First Congregational UCC Menomonie, WI
Leadership
Staff
Rev Rene Mehlberg
Ordained Minister
Thank-you to all who attended my Installation Service, watched online, kept our congregation and me in prayer on my installation day. It was a very celebratory and Holy Spirit filled morning complete with special music (thank-you Bell & Chancel Choirs!), love, laughter, food, and joy!
Thank-you to all who made the day special, not only for me, but for us all. During the months without a sheepdog, The Shepherd watched over you and kept you going.
I continue to be thankful, grateful, and blessed to be here. Things are happening! As Jeremiah says,
“The joy of the Lord is my strength.” We’ll keep listening as God is still speaking, and then continue the work of living and loving like Jesus.
With a full heart, Pastor René pastor@menomonieucc.org
Karen Miller
Director of Faith Formation
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As our Director of Faith Formation, Karen is responsible for shaping educational programming for people of all ages, supervising our Youth Program Coordinator, and maintaining our Safe Church policies and practices. Until her first “retirement,” Karen worked as a planning analyst and an advocate for at-risk youth. A member of the Stockbridge Munsee nation, Karen brings her Native American traditions and understanding into powerful conversations with Christian faith and practice.
Oxana Khramova
Office Manager & Organist
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Oxana Khramova is both our Organist and our Office Manager! As Organist, we have been delighted with Oxana’s skill and beautiful selections of music for worship! Oxana received her Doctor of Musical Arts degree (Piano Performance and Pedagogy) in 2017 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Oxana enjoys sharing her gift of music with the Menomonie community, especially with those who attend UCC worship services. Office Manager As Office Manager, Oxana's excellent computer and organizational skills shine! Oxana manages the office with a keen eye for efficiency, safety, security and accuracy. She is our hub for email and publications, room reservations, and much more.
Gail Skamfer
Custodian
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A longtime member of First Congregational UCC, Gail stepped in as our custodian a few years ago. We are delighted to have her on our team when she is not off on a vacation! Gail has an infectious sense of humor and a detailed eye for needed cleaning and repairs. She is a retired golf course manager and a wonderful woodworker.​
Dean Langby
Music Director
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Dean Langby has regularly attended First Congregational since 2021 and enjoys bringing special music to this progressive congregation. He has been teaching cello and violin privately in Menomonie and Eau Claire for the past 20 years and has been a cellist with symphony orchestras throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin his whole adult life, most recently with the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra. His interests include walking with his wife Leah, gardening, meditating and leading a monthly Irish music session in Eau Claire.
Dominique Stewart
Chancel Choir Director
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The choir is delighted to welcome Dominique as our part-time director! Dominique grew up in Menomonie, has been a music teacher, and serves on the Menomonie School Board. She is also a member of Trio Viva where she plays violin!​
Cathie Weissman
Bell Choir Director
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Cathie has been our dedicated Bell Choir Director for 20+ years! She manages the music, adapting to the size and skill of the choir from year to year. Cathie creates a welcoming place for newbies, and to connect around music. We're grateful for Cathie's commitment and longevity with us!
Amy Riddle-Swanson
Livestream Coordinator
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Amy is an active member of our church and community. When she's not in the tech nest, livestreaming worship, she chairs the Open & Affirming Committee, is a friend to all, and serves on the Menomonie school board. In her working days, Amy served in supportive roles as a guidance counselor in public schools, and in Student Support Services as an Academic Coach. She recently retired from UW River Falls. technology@menomonieucc.org
Council Leadership 2025-26
Executive Committee
Moderator Team: Andrew Mercil, Past Moderator; Jeanne Rothaupt, Moderator; Rick Nagler, Vice Moderator.
Treasurer: Tom Schmelzle
Clerk: Jill Schwebs
Deacons
Care Ministries: Margi Stauss
Christian Education: Melissa Kluge
Membership-Fellowship: Luci Black
Mission for Peace & Justice: Agnes Welsch
Music: Deanna Schultz
Property: Lee Theorin
Stewardship: Sherry Galetka
Worship: Kathy Colvin