Leadership

Reverend Andrea Kraushaar

Reverend Andrea Kraushaar

Senior Pastor

Pronouns – She/Her

My name is Rev. Andrea Kraushaar (pronounced On-drea… Kraus-are). I am blessed to be married to my husband, Joshua Kraushaar. We have 2 children: Wesley and Grace. Our family loves being outside. Some of our hobbies are riding our bikes, kayaking, camping, and taking our dogs, Henry and Gus for walks.

I received my call to ministry when I was in high school. It was through the faith teachings of my grandmother and her persistent reminder that God had spoken to her and told her to prepare me for ministry, that I accepted my call to ministry before my senior year in high school. I attended Morningside College and received my bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies and Sociology. Josh and I then moved to Kansas City where I would earn my Masters of Divinity in 2004. It was here in Kansas City that I passion for those who are homeless and on the poverty line. I was invited by two other seminary students to create a homeless ministry that offered food, clothing, and crisis counseling.

515-279-0826 x 2300

pastorandrea@wdmumc.org

 

Reverend Jordan Derhammer Capek

Reverend Jordan Derhammer Capek

Associate Pastor

Pronouns – She/Her

My name is Jordan Derhammer Capek. I grew up in Cedar Falls, IA. I pursued my undergraduate studies in Religion and Ethics at the University of Northern Iowa, graduating in 2016. My passion for ministry and social justice led me to Iliff School of Theology, where I earned my Master’s of Divinity in 2019. One of my passions is working with children and youth, focusing on creating a welcoming environment for all, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or culture. I believe that the church is a place of inclusivity and love.

My wife (Megan) and I share a home with four beloved cats: Rudy, Gertrude, O’Malley, and Graham. I consider myself to be a crafty person, with skills in crocheting, knitting, t-shirt making, etc… I also love to listen to audiobooks and podcasts.

pastorjordan@wdmumc.org

Devan Jeffries

Devan Jeffries

Director of Administration/ Business Manager

Pronouns – She/Her

My name is Devan Jeffries! I was born and raised on the east side of Des Moines, but recently my family and I have moved to Bondurant. I am an East High School alumni and graduated from Grand View University majoring in Human Services and minoring in Psychology in 2014. I recently worked at a local youth-serving non-profit organization for the past ten years where I supported the growth of the after-school programming.

My position as the Director of Administration & Business oversees many of the day-to-day operations of the church in areas of administration, communications, finance, and church facilities. When I am not supporting WDM UMC, you will find me and my husband, Vincent, chasing around our three young children, Vinny, Brynnlee, and Easton. A few of my hobbies include supporting my favorite sporting teams (Bears/Cubs/Hawkeyes), bowling, and dirt track racing.

515-279-0826 x 2100

churchoffice@wdmumc.org

 

Kyle Lechtenberg

Kyle Lechtenberg

Chancel Choir Director

Pronouns – He/His

My name is Kyle Lechtenberg. I have served in liturgy and music positions on campus, congregational, and bishop’s office settings. I began my career as a public school vocal music teacher. I hold a bachelor of music education from the University of Northern Iowa and a master of theological/liturgical studies from the University of Notre Dame. I am the author of numerous articles and resources on pastoral worship practices for lay staff and clergy. In addition to working with the Chancel Choir, I also assist City Voices, a Des Moines-based nonprofit organization. My wife,Kara Ullestad, and I live in Des Moines. I am a fulltime stayathome parent to my two kids, Sage and Oliver.

515-279-0826 x 2130

kyle.lechtenberg@wdmumc.org

 

 

Jennifer Hawkins

Jennifer Hawkins

Director of Bell Ministry

Pronouns – She/Her

I’m Jennifer! I’m a proud local, having grown up right here in West Des Moines, and I’m also a Valley High School alum. My journey in music and a desire to help others took me to Simpson College, where I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Music Education and a minor in Psychology. I first learned to ring handbells within the walls of this very church and I’ve carried that love for bringing people together through music to worship our Savior, Jesus, ever since.

Currently, I wear quite a few hats in the community. I teach at Johnston Community Schools, choreograph and coach Colorguard at Des Moines Christian School, and direct at Plymouth Church. On top of all that, I share and educate about BEMER as an independent distributor. It’s a busy life, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I’m a mom to my son, Izaac, who’s on track to graduate from Johnston in 2025. My love for animals is a big part of who I am, and my little zoo at home includes my dog Zoe; my cats, Jezebel, Maggie, and Twila; and my horse, Rocky. They bring so much joy and laughter to my life, and I’m grateful for every moment with them.

515-202-2672

jennhawkins74@gmail.com

Dan Hanze

Dan Hanze

Organist

Pronouns – He/His

I grew up in Swedesburg, Iowa, where I found my passion for music playing the organ for our local church from a very young age. My love for music guided me to Drake University, where I majored in Piano Pedagogy and minored in Organ. Throughout my career, I’ve worn many hats, serving as a pianist, organist, worship leader, and choir director. On top of these roles, I’ve also been dedicated to teaching private music lessons, sharing my love and knowledge of music with others.

I’m happily married and a proud parent to two wonderful adult children. Our home is filled with music and love, and I’m grateful for the journey music has taken me on.

515-279-0826

churchoffice@wdmumc.org

 

Carol Litscher

Carol Litscher

Administrative Communications and Media Coordinator

Pronouns – She/Her

I am originally from Hedrick, a small town in southeast Iowa.  I am married to Bryan.  We have two adult children, Kate and Michael.

Prior to starting my position at the church, I have worked as a computer programmer, a systems analyst, and most recently as a project manager.

WDM UMC has been my church home for over 35 years.  I have served on a number of committees during that time.  Bryan and I have taught Sunday School for a variety of ages.  I have taken part in a number of Bible Study groups.  Most recently, I have enjoyed the “Just Read” Bible Study group.

515-279-0826 x 2120

carol.litscher@wdmumc.org

 

Amy Borness

Amy Borness

Director of Preschool

Pronouns – She/Her

My name is Amy Borness and I became the director of the West Des Moines United Methodist Early Learning Preschool in July of 2023.  I grew up in West Des Moines and graduated from Valley High School before attending the University of Northern Iowa and receiving my teaching degree in 2002.  I taught K-2 physical education in Norwalk for 7 years before staying home with my husband (Keith) and I’s children for 10 years.  I most recently worked as the lead Young 2’s teacher at our preschool for the last five years.  My husband, Keith, has taught and coached football, wrestling, and girl’s track in the West Des Moines school district for 25+ years and we are proud to say that our children, Anna and Ben, will be 4th generation Valley High School graduates.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family going to movies, and attending sporting events.  We also enjoy playing with our Golden Retriever, Macaroni.  I look forward to meeting the wonderful community of West Des Moines United Methodist Church!

515-279-8897

aborness@wdmumc.org

Paul Gesell

Paul Gesell

Custodian

 

515-279-0826 x 2250