She has been part of the Methodist/United Methodist Church almost all of her life. Her background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Chicago State University where she majored in Finance, Money and Banking. She received a Masters of Divinity in Worship and the Arts, with a minor in pastoral care and counseling, from Gammon Seminary in Georgia. She was ordained a deacon in 1983 and an elder in 1985, serving the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church in pastoral ministry since being a student in 1980.
She has served congregations in Atlanta, Georgia, Maywood, Aurora and Chicago, Illinois. Prior to coming to St. Thomas, she served for 7 years as the Aurora District Superintendant.
Danita has an incredible passion for learning/teaching and preaching. She has a close family that includes two sisters, three nephews and a niece who live in the greater Chicago area, who are loved deeply by her and with whom she shares a warm and caring delight in living each day! Danita loves to travel. She has been throughout most of the United States, and has traveled to Israel, Switzerland and made two trips to Angola, Africa.
She has an open, honest and engaging personality. She is quick to laugh and to find humor in everyday situations! She is interested in opportunities for getting acquainted with all persons in the congregation, especially those who are new visitors.
Reverend Danita has a deep and abiding love of our Lord that is pervasive in her conversations, actions and work. It is the core of her very being and the focus of her life!
She is excited about returning with our local church and we look forward to her leadership in guiding us into the future.
For a more detailed biography/resume, please contact our church office.