The NLA Governing Council is the governing body authorized by the Elder Board of New Life Church to develop strategic plans and oversight of NLA. Its role is to ensure the long-term viability and stability of NLA and to monitor Academy leadership’s efforts to uphold its mission, values, and vision.
Bruce Gorter
Chairperson
Matt Twomey
Vice Chairman
Jen Willaert
Secretary
Jim Leske
Treasurer
Brett Lilly
Exec. Dir./Lead Pastor
Ryan Bailey
Patrick Doherty
Melissa Porter
Tyler Schelhaas
Curt Wetsel
2025-26 Committee Assignments
Executive Committee
Bruce Gorter
Brett Lilly
Matt Twomey
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee is responsible for refining and implementing the financial aspects of New Life Academy’s strategic plan. This includes reviewing the annual operating and capital budgets to ensure they align with the school’s financial goals and overall mission. Additionally, the committee evaluates significant financial or property transactions that are not included in the approved budget and submits proposed adjustments and recommendations to the Governing Council. Through careful oversight and strategic planning, the Finance Committee supports the long-term financial health and sustainability of New Life Academy.
Chair: Jim Leske
Betty Bomett
Matthew Brocker
Ty Frazier
Dan Getsch
Alex Haak
John Horner
Brian Jacobson
Spiritual Development Committee
Chair: Grant Lilly
Christine DeBoer
Patrick Doherty
Jed Moseman
Dan Palkki
Dr. Brian Schrader
Theresa Wold
Trustee Committee
The Trustee Committee assesses the personnel needs of the Governing Council. Additionally, it outlines the ideal characteristics required for fulfilling the roles associated with the Trustees, in accordance with Trustee bylaw guidelines. The committee conducts interviews and nominates qualified individuals for service on New Life Academy committees and the Governing Council.
Chair: Jen Willaert
Janice Anderstrom
Kristen Bryant
Wendy Dodds
Patrick Doherty
Lindsey Hudson
Dave Meier
Development Committee
The Development Committee reviews, recommends, and oversees the scheduling of all fundraising programs, gift acceptance policies, capital campaigns, as well as endowment and planned giving programs. This committee also identifies, cultivates, and solicits special major donations.
Chair: Melissa Porter
Vice Chair: Josh Brocker
Secretary: Steve Nathe
Treasurer: John Horner, Jr.
Stacy Anderstrom
Carly Bailey
Ryan Bailey
Larry Chinn
Alex Haak
Leslie Kuckler
Brandon Mellett
Carissa Rasmussen
Tony Ressie
Alison Rieger
Curt Wetsel
New Life Academy Educational Foundation
Foundation President: Melissa Porter
Secretary: Steve Nathe
Treasurer: John Horner, Jr.
Larry Chinn
Leslie Kuckler
