animation in 2009.

Amanda is married and has a fantastic stepson.

Drew Dabbs serves the Ministry Strategies group as the discipleship ministry strategist. He has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since May 2024.

Drew is a native of Mississippi, where he served on a local church staff in college ministry for thirteen years. He and his wife, Kristie, have three kids: Isaac, Nathan and Rosie.

Before joining the N.C. Baptist staff as a Great Commission Catalyst, Jonathan served as one of the pastors of Pillar Church in Jacksonville, N.C., for nine years. Over the last 20 years, he has been involved in multiple church plants as a team member, church planting partner and a church planter. Most of this time was spent planting in a military context.  

Jonathan is currently working on achieving his master’s degree from Liberty University. He and his wife, Jennifer, have been married since 1995. They have five children and two grandchildren. In his free time, Jonathan enjoys traveling with his family to new places. He also enjoys playing tennis and golf.

Mike Dodson has over 30 years of ministry experience in various roles, including director of leadership development, faculty at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, missionary with the North American Mission Board, and numerous local church roles. He and his wife Kelly have been married for more than 30 years and are blessed with three sons and some wonderful daughters-in-law. They love living and serving in North Carolina, where God sent them in 2009.

Julie joined the Accounting Team in July 2021 after previously serving with N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM) since July 2018.

Previously, Julie worked for 18 years in the medical imaging field as a radiologic technologist.

Julie and her husband, Jamie, attend Clearview Baptist Church in Henderson.

Michael spent 18 years leading the Legal Provider Relations team at a work-life benefits company before joining our team. Originally from Connecticut, he and his wife, Katherine, made their way to Clayton, N.C., in 2006. They now attend The Summit Church.

They have two grown kids, Madelyn and Zachary. You can often find Michael watching soccer (Chelsea), college football (Georgia Bulldogs) and college basketball (UCONN Huskies).

Blair Feller serves as executive assistant for the Mission Catalysts group. Blair is originally from Birmingham, Ala., and moved to North Carolina in 2016 to attend Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. She graduated with a master’s degree in Intercultural Studies in 2019. She is a member of Imago Dei Church in Raleigh, where she also serves to coordinate missions. Blair enjoys running, chocolate, reading, her cats and time with her nephew.

Tracey began serving with N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM) in September 2018. Prior to joining the staff, she volunteered with NCBM for several years.

Tracey has a degree in electrical engineering from N.C. Agricultural and Technical State University and a master’s in education from the University of North Carolina.

Tracey lives in Greensboro with her husband, Sherman. They have two adult children and are members of Good News Baptist Church.

Ralph Garay serves as the international church planting strategist for the Ministry Strategies group. He has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since September 2006.

Ralph is originally from the Philippines and immigrated with his wife, Anna Lyn, to the United States in June 1995.

Ralph’s mission in life is to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ every day, to grow in his capacity to love his wife and his two sons, and to lead and develop his family in serving God. He desires to bring people to Jesus Christ, connect them in His family, disciple them to Christ-like maturity, and equip them for their ministry in the church and in their life mission in order to honor God.

Ralph lives to be an encouragement to other pastors and church leaders through coaching, training and resourcing in order to help them fulfill their God-given purposes. He wants to help church planters plant new churches that will advance the gospel to reach every nation in our generation.

Ralph received his bachelor’s degree in theology at Philippine Baptist Theological Seminary in Baquio City, Philippines, in 1987. He then pastored a Filipino-American church in San Diego for 11 years.

Caleb was born and raised in North Carolina and is a second-generation N.C. Baptist pastor. He has been married to his wife, Kylie, since 2018, and they are the proud parents of a rambunctious little girl named Lena. They are also licensed foster parents through Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina and are currently fostering an energetic little boy.

Caleb has served as a bivocational pastor for more than 10 years and as lead pastor of Salem Community Baptist Church in Whitakers for over five. He loves preaching, pastoring, playing guitar, drinking coffee and watching old sitcoms and sports. He most recently served as the interim associational mission strategist of Tar River Baptist Association.

John Gordy serves as a regional mission catalyst with the Baptist state convention.

John previously served with the state convention from 2016-2019 as a strategy coordinator. John and his wife, Pat, have served with the International Mission Board for 38 years, in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. His most recent assignment was mission globalizer for the southern cluster of the Sub-Saharan Africa Affinity in Johannesburg, South Africa.

John earned a bachelor’s degree from Samford University, a master of divinity from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, a doctor of ministry from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctorate from Northwest University in Potchefstroom, South Africa. Pat is a licensed RN and has a master’s degree in biblical counseling.

John and Pat have three children and 10 grandchildren living in Texas, South Carolina and Kenya.

Stephen Halley graduated from the University of North Carolina in 2025 with a degree in English and Religious Studies. He got married in September 2025 and is currently pursuing law school.

Tina Holder serves as a ministry assistant with N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM). She joined the staff in July 2023. Prior to this position, Tina worked with Black Box Networks in Apex as a resource coordinator. Prior to working with Black Box, she served in roles ranging from marketing to grants.

Tina is a North Carolina native from Durham. She and her husband, Emmett, have one son, his wife and one grandchild.

Alex Hugo serves as a college ministry strategist with the Ministry Strategies group. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since November 2016.

Alex grew up in Burlington, North Carolina, and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2015 with a degree in studio art. Afterward, she spent a year doing ministry in South Asia.

Alex and her husband, Chris, live in Raleigh, where they attend The Summit Church. In her free time, Alex enjoys relaxing in coffee shops and traveling.

Jay Humphrey serves as facilities manager for the Operations group.

At a young age, Jay began working on his parents’ pig farm in Burgaw. After graduating from North Carolina State University, he returned home to manage the family business for a number of years and eventually started his own pig farm.

Jay felt called to pursue theological education in 2004 and graduated from the College at Southeastern three years later with a bachelor’s degree in biblical studies. His past ministry experience includes serving as youth director for Burgaw Baptist Church and youth pastor for Mission Baptist Church.

Prior to working for the Baptist state convention, Jay worked eight years for Lowe’s Home Improvement. Then in 2014, he helped launch Back Alley Coffee Roasters in Wake Forest, where he participated in facility renovation for the startup, in addition to taking on the roles of coffee production manager and sales representative.

Jay currently serves as a deacon and leads a discipleship group at Imago Dei Church in Raleigh, where he and his wife, Kim, are members. They have two children and seven grandchildren.

Teresa Jones serves with N.C. Baptists on Mission (BOM) as the Financial Administrator.

Teresa participates in, leads and coordinates logistics for North Carolina teams working in Central and Eastern Europe with Hungarian-speaking Roma (gypsies). In addition, she plans and develops curriculum for the English Bible Camps hosted by N.C. Baptist teams in the Hungarian public schools operated by Hungarian Baptist Aid. Teresa has the opportunity to work with her daughter, Alicia, who lives in Hungary and serves as a missionary and BOM on-site coordinator.

Teresa has a bachelor’s degree from Mars Hill University. Prior to working for BOM, Teresa served in the Baptist state convention’s Office of Administration as the board secretary.

Teresa and her husband, Archie, enjoy hosting and ministering to international students from North Carolina State University. They host a weekly dinner and Bible study in their home for international students interested in learning more about God and His Word.

Kendra Joyner has worked in children’s ministry for over 20 years in North Carolina and South Carolina Baptist churches. She holds a Master of Divinity Degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary with an emphasis in Church Leadership and a concentration in Children and Family Ministry. Kendra also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of South Carolina.

Her heart is for the church to come alongside families as they disciple their children to live gospel driven lives. She loves teaching the Word of God to children, challenging them to understand Biblical truths no matter what age. She enjoys working with all types of people from all over the world. 

During her free time she loves to spend time spoiling her nieces and nephews. She loves to travel with her close friends to the mountains or across the world. Her most favorite pastime is whatever leads to laughter. Kendra looks forward to working with her new team in helping the church body in North Carolina reach the next generation for Christ.

Susanne joined the Baptist on Mission staff in November 2024 as a Financial Assistant.

Susanne graduated from Wake Technical College with an Associates Degree. She worked as a safety operations specialist for 37 years at both GlaxoSmithKline and IQVIA in pharmacovigilance/safety operations.

Susanne and her husband live in Apex, NC, and attend Fairview Baptist Church. They have two adult kids and enjoy camping at the beach or the mountains in their RV and spending time with family and friends.

Myoung Cheon Ko has served in pastoral ministry for nearly two decades, including as lead pastor of The Connect Church in Cary, N.C. and as education pastor at Fayetteville Korean Baptist Church and RTP Global Mission Church in Durham.

Ko holds a bachelor’s degree in Law and Business from Handong Global University (South Korea), a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, a master’s degree in religious education from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary and a Master of Theology from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, specializing in Leadership and Family Ministry.

He has supported church planters for six years through coaching and facilitation with SendNC. He loves coffee and being teachable, and lives by his lifetime Bible verse: Matthew 6:33 — “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.”

He is originally from South Korea. He is married to Grace Ko and they have three sons.

Shelby Kristoff serves as the media manager for the Marketing and Communications group. She graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Strategic Communication and previously worked in the private sector before joining the N.C. Baptist team.

She lives in Wake Forest and is a member of The Summit Church. Shelby enjoys trying new coffee shops and spending time with friends.

Kenny Lamm serves as the worship ministries strategist with the Ministry Strategies group.

Previously, he served 23 years as worship pastor of Front Street Baptist Church in Statesville, North Carolina. Under his leadership, the church experienced worship renewal and became a model for many churches seeking to transform and improve their worship services.

Kenny is a frequent worship clinician and guest worship leader. His heart for the nations has also taken him to international fields of service. He has led worship conferences and outreach events with North Carolina Baptist worship teams throughout Malaysia, Singapore and two other Asian countries. Kenny also spent a summer in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, working with churches in worship renewal. Resources developed for these events continue to be used extensively in equipping worship leaders in churches around the world and are currently published in English and Chinese.

Kenny received his bachelor’s degree in music from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also earned a master’s degree in church music from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, where he was a Rice-Judson Scholar and completed doctoral-level classes in worship to receive the advanced graduate certificate in worship studies from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in Chicago, Illinois.

Kenny and his wife, Sandy, have two grown children. The family lives in Sanford, North Carolina.

Paul Langston is the missions mobilization consultant with N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM).

Prior to his current position, Paul served as the associational mission strategist for the Eastern Baptist Association, pastor of three churches in the Carolinas and as a missionary with the International Mission Board in Sardinia, Italy.

Paul has a degree in chemical engineering from Clemson University, a master of divinity with languages from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctor of ministry from Andersonville Theological Seminary.

Paul has led mission teams to New Mexico, Montana, Idaho, New York, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Honduras, El Salvador, Haiti and the Dominican Republic. He has also been involved in disaster relief through NCBM and when he was a pastor in South Carolina.

Paul’s passion is to help churches and associations involve every member in using their God-given gifts in missions. He loves seeing the joy that comes when a person surrenders their gifts, talents and time to God. One of his greatest joys is seeing the renewal and revitalization that come in an individual’s life and in the life of a church when people use their gifts to make an eternal impact through missions involvement. He believes that even the simplest gift, when placed in the Master’s hands, can produce exponential results, and that missions involvement is critical to the life of a church.

Antoine Lassiter is a dedicated disciple maker, church planter, and Church Planting Strategist for SendNC. 

A native North Carolinian, Antoine has over 20 years of ministry experience and is passionate about coaching and training church planters across the state. His work with SendNC includes finding, assessing, and developing planters, sending churches, leaders, and church planting coaches. Antoine also strategizes with local churches to create a reproducing culture that leads to church planting, apprentices, residents, residencies, and planting coalitions. 

Antoine and his wife, Latonia, have been married for 25 years and have two sons, Justin and Christopher. They reside in Salisbury, NC.

Annie Locke is a joyful Bible teacher. She is the happy wife of Ronjour, and Mama to their 4, who they call “The Locke Flock!” Together, they serve through teaching, discipleship, and music at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, in Raleigh, NC. As a consultant for structured discipleship, she equips and encourages women and children to see their roles and spiritual gifts as vital for the fulfillment of the Great Commission, and for the flourishing of the family of God. She is most passionate about loving God and others by displaying and declaring the redeeming love of Christ!

Terry Long serves as the church health and revitalization strategist with the Ministry Strategies group. He has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since April 2020.

Originally from Oklahoma, Terry received Christ as Lord and Savior at age 9 during Vacation Bible School. He received a call to ministry during his sophomore year in college.

Prior to joining the state convention, Terry served as senior pastor of West Burnsville Baptist Church. During his two decades in vocational ministry, he has also served as a pastor of children, students and education.

Terry holds a doctorate of ministry in church revitalization and a master’s degree in theology from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Terry is married to Joyce, and they have five children. The Longs enjoy playing outside, hiking, kayaking and anything that gets the kids’ energy out.

Gabe Magan serves the Convention Relations group as the engagement strategist. He has been on staff at N.C. Baptists since November 2021.

Gabe was born and raised in Ohio and has a bachelor’s degree in theology and apologetics from Liberty University and a master of divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Gabe lives in Wake Forest with his wife, Hannah, and their daughter, Molly, and they are members of The Summit Church. He enjoys reading good books, drinking great coffee and being mediocre at golf.

Kecia Mariotti-Fitch has served with Baptist state convention ministries since 1996. She currently serves as accounting services manager with the Operations group. Previously, Kecia served with N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM) as a financial and missions partnership assistant.

Jason Miller serves as a regional mission catalyst with the Baptist State Convention of NC since September 2024.

Jason was pastor of Dutch Cove Missionary Baptist Church in Canton. Miller was born in a small peach farming community in the foothills of South Carolina.

He earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering and a Masters of Engineering from Clemson University and worked as a Professional Engineer for a little over a decade before following God’s leadership into pastoral ministry. In preparation for ministry, the Lord led Miller to earn his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

He is married to his high school sweetheart, Megan, and they have three wonderful miracles: Mollie, Caleb and Abbey.

Eric Mullis serves as a regional mission catalyst with the Baptist state convention.

Prior to joining the state convention, Eric served for 15 years with the International Mission Board. Most recently, he lived in Bangkok, Thailand, where he served as a church planter and team leader for the Bangkok city team. Prior to moving to Bangkok, Eric lived in Hat Yai, Thailand, where he worked as the team leader/strategy coordinator for the southern Thailand region.

Eric holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, a master of divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, a master’s degree in intercultural studies from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a doctorate in applied theology (missiology) from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Eric grew up in Concord, N.C. Prior to vocational ministry, Eric lived in Charlotte, where he worked in real estate. He and his wife, Tricia, have three children. In his free time, Eric enjoys reading, spending time with family, traveling, watching Carolina Panthers football and hiking in the North Carolina mountains.

Hannah Nelson serves as the executive assistant to the executive director-treasurer of the Baptist state convention.

Hannah is a native of Leesburg, Virginia. She graduated from Liberty University with a bachelor’s degree in music and worship ministries and a master’s degree in human services counseling.

Hannah attends Tabernacle Baptist Church in Raleigh, where her husband Sam serves as one of the pastors. Hannah and Sam have one son and enjoy traveling, playing music and being outdoors.

Elisa Nguyen serves as a ministry assistant with the Ministry Strategies group. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since February 2024.

Elisa grew up in Israel before moving to Virginia to pursue a degree in family and child development at Liberty University. There she met her husband, Nathan who currently works at Summit Church leading worship. Shortly after getting married, they both served at Second Baptist Church in Houston, Texas.

Before joining the Baptist state convention, Elisa worked in healthcare provider enrollment as well as managed night shifts at Crumbl.

Elisa is excited about her role at the Baptist State Convention and looks forward to seeing God move in and through the churches of North Carolina.

Casey Norkett serves as a regional mission catalyst with the Baptist state convention.

Prior to joining the state convention, Casey served as the missions pastor at Hickory Grove Baptist Church in Charlotte since February 2015. Previously, he and his family served with the International Mission Board.

Casey is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS). He is currently pursuing his doctorate in missions and evangelism from SEBTS.

Casey and his wife, Amber, have four biological children and are currently fostering a little boy.

Bradley Norris serves as the Director of the Operations Group for the Baptist State Convention. He joined the staff in September 2021.

Immediately prior to joining the convention staff, Bradley served as the executive pastor for Grace Alive Church in Orlando, Fla. His ministry journey includes the privilege of serving on staff at three North Carolina Baptist churches in various capacities, reflecting a deep commitment to local church leadership. Currently, he continues his service as a lay elder at another N.C. Baptist Church, maintaining his commitment and dedication to N.C. Baptists and those within the area.

Prior to entering full-time ministry, Bradley worked with a variety of for-profit and nonprofit organizations in the areas of business and operations, including Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Chick-fil-A.

Bradley earned his bachelors and master’s degrees from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.

He and his wife, Kristy, have two full-of-energy boys and live in Wendell.

Victor Nunes brings over a decade of cross-cultural ministry experience in South America and the U.S. Originally from Brazil, he has served alongside diverse people groups, leaders and churches in multicultural contexts. He is passionate about reaching immigrants, refugees and international communities, especially those with little or no access to the gospel. At the core of his calling is a desire to help people encounter Jesus, grow in His family and live out their God-given mission.

Victor holds bachelor’s degrees in anthropology and missiology and a master’s degree in intercultural studies. He and his wife have two daughters.

Ethan Nunn serves as the executive assistant for the Marketing & Communications Group. He has been on staff with N.C. Baptists since August 2018.

A native of Raeford, N.C., Ethan graduated from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. He previously served with N.C. Baptists as a summer staff member with Deep Impact, a ministry of Baptists on Mission, BeDoTell and the state convention’s youth evangelism and discipleship ministry. He also previously served as a ministry assistant to the College Ministry and the Worship & Music Ministry with the Ministry Strategies Group.

Ethan lives in Knightdale with his wife, Hannah, and their daughter, Daphne. They are members of BridgePoint Church, where they both serve on the worship team. In their free time, they enjoy watching the Carolina Hurricanes, going to see live music any chance they get, drinking great coffee, and hanging out with friends and family.

Evette came to know Jesus as Savior at 8 years old. In college she accepted a call to full-time ministry and has spent the last 30 years serving in the local church. She has served Central Church in Wendell over the last 24 years in various roles: children’s minister, church administrator, weekday preschool director, school administrator and director of operations.

Evette is a graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, with a Master of Divinity in Christian Education, and a graduate of Appalachian State University, with a Bachelor of Science in Communications. She and her husband have two sons. She has a motorcycle and enjoys riding with her family.

William Ortega serves as the Hispanic church planting strategist with the Ministry Strategies group. He has been on staff with the Baptist state convention since June 2013.

William’s primary responsibility is to provide field service and consultation for associations and church leaders in the area of church planting among Hispanics, developing a strategy to ensure that all Hispanic people are being targeted and engaged through different church planting efforts across the state. He also assists in planning and conducting training events and conferences for church planters and church leaders.

William was born in Costa Rica. Before joining the state convention, William served as a career missionary and mega-city strategist in Mexico City with the International Mission Board for 14 years. William also previously pastored and planted churches in North Carolina for more than a decade while working on prioritizing church planting opportunities with the North American Mission Board in the Utah-Idaho Southern Baptist Convention area.

William is a graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Orpha, have two daughters.

Paul serves as a Church Planting Strategist for SendNC. He previously served SendNC as a contractor from 2020.

Paul has served in various ministry roles for over 30 years which include planting two churches. Many of his first years in ministry Paul was bi-vocational. As a result, he has a business background specializing in management, marketing and customer service.

Paul is passionate about discipling and shepherding. His work with SendNC is focused on the Planter Pathway, Assessment and Training. Paul also works with local churches to develop a reproducing and multiplying culture resulting in churches planting churches.

Paul and his wife, Rebecca, have been married for 29 years and have two adult children, Sam and Abby. They reside in Emerald Isle, NC.

Janet serves as the Global Missions Coordinator.  She and her husband currently live near Raleigh, and they have one daughter.

Ji Ae Park serves as the information technology (IT) manager assistant for the Operations group.

Ji Ae Park graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in computer science, and from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary with a master of divinity in Christian education.

In February 2019, she and her husband, Seongho (Paul), planted a Korean Baptist church named Yeollin Baptist Church, in Morrisville, N.C.

Ji Ae and Seongho have two daughters.

Addison Parker grew up in Catawba, NC, and graduated from Liberty University with a degree in youth ministry. She got connected with N.C. Baptists through serving with the BeDoTell staff. In her free time, Addison enjoys hanging out with friends, being outside and serving the next generation. She is passionate about sharing the gospel with the next generation!

Michael (Mike) Parry has served with the Baptist state convention since July 2017.

Mike became the Facilities Manager in May 2026 after previously serving in accounting, as assistant facilities manager and as Human Resources coordinator.

A native of Gainesville, Florida, Mike has lived in the Raleigh area since August 2006.

Abby Patrick recently graduated from Liberty University and now lives in Raleigh, N.C. She’s been happily married to her husband, Josh, for one year. In her free time, she enjoys playing pickleball. Abby is originally from Garner.

Dee is a North Carolina native and grew up in the Garner area. She has been involved in missions since childhood and has a huge heart for serving and equipping others to serve. She spent 18 years in the field of music education, mostly at the elementary level, while volunteering with her local church. Dee received her college degrees from Meredith College and UNC Greensboro. Go Spartans! Dee, her husband, Shawn, and kids Ryne and Clara, have been very involved in Appalachian Coalfields ministry over the last 10 years. They were Appalachian Christmas Outreach representatives in their county, teaching and training local congregations to get involved in the ministry. Dee and Shawn have also done extensive disaster relief training through Baptists on Mission and have served on DR sites in North Carolina and West Virginia. 

They recently planted Township Church in Johnston County, where Shawn serves as lead pastor and Dee as the worship leader. Ryne is passionate about serving in kids ministry and Clara serves on the tech team. They are trying to show their congregation how to «live differently and love differently.»

Katie Pegram serves as an associate student ministries strategist for the Ministry Strategies group. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since November 2019.

Katie grew up in Greenville, North Carolina, and graduated from Flagler College in 2013 with a degree in sport management and youth ministry. After college, Katie spent time in Canada, Texas and North Carolina working at Christian camps.

Katie and her husband, David, live in Fuquay-Varina and enjoy spending time wakeboarding, watching college football and serving others in their community.

Mike Pittman serves as the SendNC Director for the Ministry Strategies group. He has been on staff at the Baptist State Convention since February 2019.

Joey Prince serves the Biblical Recorder as the ministry assistant.

He is a native of Duncan, North Carolina, a small community located a few miles west of Fuquay-Varina.

Joey graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in computer science, and he worked for the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services in the information technology (IT) field for more than 30 years.

Following his retirement from state government, Joey began working for the Baptist state convention in February 2018.

Joey and his wife, Wendy, reside in Duncan and are members of Macedonia Baptist Church. They have three grown children.

Gayla joined Baptists on Mission in August 2024. She worked as a statistician for about 11 years prior to staying at home with her children and homeschooling for about 22 years. 

Gayla has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Meredith College and a master’s degree in applied mathematics from NC State. She is involved with the Village 127 (foster/adoption) ministry and the children’s ministry at Apex Baptist Church. Gayla and her husband Chris have 4 young adult children – Grace (husband Cole), Yulia, John, and Joel.

Anna Rambeaut serves as a ministry assistant with the Ministry Strategies group.

Anna grew up in Angier, North Carolina. She previously served with the Baptist state convention as a summer staff member with BeDoTell, the state convention’s youth evangelism and discipleship ministry.

Anna and her husband, Blake, live in Holly Springs and attend The Summit Church, where she serves on the worship team. In her free time, she enjoys shooting wedding photography, being outdoors and spending time with friends and family.

Ron Rasberry has been serving North Carolina Baptists since 1994. He began as an information technology (IT) manager working to develop and improve the convention’s servers and computer networks and to support end-user computer systems. Today, he is focused on the convention’s servers and networks across multiple facilities; communications systems, such as phones and email; and security systems protecting both the physical building as well as network and computer systems.

Before coming to the Baptist state convention, Ron earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and worked as a programmer for a small programming company. Later, he worked for IBM before moving into network management in the banking industry.
Ron enjoys serving alongside North Carolina Baptists. He also enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife, Belva Jane, and their three children.

Ron currently serves as an elder at Good Hope Baptist Church in Cary, North Carolina, where he and his family are members.

Ryan was born in Seattle, Wash., but has lived most of his life in North Carolina. He is a student at Appalachian State University, where he is pursuing a degree in political science with a minor in communications. In Boone, he attends Perkinsville Baptist Church and is part of a Cru small group. 

An avid sports fan, Ryan cheers for the Boston Celtics and Seattle Seahawks. He enjoys listening to audiobooks, hitting the gym, playing basketball and spending time with friends and family.

He first served as the assistant facilities manager in the summer of 2025 and returned in 2026.

Daniel Rose serves as the student ministries strategist for the Ministry Strategies group.

Prior to joining the Baptist state convention, he served four years as the student pastor at The Summit Church – Capital Hills Campus.

Daniel is a proud alumni of North Carolina State University and received his master’s degree at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. While in college, he served with N.C. Baptists and the BeDoTell team for five years.

Daniel is married to his high school sweetheart, Hunter, and they are expecting their first child in the summer of 2023.

Lynn Sasser serves as the Special Advisor to the Executive Director-Treasurer.

Lynn first joined the state convention in July 1999. He served as a consultant on the Church Planting team, team leader for Associational Partnerships and executive leader for the former Congregational Services group prior to becoming executive leader of the Evangelism and Discipleship group in 2004. Lynn retired from the state convention in 2020 but has remained active in serving North Carolina Baptists.

A native of North Carolina, Lynn served as a local church pastor for 20 years, followed by three years as an associational mission strategist before coming to the convention.

Lynn has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology from James Madison University, and both master of divinity and doctor of ministry degrees from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
He and his wife, Deborah, have three children and two grandchildren.

Shannon Simons serves as the payroll coordinator with the Operations group. She has been on staff at the Baptist state convention since April 2016, following 12 years of experience in retail and hospitality management.

Shannon graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and a minor in business management. She later earned her Master’s of Business Administration from the UNC Pembroke. She also worked as a contractor with the convention from 2009-2010 in the area of collegiate scholarships.

Shannon’s hobbies are Clemson football, English/Scottish history, and all things Disney. She also has a big heart for missions.

Daniel Spivey serves as the associate director for the Marketing and Communications group. Daniel has been on staff at the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina since February 2022.

Daniel is a graduate of North Carolina State University and holds a master’s degree in Christian Studies from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. As the associate director, Daniel coordinates and strategically aligns marketing and communication plans while also assisting in communication training opportunities for N.C. Baptist churches.

Daniel and his wife, Brooks, live in Pittsboro and have one child. They attend The Summit Church. Daniel enjoys spending time with his family and friends, watching college football, and exploring the outdoors. He is excited to support North Carolina Baptists through strategic marketing and communications to support a movement of churches on mission together.

Leah graduated from North Carolina State University in 2025 with a degree in business administration and a concentration in human resources. She attends Providence Church and leads a bible study with a group of college students. In her free time, Leah enjoys going to the beach, baking and playing pickleball.

Traci is a Jacksonville native and has lived in various parts of eastern North Carolina. She serves alongside her husband in ministry, and they have three sons. Traci is passionate about serving on mission with her family, whether at their local church or in the community. She enjoys thrifting and estate sales.

Crystin Stewart joined Baptists on Mission in April 2025. Before this role, Crystin was an e-learning technologist at Wake Technical Community College and taught for 15 years in the Wake County Public School System. She graduated from North Carolina State University and University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

Crystin is passionate about supporting educators and students at home and abroad while sharing the love of Jesus. She also enjoys teaching children’s life group and hosting discipleship groups in her home.

Bethany Taylor serves as an accounting assistant for the Operations group. She has been with the state convention since October 2022.

Prior to joining the convention, Bethany was a stay-at-home mom for five years. She has also worked part-time in her home church as their first children’s minister to help grow the ministry to children and families. Native to North Carolina, Bethany grew up in Fuquay-Varina and still lives in that area. She has a bachelor’s degree from North Greenville University in Greenville, S.C.

Bethany and her husband, Jeremy, have three children and enjoy spending time together exploring the world God made. They continue to be active in her home church of Piney Grove Baptist Church.

Derek Toone serves as the digital experience manager with the Marketing and Communications group.

Before joining the Baptist state convention, Derek served as a digitization assistant for five years at the Archives at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (SEBTS). He also holds a master of divinity in missiology from SEBTS.

Amy Torcasso serves as a ministry assistant with the Ministry Strategies group.

During her time with N.C. Baptists, Amy has helped coordinate promotional efforts for the Cooperative Program and the North Carolina Missions Offering. She currently serves with the SendNC team, assisting sending churches and church planters in their calling to multiply the gospel across North Carolina.

Amy earned a degree in visual communications from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. She is a member of Mount Hermon Baptist in Raleigh. Amy and her husband, Mike, have three children and are blessed with four grandchildren.

A lifelong North Carolinian, Riley loves music, his Fairview Baptist Church community, and spending time with his wife, Lila, whom he married in May 2025. He has the privilege of playing drums for his church’s worship team and enjoys serving in various missions opportunities, both locally and abroad.

With a passion for the local church and the Great Commission, Todd Unzicker’s vision for North Carolina Baptists is focused on rallying them to be a movement of churches on mission together.

Unzicker was elected executive director-treasurer in May 2021. Before leading the work of the state convention, Unzicker served on staff at The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham from 2012 to 2021. He has also served as a director of missions in Florida and as a missionary in Central America.

Unzicker earned his bachelor’s degree from the Baptist Bible College of Florida and his master of divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological seminary. Prior to his salvation and his call to ministry, Unzicker worked as a sports reporter covering the nationally ranked University of Georgia football program.

A native of Fairfax, Virginia, Unzicker has been married to his wife, Ashley, since 2007. They have three children and reside in Wake Forest.

For additional information or a headshot, please email communications@ncbaptist.org

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Brian Upshaw has served in a variety of leadership positions since joining the state convention in October 2008.

Brian was named director of the Ministry Strategies group in October 2021. He also serves as the state convention’s associate executive director-treasurer.

During his tenure, Brian served a stint as the convention’s interim executive director-treasurer, and at different times he led the work of the Evangelism and Discipleship group, the Disciple-Making team, the Church Health and Revitalization team, and the former Church Ministry team. Brian also coordinates the annual N.C. Baptist Disciple-Making Conference.

Prior to joining the state convention, Brian served local churches in Mississippi, Louisiana and Georgia. From 2000 to 2008, he served at First Baptist Church of Gulfport, Mississippi, where he ascended to the office of senior associate pastor. He has also served in various youth ministry and education roles in local churches.

Brian has also led or participated in several short-term mission trips. In addition, he has trained pastors and church leaders in East Asia, the Philippines, Moldova and Argentina.

A native of Marietta, Georgia, Brian earned his bachelor’s degree in music education from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia. He taught music and was a middle school band director for several years before answering a call to vocational ministry.

Brian went on to earn his master of divinity, master of theology and doctor of philosophy degrees from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina, where he teaches graduate-level courses in leadership and disciple-making.

Brian and his wife, Brandie, have two grown children.

Aaron Wallace has devoted his ministry to shepherding God’s people, raising up leaders and championing the call to go and make disciples. He served as the lead pastor of Hephzibah Baptist Church in Wendell for 15 years. Wallace is a graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity in Christian Education and a B.S. in Theology from Florida Baptist Theological College. He and his wife, Melanie, have two married daughters.

Aaron’s heart for ministry is rooted in the belief that the local church is God’s chosen vessel for gospel impact. He is passionate about equipping churches to multiply—through disciple-making, church planting and missions—so that every community in North Carolina and beyond has access to the hope of Jesus.

Caleb was born and raised in New Bern, N.C., and later graduated from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with a degree in Communication Studies and a minor in History. He holds a Master of Divinity in International Church Planting and a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

Following his service as a deputy sheriff, Caleb and his family served with the International Mission Board for six years in Bulgaria and then returned to North Carolina to pastor First Baptist Church of King. He and Sarah are the proud parents of four children: Hannah Kate, Ben, Eliza and Nathan. Caleb enjoys coffee, exploring small towns, kayaking, board games and old books.

Originally from Tennessee, Kerrigan moved to North Carolina after high school and quickly fell in love with Raleigh. With a degree in Professional Studies and years of experience supporting start-up coffee businesses, she brings a strong background in hospitality, logistics and client relations. Kerrigan is excited to bring that same passion to the Convention Relations team.

Outside of work, she enjoys exploring local coffee shops, discovering new music and spending time outdoors.

Krissy Watson has a love for dentistry and missions as she serves as the dental ministry coordinator for N.C. Baptists on Mission (NCBM). She is responsible for the promotion and scheduling of two mobile dental units that have weekly clinics throughout the state, development of training materials for dental hosts and drivers, and is responsible for dental partnerships with churches and other organizations to help provide for those in need.

Prior to this position, Krissy worked in dentistry as a certified dental assistant for over 18 years. She has been on many medical/dental-related mission trips to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua over the years. She has an associate’s degree in health science/dental assisting from Florence Darlington Technical College and a bachelor’s in Christian studies from Anderson University.

Krissy serves as a helpmate and pastor’s wife alongside her husband, Brandon, at Bethlehem Baptist Church, and they have one daughter.

Andy Williams serves as the missions giving strategist with the Convention Relations group. He has served with N.C. Baptists since May 2022.

Andy has a Master of Divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Iowa. He has nearly two decades of business and marketing experience, ranging from a Fortune 100 company to an international start-up. He is passionate about encouraging marketplace professionals in their kingdom impact.

Andy’s family lives in Wake Forest and is active at North Wake Church. Andy enjoys amateur photography and water sports, such as swimming and body surfing.

Daniel is passionate about teaching, discipleship, equipping others to love Jesus and do ministry, and seeking to glorify Jesus in all of life. He is studying Pastoral Ministry at Judson College. Daniel serves at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church in youth ministry and teaches in various capacities, which he sees as a deep joy and privilege. In his free time, he enjoys reading and studying.

Faith Yeager and her husband, Sam, enjoy going to the beach and hosting friends and family. Faith loves to bake – anything from bread to cookies. She has lived in Raleigh since 2020 and attends Providence Church.

Sydney is from Columbus, Ohio, and graduated from The Ohio State University (Go Bucks!) in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies. She then joined her church’s staff and served there for more than three years. That’s where her passion for the local church as God’s plan A to reach students, cities and the nations grew. As an Ohio native, most of Sydney’s current hobbies, like reading and baking bread, are consistent with being landlocked by flat farmland, but she is excited to do more hiking with her husband, John Mark, in North Carolina.