Rev. Kate Hurst Floyd , Senior Pastor
Kate began her time as Senior Pastor of SSUMC in June of 2019 and is thrilled to be in ministry with this congregation and the wider Sandy Springs community. A lifelong United Methodist, Kate has served in ministry since 2007 with churches in Atlanta, Chicago, and Arlington, VA. She’s passionate about peace with justice, interfaith relationship-building, and sharing God’s unconditional love. In her spare time she enjoys running (slowly), good books and bad TV.
Kate received her B.A. from Rice University in Religious Studies/Gender Studies and her M.Div. from Candler School of Theology with a concentration in Women in Theology in Ministry. She is married to Rev. Dr. Kyle Tau who works as Ecumenical Staff Officer for the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church. They have two young children, Daisy and Sam.
kfloyd@ssumc.org
Rev. Amber Lea Gray, Associate Pastor
I am excited to join in the ministry here at Sandy Springs UMC. I grew up in NW Mississippi and I married my best friend November of 2013. We have two adorable little pups (Leo & Luke) and a cat (Luna). I have a BA in Religion from Carson Newman, a MS in Counseling from the University of Memphis, and a Master of Divinity from Candler School of Theology. Here at Sandy Springs UMC I am going to be working with youth & adult ministries as well as organize Missions & Outreach. For fun I like photography, writing, and taking Zumba classes!
Candace Johnson, MDiv, Minister to Children and Leisure Activities
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, I moved to Atlanta to attend Candler School of Theology at Emory University and graduated with my MDIV in 2008. I couldn’t resist the warm weather and hospitality of Atlanta and am happy to live here now (but still cheer for my Pittsburgh Steelers!). I love getting the chance to explore the stories of our faith with children and their families.
Dr. Nicole Marane - Director of Music
I grew up in Australia (Canberra, Sydney and Adelaide) and have lived in the USA for 17 years now. I went to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY and graduated with my Doctorate of Musical Arts in 2010. I moved to Atlanta in 2008 and enjoy exploring new (to me) parks and restaurants. I have served in music ministry for 29 years, and I am excited to work with the adult choir, children's choir, and handbell choir! If you have any interest in playing or singing in the church, please do not hesitate to reach out to me!
nmarane@ssumc.org
Jenny Byrd, Director of Activities Center and Community Outreach
I grew up in Rome, Georgia, and graduated from the Emory University School of Business in 1979. My husband, Ed, and I have three grown children and we are huge SEC fans. Go Gamecocks!
Ann Hladilek, Administrative Assistant
I am the Administrative Assistant to the program staff at Sandy Springs UMC. It is such a rewarding position to support this team of dynamic and dedicated people. I am thrilled to be on their team!!
Nancy Nadolski, Preschool Director—
I have been privileged to serve the preschool since 2002. It is a blessing to work at SSUMC Preschool & Kindergarten. It is such a joy to see those smiling faces each day and to share Christ’s love with each child.
Lynn Mitchell - Finance Director
lmitchell@ssumc.org