Our Staff
JoAnne Alexander
Pastor & Director of Discipleship: JoAnne is a graduate of American University with an interdisciplinary degree in Performing arts and religion. She graduated from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington DC with a Master of Divinity and was ordained in the United Methodist Church where she served as a pastor until 2018. JoAnne and her husband Kent, also a pastor, have 3 grown children and 8 grandchildren who are a delight and a constant reminder of how important it is that we keep working to build the Kingdom of God.
Jack Zaleski
Financial Officer/Treasurer, Biblical Studies teacher, and lover of German Shepherd Dogs: Jack grew up in Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. After graduating from Drake University Law School, he served six years on active duty in the U.S. Navy. Following his time in the military, he worked for Staples, Inc. Jack and his wife, Terri, are enjoying their new status as “empty nesters” currently shared with two spoiled-rotten German Shepherds. Hobbies and interests include woodworking, HO scale trains, sailing, and history. Currently serving as Oakland’s finance officer, he regularly teaches adult classes on various biblical (mostly nerdish) subjects.
Jill Schweitzer
Office Administrator: A native of West Virginia, born and raised in Tucker County, Jill lived and worked in Maryland for several years before returning to the Eastern Panhandle in 1992. She started attending Oakland in the late 90’s, then joined the staff in May 2000 and has been our church administrator for the past 21 years. People calling in to Oakland will find in Jill a friendly voice and a pastoral heart!
Jill and her husband Bill, will be celebrating 29 years of marriage in September. She has 2 daughters and 5 grandchildren. She enjoys hiking, biking, gardening and just being outdoors in general. She likes to cook (and eat!) and do crossword puzzles and word puzzles. She loves animals and takes joy in caring for her 3 small dogs.