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
Curt Wetsel
Matt Engstrom
Josh Brocker
2026-27 Committee Assignments
Executive Committee
Bruce Gorter
Brett Lilly
Matt Twomey
Matt Engstrom
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
Alex Haak
Ty Frazier
John Horner Jr.
Matthew Brocker
Dan Getsch
Brian Jacobson
Elizabeth Hendricks
Tim Anderstrom
Matt Engstrom
Spiritual Development Committee
Chair: Grant Lilly
Patrick Doherty
Christine DeBoer
Dr. Brian Schrader
Dan Palkki
Jed Moseman
Kaitlin Jones
Stacey Bouillon
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
Dave Meier
Wendy Dodds
Kristen Bryant
Patrick Doherty
Janice Anderstrom
Lindsey Hudson
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: Josh Brocker
Vice Chair: Melissa Porter
Secretary: Carly Bailey
Treasurer: John Horner, Jr.
Leslie Kuckler
Larry Chinn
Allison Rieger
Tony Ressie
Alex Haak
Curt Wetsel
Brandon Mellett
Brandon Blaeser
Ryan Bailer
Sara Torgerson
New Life Academy Educational Foundation
Foundation President: Josh Brocker
Vice Chair: Melissa Porter
Secretary: Carly Bailey
Treasurer: John Horner Jr.