About Us
WELCM
What is WELCM?
"WELCM is a “joyful” community. When we get together, there is a lot of laughter and delight as well as gentle ribbing and teasing. WELCM is also an “affirming” community. Students who march to the beat of a different drum, who are on their own unique journey of self-definition, who need to move beyond the religious and cultural strictures of their younger years are all affirmed as beloved children of God. WELCM is “safe” community. Here you can be truly yourself, how God made you. Here you will be lifted up, not put down. At WELCM you hear words of encouragement, not words of judgment or prejudice. Here you will be included, not marginalized."
Meet the Team
Interim WELCM leader
Bob Stonebraker
No. That's not me. It's Mr. Rogers. But, when I think of someone who personifies the WELCM message of offering "welcome"to all, Fred Rogers immediately comes to mind. I watched hundreds of his shows with my two sons as they were growing up and was fortunate enough to hear him give the only commencement address that I ever considered worth hearing (and I have heard many!).
Me? I'm just a retired professor of economics filling in until a more permanent campus minister can be hired/called. I'm no theologian, but I love working with college students and have been involved with campus ministries in various ways for most of my life. I'm excited about this opportunity to serve.
In every episode Mr. Rogers looked into the camera and said to those watching: "I like you just the way you are." I figure that God looks at each of us and thinks: "I love you just the way you are." That's what WELCM is all about.
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Peer Minister
Roxanne Price
Hi everybody! This past year, I have grown to love this community so much, and I cannot wait to do my part and help WELCM flourish. I am thrilled to be behind the scenes, “revamp” some things, and grow in my faith surrounded by amazing people.
Peer Minister
Vanessa Miles
Vanessa is a junior English major and has been attending WELCM since 2025. She is excited to be in her second year as a Peer Minister!
WELCM COMMITEE 2026
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Bob Stonebraker
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Sabrina Blanks, Chair
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Doug Gay, Treasurer
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Bill Sliney
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Kathy Schwandt
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Tim Hall
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Lori Brown
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Brendan Quinn
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Carla Harrison
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Tom Ludlow
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Trish Kemper
The WELCM community is supported by members of local Grace Lutheran and Epiphany Lutheran Churches who serve on the WELCM Committee. They are available to students for personal support, help with technical or automotive problems, or in any way they can.
OUR MISSION
WELCM's mission is to create an inclusive faith community for Winthrop students that explores and strengthens their relationship with God by cultivating authentic and supportive Christian community. Through fellowship, prayer, discussion, study, service, and worship, we provide avenues for students to grow their connection and commitment to God and to others.
WHAT WE DO
WELCM hosts weekly Gatherings on Tuesday evenings during term at our beautiful location just off-campus. Dinner starts at 6:10 pm, followed by a program of teaching and discussion, or worship,
and prayer. WELCM students are invited to worship at Grace Lutheran Church next door on Sunday mornings. WELCM students also enjoy regular fellowship activities, service opportunities, and spiritual retreats.