Annual Convention 2022

103rd Annual Convention

2022 CONVENTION NOMINEE PROFILES Delegates will elect new members to positions of diocesan leadership. All nominees were invited to provide a digital photo and to respond to the following question: In 150 words or less: If elected, I would bring the following strengths to this position. Standing Committee, Lay Member

Sharon White, Grace, Lexington If elected, I will bring experience from serving two terms as the President of the Augusta Convocation and a lay member of the Executive Board. My strengths lie in my listening skills, commitment, and creativity. I have been active in the DIOSWVA as a Christian Education presenter for workshops, Safeguarding God's Children trainer, a Living Local Joining God mentor, and a member of the Executive Board’s Education and Finance committees. At the parish level, I am or have been a teacher, lay reader, chalice bearer, Lay Eucharistic Visitor, an EfM mentor, conference organizer, and musician. I have been active in Episcopal churches in South Carolina, Texas, Louisiana, and Virginia. I would be honored to serve as a lay member on the Standing Committee.

Brenda Garrison, St. Paul, Bear Mountain I am a cradle Episcopalian, baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s, Bear Mountain and a lifetime member. I serve as the senior warden of the vestry currently and in other capacities for years. I am an active member of the Monacan Indian Nation and served as a council member for years. I am treasurer for the Scholarship Fund. I lead morning prayer services as needed and serve as a Eucharistic lay minister. I have taught Sunday School and worked with summer camps as well as Youth@Convention. I have also served many years as lay delegate at Convention.

Laura Beth Weaver, Christ, Blacksburg It would be an honor to serve the good folks of DIOSWVA in the capacity of Standing Committee Lay Member. I have served on my parish Vestry (including Sr. Warden), share leadership for our Children's Chapel programming, serve on the Constitution & Canons Convention Committee, and facilitate Safeguarding God's Children for both my parish and via Zoom for the diocesan-wide offerings. Professionally, I bring experience answering the National Suicide Hotline, providing services to victims of sexual and domestic violence, and providing leadership to a local non-profit organization. My faith informs both my certainties and questions. My husband and I are raising our children among the saints at Christ Church, Blacksburg and live on our family's farm near Riner, VA. As an added bonus, I enjoy standing through meetings and would therefore fit nicely on the Standing Committee. Peace!

15