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Posted: September 22 2026 at 08:44 PM
Author: Lisa Smith, NIC Communications Specialist
The Northern Illinois Conference is pleased to welcome Sheryl Hatcher as its new Conference Benefits Officer. Sheryl will begin her work with the Conference on Sept. 28.
Sheryl Hatcher, new NIC Conference Benefits Officer
As Conference Benefits Officer, Sheryl will provide support to active and retired clergy as they navigate Conference benefits and will serve as a resource for questions related to benefits programs and services. She will work closely with the Board of Pensions and Health Benefits, Conference staff, Wespath, and the Clergy Fund to help clergy and their families access the resources available to them.
“Sheryl’s background and previous experience bring a wealth of knowledge about United Methodist health benefits and Compass savings programs,” said Beth Swanick, Chair of NIC Board of Pensions and Health Benefits. “She also brings strong customer service skills that will benefit our clergy, churches, and lay employees.”
“We are very fortunate to have Sheryl join our team,” said Elaine Moy, NIC Treasurer and Director of Administrative Services. “What she brings will allow her to hit the ground running, especially with open enrollment just around the corner.”
The Conference Benefits Officer serves as an important point of connection for clergy and retirees, helping them understand their benefits and navigate questions or concerns. The officer also works with Conference leadership and benefits partners to support the ongoing administration of benefits programs.
Sheryl begins her new role at an important time, with annual benefits open enrollment beginning next month. Sheryl’s appointment provides Northern Illinois with dedicated leadership for benefits support following a period of shared benefits administration with the Wisconsin Conference. Rev. Cheryl Weaver, who served as benefits officer for both conferences beginning in 2025, will continue her work with the Wisconsin Conference, concluding her work with Northern Illinois on Sept. 30.
Please reach out to welcome Sheryl and ask her any questions you may have.