Covid-19 Info & Updates
UUS is currently in Phase 3 of our Covid-19 reopening plan. Services are multiplatform, with both in person and virtual participation.
Click to learn more about our phases, requirements for meeting in person, and the overall UUS COVID response. Read more »
Minister & Staff
General contact information
Unitarian Universalist Society
2355 Oakdale Road
Coralville, IA 52241
319-337-3443
admin@uusic.org
We are currently seeking a Director of Lifespan Religious Education. Click here for more information.
Minister
Rev. Diana Smith
Minister
minister@uusic.org
319-337-3443
Rev. Diana Smith moved to Iowa City and began her settled ministry at UUS in August 2020. Beginning a ministry in the midst of a pandemic, devastating storms, and uprisings is challenging, and yet she is delighted to be here and building a shared ministry with UUS. As UUS's minister, she is responsible for worship and pastoral care, coordinates with UUS's justice teams and public ministries, and serves as head of staff. Learn more
Available:
- For meetings by appointment
- Regular work days Sunday through Thursdays
Full-time Staff
Emma Barnum
Congregational Administrator
admin@uusic.org
319-337-3443
Emma is responsible for the general management of the operational programs of the UUS office and facilities, including accounting and HR. Learn more
Available:
- By appointment
Peggy Garrigues
Director of Congregational Life
dcl@uusic.org
319-337-3443
Peggy works with visitors and new members, helps with outreach and program development, and supports UUS groups. Learn more
- Tuesdays: 9:30 am to noon
- Wednesdays: 1 to 4 pm
- Thursdays: 9:30 am to noon, 1 to 4 pm
- May be in the office Mondays or Fridays- check ahead of time
- By Appointment
Marsha Thrall
Director of Lifespan Religious Education
education@uusic.org
319-337-3443
Marsha oversees education programs and helps families connect at UUS. Learn more
Availability:
- By appointment (Schedule here)
Part-time Staff
Alex Heetland
Director of Congregational Music
music@uusic.org
319-337-3443
Alex is responsible for the overall leadership of the music program, including the choir. Learn more
Available:
- By Appointment
Jeff Walberg
Publicity and AV Coordinator
Jeff chairs the Publicity Committee, which assists UUS groups in event promotions and manages all public-facing digital and print communications. Learn more
Available:
- By appointment
Nik Jakob
Administrative Assistant
admin.assistant@uusic.org
319-337-3443
Nik assists the Congregational Administrator. His main responsibilities are updating monitor announcements, creating orders of service, and record keeping. Learn more
- Thursdays 11 am to 1 pm
- Fridays 9 am to 2 pm
- By appointment
Anna Rode
RE Assistant
re.assistant@uusic.org
319-337-3443
Anna provides administrative support to the DLRE and religious education program, including overseeing the nursery and childcare for Sunday services and events.
Available:
- Most Sundays during services.
Hsin-Hui Liu
Staff Pianist & Music Outreach Coordinator
Hsin-Hui is responsible for providing music for our Sunday services and for planning musical events at UUS. Learn more
Available:
- By Appointment
Ron Wright
Building Steward
admin@uusic.org
319-337-3443
Ron is responsible for general maintenance of the UUS building and grounds. Learn more
Available:
- Contact the UUS office for maintenance requests
Affiliated Community Minister
Rev. Lois Cole
Affiliated Community Minister
Rev. Lois connects the congregation to her ministry as a hospital chaplain, and occasionally preaches, teaches, or provides other ministerial services to congregational members. Learn more
Available:
- By appointment