Cynthia Westby comes to us with a rich and diverse background that includes curriculum development, program administration, mindfulness coaching, and teaching children and adults in a variety of settings. Cynthia is an active member of the Seattle Storyteller’s Guild has been involved with Shoreline UU where she shared her storytelling gifts with the congregation. She also has studied and taught animal tracking and wildlife stewardship and she has a Master’s degree in Theology and the Arts.

She brings a focus on healthy communication and the importance of listening to people of all ages, as well as strong administrative and program management skills. But we are most struck by Cynthia’s passion for sparking inquiry and awareness in children: in the interview process she shared that igniting children’s passion for religious exploration and awakening their curiosity for what is meaningful for them would be deeply rewarding and in service to her calling. Cynthia will officially start as our new DRE on July 1st. We are so excited to welcome Cynthia to Westside!