Administration & Programs
Robie Evans (She/Her)
Director of Operations - joined the staff in 2011
Robie is very pleased to be serving her fellow UUs in her role as Director of Operations. She brings with her a wealth of nonprofit experience, fiscal and program management and a core understanding and appreciation for Unitarian Universalist values. As a child, Robie attended First UU Church and the RE program. In 1980, Robie and her husband were married here by Dr. John Ruskin Clark. Currently at First UU, she is a member of the Generosity Ministry Team, the Finance Committee and is an ex-oficio member of the Board of Trustees. With over 25 years of commercial banking experience, Robie brings a wealth of knowledge to her position of Director of Operations. Prior to joining the church staff in June of 2011, she was Vice President/Senior Branch Manager of the Santee Branch of North Island Credit Union, a $30 million dollar branch. Prior to that, she worked in Santee at Pacific Western Bank for 10 years. Her background includes all areas of lending: commercial, real estate (including residential and commercial construction loans), and all forms of consumer loans. Robie also has an extensive background in non-profit work. She’s been a member of the Borrego Springs Rotary Club (Past President and Treasurer), the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center (past Artistic Director), the Santee-Lakeside Rotary Club (Past President and Treasurer), the Santee-Lakeside Rotary Club Foundation (Past Treasurer), the Santee Chamber of Commerce (past Treasurer), the San Diego Young Artists Symphony (Past President) and a former member of the board of directors of the East County Family YMCA. Robie is also a professional violinist and violist and often shares her musical talents here for various church services and events. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Director of Operations - joined the staff in 2011
Robie is very pleased to be serving her fellow UUs in her role as Director of Operations. She brings with her a wealth of nonprofit experience, fiscal and program management and a core understanding and appreciation for Unitarian Universalist values. As a child, Robie attended First UU Church and the RE program. In 1980, Robie and her husband were married here by Dr. John Ruskin Clark. Currently at First UU, she is a member of the Generosity Ministry Team, the Finance Committee and is an ex-oficio member of the Board of Trustees. With over 25 years of commercial banking experience, Robie brings a wealth of knowledge to her position of Director of Operations. Prior to joining the church staff in June of 2011, she was Vice President/Senior Branch Manager of the Santee Branch of North Island Credit Union, a $30 million dollar branch. Prior to that, she worked in Santee at Pacific Western Bank for 10 years. Her background includes all areas of lending: commercial, real estate (including residential and commercial construction loans), and all forms of consumer loans. Robie also has an extensive background in non-profit work. She’s been a member of the Borrego Springs Rotary Club (Past President and Treasurer), the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center (past Artistic Director), the Santee-Lakeside Rotary Club (Past President and Treasurer), the Santee-Lakeside Rotary Club Foundation (Past Treasurer), the Santee Chamber of Commerce (past Treasurer), the San Diego Young Artists Symphony (Past President) and a former member of the board of directors of the East County Family YMCA. Robie is also a professional violinist and violist and often shares her musical talents here for various church services and events. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Valeria Aguilar (She/Her/Hers)
Membership and Social Justice Coordinator - joined the staff in 2024
Valeria Aguilar is the Membership and Social Justice Coordinator at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego. Valeria is a San Diego native, now back in her hometown after completing her double bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Ethnic Studies at the University of California, Berkeley. While in the Bay Area, she gained experience in community organizing and leadership while further developing her interest in social justice, education, and collective action. In her spare time she practices yoga, enjoys arts and crafts, and loves going to the beach!
For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Membership and Social Justice Coordinator - joined the staff in 2024
Valeria Aguilar is the Membership and Social Justice Coordinator at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego. Valeria is a San Diego native, now back in her hometown after completing her double bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Ethnic Studies at the University of California, Berkeley. While in the Bay Area, she gained experience in community organizing and leadership while further developing her interest in social justice, education, and collective action. In her spare time she practices yoga, enjoys arts and crafts, and loves going to the beach!
For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Corina Macias
Outreach and Pantry Coordinator - joined the staff 2023
Hi, I'm Corina A. Macias, and I feel very blessed to be able to join the staff of First UU. A brief history; my parents immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico. My 6 brother's and I are the first born generation in the U.S. This has led me to pursue a career working as a Legal Assistant for an immigration law firm. During my free time I enjoy spending time with my nieces and nephews, playing with my 3 dogs, and cooking. My end goal is to work at a place where not only I can help others but where I can keep learning from others and keep growing as a person.
For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Outreach and Pantry Coordinator - joined the staff 2023
Hi, I'm Corina A. Macias, and I feel very blessed to be able to join the staff of First UU. A brief history; my parents immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico. My 6 brother's and I are the first born generation in the U.S. This has led me to pursue a career working as a Legal Assistant for an immigration law firm. During my free time I enjoy spending time with my nieces and nephews, playing with my 3 dogs, and cooking. My end goal is to work at a place where not only I can help others but where I can keep learning from others and keep growing as a person.
For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Liora Naor (She/Her/Hers)
Office Administrator - joined the staff 2024
Liora is excited to join the First UU San Diego team as their new Office Administrator. She is a first-generation San Diegan with Romanian roots. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from SDSU and has since worked in various roles, including Office Manager for the San Diego Opera Scenic Studio, Social Media Manager for a children's music education non-profit, and video editor for a popular YouTuber. Outside of work, Liora enjoys unwinding with Sci-Fi shows alongside her partner, their Corgi, and two cats. She’s passionate about creative hobbies like building miniatures, flower pressing, crafting resin art jewelry, painting, and arts & crafts. She’s also an avid PC gamer, Dungeons & Dragon player, and participates in the Society for Creative Anachronism.
For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Office Administrator - joined the staff 2024
Liora is excited to join the First UU San Diego team as their new Office Administrator. She is a first-generation San Diegan with Romanian roots. She holds a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from SDSU and has since worked in various roles, including Office Manager for the San Diego Opera Scenic Studio, Social Media Manager for a children's music education non-profit, and video editor for a popular YouTuber. Outside of work, Liora enjoys unwinding with Sci-Fi shows alongside her partner, their Corgi, and two cats. She’s passionate about creative hobbies like building miniatures, flower pressing, crafting resin art jewelry, painting, and arts & crafts. She’s also an avid PC gamer, Dungeons & Dragon player, and participates in the Society for Creative Anachronism.
For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Pam Bates
Scheduler - Rejoined the staff 2022
Pam is happy to return to First UU Staff, and to the role of Scheduler. She has been a Unitarian Universalist officially since 2008, and has shared UU values for much longer. She loves spending time with one or more of her three children. Originally from rural upstate NY, Pam has called Tierrasanta her home for over 20 years. Pam’s professional background includes operations, marketing, project, office, and chocolate-factory management, as well as development manager experience at an important San Diego non-profit.
For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Scheduler - Rejoined the staff 2022
Pam is happy to return to First UU Staff, and to the role of Scheduler. She has been a Unitarian Universalist officially since 2008, and has shared UU values for much longer. She loves spending time with one or more of her three children. Originally from rural upstate NY, Pam has called Tierrasanta her home for over 20 years. Pam’s professional background includes operations, marketing, project, office, and chocolate-factory management, as well as development manager experience at an important San Diego non-profit.
For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Religious Education Staff
Tony Bianca
Director of Lifespan Faith Formation - joined the staff in 2016
Tony Bianca is a Baltimore native. After completing his bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance at Loyola College in Maryland, Tony went on study at St. Mary's Seminary for three years as a seminarian for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Baltimore. After leaving seminary, he followed in his parent's footsteps and began his 20-year teaching career and has since earned his Master's Degree in Elementary Education. In addition to working as a teacher and campus minister in the greater Baltimore-Washington area, Tony directed the Baltimore Men's Chorus for 15 years and has worked as a vocalist and music director in several Churches and Synagogues. While he cherishes his east coast, Roman Catholic roots, Tony is delighted to embrace what he has known for some time: that he's really a west coast Unitarian at heart. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Director of Lifespan Faith Formation - joined the staff in 2016
Tony Bianca is a Baltimore native. After completing his bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance at Loyola College in Maryland, Tony went on study at St. Mary's Seminary for three years as a seminarian for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Baltimore. After leaving seminary, he followed in his parent's footsteps and began his 20-year teaching career and has since earned his Master's Degree in Elementary Education. In addition to working as a teacher and campus minister in the greater Baltimore-Washington area, Tony directed the Baltimore Men's Chorus for 15 years and has worked as a vocalist and music director in several Churches and Synagogues. While he cherishes his east coast, Roman Catholic roots, Tony is delighted to embrace what he has known for some time: that he's really a west coast Unitarian at heart. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Lara Anderson
Youth and Young Adult Coordinator - joined the staff in 2022
My name is Lara. My pronouns are She and Her. I am white and I have a ton of privilege. I am married, have three siblings and three children. I hold Bachelors degrees in Psychology and Educational Studies as well as a Masters Degree in School Counseling. I have experience working with youth as a Restorative Youth Coordinator and with adults as a Restorative Justice Practices consultant. I love to be outdoors and am constantly learning. It is with this spirit—of being an eager learner, committed to understanding what it means to be a loving, conscientious ancestor—that I approach my new role as a Youth and Young Adult Coordinator at First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego. It is an honor to be a part of such a beautiful fellowship of open-minded thinkers committed to living out the highest aspirations of this church. I look forward to meeting you. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Youth and Young Adult Coordinator - joined the staff in 2022
My name is Lara. My pronouns are She and Her. I am white and I have a ton of privilege. I am married, have three siblings and three children. I hold Bachelors degrees in Psychology and Educational Studies as well as a Masters Degree in School Counseling. I have experience working with youth as a Restorative Youth Coordinator and with adults as a Restorative Justice Practices consultant. I love to be outdoors and am constantly learning. It is with this spirit—of being an eager learner, committed to understanding what it means to be a loving, conscientious ancestor—that I approach my new role as a Youth and Young Adult Coordinator at First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego. It is an honor to be a part of such a beautiful fellowship of open-minded thinkers committed to living out the highest aspirations of this church. I look forward to meeting you. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Kate Collier
Program Assistant - Joined the staff 2021
Kate grew up in the First UU community, participating in the Voices in Unity youth choir and Looking Glass Theatre. She still loves singing and theatre, as well as baking, reading, and spending time with her chihuahua mix, Karl. She attended Mount Holyoke College, a historically women's college in Western Massachusetts, graduating with a B.A. in gender studies. Now back home in San Diego, she is thrilled to be serving the congregation that has welcomed, supported, and affirmed her throughout her life. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Program Assistant - Joined the staff 2021
Kate grew up in the First UU community, participating in the Voices in Unity youth choir and Looking Glass Theatre. She still loves singing and theatre, as well as baking, reading, and spending time with her chihuahua mix, Karl. She attended Mount Holyoke College, a historically women's college in Western Massachusetts, graduating with a B.A. in gender studies. Now back home in San Diego, she is thrilled to be serving the congregation that has welcomed, supported, and affirmed her throughout her life. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Music Staff
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Tomás Acosta is a versatile choral conductor, piano teacher, and vocal coach with over two decades of experience. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Ensenada, he holds a Bachelor of Music in Piano from the Autonomous University of Baja California and a Master’s in Choral Conducting from the University of Veracruz. Tomás has participated in master classes across Romania, Italy, Argentina, and Cuba. He currently directs the choirs at First UU San Diego, teaches at UCSD Extended Studies, and leads Las Voces de San Diego, a choir based at City Heights Music School. Additionally, he teaches at the Community Music Center, sponsored by the La Jolla Music Society, and resides in Tijuana with his wife, Sarah.
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Andrea Spiero
JUUL Tones Ensemble Director - joined the staff 2004
Andrea is a lifelong UU who studied music at the San Diego School for Creative and Performing Arts and the University of Redlands. She studied with Gail McKinney (choral music) and Francisco Castillo (oboe/English Horn). She recently completed four years of service on the board of the UU Musicians' Network, which supports music leaders and congregations throughout North America. Andrea directs the JUUL Tones a cappella vocal ensemble here at First UU of San Diego, and also serves as song leader and contributes instrumental music to our services, here and at the South Bay campus. She has been the musical director for several Looking Glass Theatre productions at First UU. She also has a full-time job as a Speech Language Pathologist for a local school district, as a specialist in autism and alternative/augmentative communication. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
JUUL Tones Ensemble Director - joined the staff 2004
Andrea is a lifelong UU who studied music at the San Diego School for Creative and Performing Arts and the University of Redlands. She studied with Gail McKinney (choral music) and Francisco Castillo (oboe/English Horn). She recently completed four years of service on the board of the UU Musicians' Network, which supports music leaders and congregations throughout North America. Andrea directs the JUUL Tones a cappella vocal ensemble here at First UU of San Diego, and also serves as song leader and contributes instrumental music to our services, here and at the South Bay campus. She has been the musical director for several Looking Glass Theatre productions at First UU. She also has a full-time job as a Speech Language Pathologist for a local school district, as a specialist in autism and alternative/augmentative communication. For contact info, see our Ministers and Staff page.
Lexi Pulido
South Bay Music Coordinator - joined the staff 2024
Lexi Pulido is a vocalist, music teacher, composer and owner of Tenam Studio based in San Diego, California. As a In 2019, Pulido released her first self-composed and produced album, Agency, with theatrical alt-jazz quintet, Kilikili. Acting as a dancer and vocalist in Baby Bushka, Pulido works alongside seven powerhouse female musicians to deliver "other-worldly versions" of Kate Bush music "from the ethereal to the bombastic and back again." Pulido plays guitar with a bossa nova-inspired harmonic and rhythmic color palette, accompanying her vocals in fusion jazz duo, Lex and the Jewels, and composing guitar parts for enchanting, indie-folk group, Kaivalya. She studied jazz under the guidance of Grammy award-winning producer, Kamau Kenyatta, and has curated music as host of San Diego's popular jazz fusion jam, Nu Moods at The Quartyard since 2018. She received her B.A. from UCSD in 2015 for Music of Jazz and the African Diaspora, where, in addition to growing her relationship with the many branches of jazz, she discovered her love for the deep treasures of both performance art and Brazilian musical styles. She has since periodically curated performances and workshops to include, Brazilian music concert collaboration with The Danny Green Trio (2017), The Music of Elis Regina (2021), collaborations with The Zicas (2016-17), Kaivalya Sound Meditation Journey at Ginseng Yoga (2019), Jam on Toast Sound Space Workshops (2020), Sound Mark Walk in Birdrock, CA (2020), Supportive characters on Miss Nati’s Music Box (2020), Baby Bushka School of Magic Patreon Content (2021), Soul Challenge at The Template (2021), and Continuum projectblanksd.org (2021).
South Bay Music Coordinator - joined the staff 2024
Lexi Pulido is a vocalist, music teacher, composer and owner of Tenam Studio based in San Diego, California. As a In 2019, Pulido released her first self-composed and produced album, Agency, with theatrical alt-jazz quintet, Kilikili. Acting as a dancer and vocalist in Baby Bushka, Pulido works alongside seven powerhouse female musicians to deliver "other-worldly versions" of Kate Bush music "from the ethereal to the bombastic and back again." Pulido plays guitar with a bossa nova-inspired harmonic and rhythmic color palette, accompanying her vocals in fusion jazz duo, Lex and the Jewels, and composing guitar parts for enchanting, indie-folk group, Kaivalya. She studied jazz under the guidance of Grammy award-winning producer, Kamau Kenyatta, and has curated music as host of San Diego's popular jazz fusion jam, Nu Moods at The Quartyard since 2018. She received her B.A. from UCSD in 2015 for Music of Jazz and the African Diaspora, where, in addition to growing her relationship with the many branches of jazz, she discovered her love for the deep treasures of both performance art and Brazilian musical styles. She has since periodically curated performances and workshops to include, Brazilian music concert collaboration with The Danny Green Trio (2017), The Music of Elis Regina (2021), collaborations with The Zicas (2016-17), Kaivalya Sound Meditation Journey at Ginseng Yoga (2019), Jam on Toast Sound Space Workshops (2020), Sound Mark Walk in Birdrock, CA (2020), Supportive characters on Miss Nati’s Music Box (2020), Baby Bushka School of Magic Patreon Content (2021), Soul Challenge at The Template (2021), and Continuum projectblanksd.org (2021).
Facilities
Ray Evans
Facilities Maintenance Manager - joined the staff in 2013
Ray is a native San Diegan and lives in La Mesa with his wife of 33 years. Ray can be found fixing and maintaining our church campus and watching over our commercial kitchen in the Welcome Center. He loves to offer great Dining for Dollar$ events where he can be found either teaching a cooking class or preparing a lovely gourmet meal. Another love of Ray’s is theatrical lighting design, and he can often be found behind the scenes of our church’s Looking Glass Theater. Ray and his wife have been members of this church for the past four years and were married by Dr. John Ruskin Clark here in our Meeting House in 1980.
Facilities Maintenance Manager - joined the staff in 2013
Ray is a native San Diegan and lives in La Mesa with his wife of 33 years. Ray can be found fixing and maintaining our church campus and watching over our commercial kitchen in the Welcome Center. He loves to offer great Dining for Dollar$ events where he can be found either teaching a cooking class or preparing a lovely gourmet meal. Another love of Ray’s is theatrical lighting design, and he can often be found behind the scenes of our church’s Looking Glass Theater. Ray and his wife have been members of this church for the past four years and were married by Dr. John Ruskin Clark here in our Meeting House in 1980.
Who to contact
For general inquiries call our mail phone line (619) 298-9978
