Skip to Main Content

New Event Coordinator joins NIC staff

Posted: September 10 2024 at 01:00 PM
Ariel Alonso

Ariel Alonso

The Northern Illinois Conference announces that Ariel Alonso will begin work on Sept. 12 as the conference's events coordinator/administrative assistant. 

Ariel will work closely with Rev. Fabiola Grandon-Mayer, director of connectional ministries, and Rev. Christian Coon, director of congregational development. She will assist with the coordination of all conference and district-level events, including annual conference sessions.

“It is a joy to welcome Ariel to our team," said Rev. Grandon-Mayer. "Her experience in the United Methodist connection, creativity in her work, and excellent communication and relationship skills will be crucial in this role."

Rev. Coon added, “Ariel has had a stellar career in working for the UMC in many capacities. She knows our denomination well and her experience and many gifts will be welcomed by our conference."

Ariel, a lifelong United Methodist, grew up in Indiana and has lived in the Chicago area for almost 25 years. She worked for the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women for several years before leaving to care for her children full-time. More recently, she served on the staff of First United Methodist Church in Evanston.

"I'm excited about the opportunity to expand my knowledge and connect with a diverse range of individuals within the Northern Illinois Conference," said Ariel. 

Ariel is married and has two daughters, ages 18 and 15. She enjoys reading, watching British mysteries, and spending time with friends and family.

Contact Ariel by email or telephone her at (312) 334-0700.

News & Announcements

Groupstatreporting

Time to Submit Your Church Statistics and Final Apportionment Payments

It’s that time of year for churches to report their 2025 attendance, ministries, and financial records to the conference office. Reports are due Jan. 31. A…

Oneworldsign

14 Chicago Church Leaders to Call US Government to Recommit to Paris Agreement

As the U.S. government prepares to withdraw from the Paris Agreement on climate change effective Jan. 27, leaders of 14 Chicago-area Christian deno…

2025 Mlk Banner Cmyk

Dr. King Wanted to Build a Better World, Not a Monument

In his reflection, Rev. Dr. Charles A. Woolery Sr., challenges readers to move beyond a comfortable, sanitized remembrance of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to engage hi…

Ac 2026 Logo Square

Gathering in Hope Together

Clergy and lay members will gather June 14–16 in Schaumburg for the Northern Illinois Conference’s 187th Annual Conference, centered on the theme “Practicing Hope.” With inspiring worship, engaging…

Print