Meet Our
Church Leaders
Senior Pastor
Rev. Rick Uhls
Pastor Rick Uhls is a United Methodist pastor who has been appointed to Shepherd of the Hills UMC since July 2021. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. Pastor Rick has previously served churches in Simi Valley, Lake Elsinore, Moorpark, Long Beach, Redondo Beach,
and San Luis Obispo.
Director of Discipleship & Operations
Sam Nason
Sam began serving at Shepherd of the Hills UMC as the Director of Discipleship in 2022 and as the Director of Operations in 2024. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and is pursuing a Masters in Theology & Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary. Sam heads up our youth program, supervises Children's Ministry, and leads our communications and facilities departments.
Treasurer
Nelly Vickroy
Nelly began serving as treasurer at Shepherd in 2023. She brings a strong background in education, having previously worked as a mathematics and engineering teacher. Nelly has a B.S. in Mathematics and a Master of Education in Special Education, equipping her with both analytical and interpersonal skills that support her work in church finance and administration.
Office Manager
Alicia Riding
Alicia oversees our PushPay/MyShepherd databases, helps with scheduling church events, and oversees onsite non-church related events. She has a B.A. in Business and Economics with a minor in English. Alicia has worked both in the corporate world and at various non-profits in the area. Alicia and her family have been active members of Shepherd for nearly 20 years.
Worship Arts Coordinator
Schehera McKasson
Schehera serves as the volunteer worship arts coordinator at Shepherd, where she joyfully brings her passion for music and the arts into meaningful worship experiences. During the week, she is the Upper School Director at Stratford School Mission Viejo, overseeing students in grades 4-8. Schehera finds great joy in helping others use their creative gifts to glorify God.
Worship Leader
Philip Bardowell
Philip has been leading modern worship at Shepherd of the Hills UMC since 2012. He has a long history in the music industry, including backing Jan and Dean and touring with the Beach Boys. In addition to leading worship, Philip writes and records music and has released several albums. Philip expanded his ministry when he became an RN in 2020 and enjoys serving as a caregiver at Mission Hospital.
