Written by Journalism student, Olivia F.
Sam Pederson, beloved by many at New Life, works behind the scenes both with the church and school on all things technical. His passions too extend beyond his job description.
“My title is Director of Live Production. I’m involved with planning, executing, and helping run every live event that happens between the church and the school,” Sam said. “There are many technical details that I work with daily, but also very creative and musical components like color theory. It’s super fun to have that mix and be behind the scenes.”
This year Sam stepped into a new role. He said, “It’s kind of a new position, but kind of not.” For the past six years, he has been co-teaching Academy Worship with Mr. Alan Bach. Last year, Bach had to step out. Since Sam had so many years of experience, he took over the class.
There are a lot of new things Sam is still learning, but he says it’s a big blessing having seniors Avery D., Charlie N., and Marie U. who have all been in the group for a long time and have taken up the role of leadership in the class.
Marie said, “Sam is amazing! I don’t think people realize how much he actually does for both the school and the church. He’s such a friendly and laid back but also hardworking person. It’s truly an honor to be able to lead Academy Worship with him!”
“This year was a hybrid from which worked really well I think.” Sam continued saying, “It was mine and the student’s idea to do a student leadership type of structure in this class. I’m teaching the class officially and running it but also leaning on them to tag team it and make it all happen.”
Sam also has many technical hobbies outside of what he does for the New Life community.
“I’ve written and produced original music since I was in high school, maybe even before that. You can find me on Spotify under the name YoyoBob,” he said.
Sam is a big fan of different hobbies. He’s constantly dabbling in different instruments and learning how to play things. Currently, he is teaching himself the electric guitar. In school, he played the trumpet, and still occasionally breaks it out. When he was in high school, he taught himself how to read and write elvish. Last year he was learning how to develop and program a video game. He said there are a lot of different little creative outlets that he finds fun to experiment with.
“I think part of what I envision heaven to be is that once we get there, everything that different people are passionate about will become clear to us.” He said, “For example, if I’m not passionate about math, in heaven I will understand why some people are passionate about math and then I will be like, ‘Wow, that is cool.’ Then I’ll have eternity to explore all these different aspects of life and creation and things.”
Sam has many talents and a great personality. Charlie said it best, “Sam is such a great leader, he leads with kindness and humility. If you get to know him, he’s probably one of the funniest people you’ll meet!”