Meet Our Team
Here you'll get to know the talented individuals who make up our team and lead SUMC with grace and dignity. We hope you can learn a little about them and their dedication to SUMC. We're proud to introduce you to just a few of the people behind our church's success.

Senior Pastor
Ron Hayes
I was born and raised in Iowa with my wife and high school sweetheart, Julie. We attended Iowa State University together before beginning corporate careers that took us all around the country. Following my long stint in the corporate world, I answered a Call to Ministry starting with seminary studies at Phillips Theological Seminary. Before joining the SUMC family, I served as the Associate Pastor at Rogers FUMC and Lead Pastor at FUMC Bella Vista. Julie and I have two sons, the best daughters-in-law, and four grandchildren we love spending time with. I also enjoy fishing and occasionally something resembling a golf game. ​

Administrative Assistant
Tricia Stuber
I have worked for SUMC since January 2015. I graduated from Indiana Business College as Valedictorian with an Associate's Degree in Accounting. My husband Mark and I have been married for over 32 years and we have a daughter and a son. Along with a dog, two cats, and a grandcat, we also have chickens. I love animals and nature. In my free time I enjoy reading, watching sports, going on walks and hiking.

Children's Ministry
Carla Anderson
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Childhood Education from the University of Arkansas, where I met my husband, Mike. Married in 1992, we spent 26 years navigating military life during Mike’s service in the U.S. Army while raising our four children, all University of Arkansas graduates, which eventually brought our family back to the area. My faith has been a steady anchor throughout my life and ministry. I am passionate about helping children grow in their faith and experience God’s love in meaningful, age-appropriate ways, while partnering with parents in the discipleship of their children. Outside of ministry, I enjoy cooking, gardening, crafting, cheering on the Razorbacks, loving all things Christmas, and being “Lala” to my grandchildren.

Music Director
Tim Cox
I am a retired public school music teacher of 21 years and have been a church musician for 50 years. I've been at SUMC for over 20 years. I graduated with a Bachelor's in Education from Missouri Southern State University and a Master's from the University of Arkansas. My wife Martha and I have three sons together. I also currently play with the Saxophonics.

Pianist - Chancel Choir/11:00 am Worship
Martha Cox
I graduated with a Bachelor's in Music Education from Missouri Southern State University. I am a retired public school orchestra teacher of 29 years and currently teach piano and strings from my home studio. My husband Tim and I have three sons and two precious schnauzers, Spinner and Max. In my free time, I love getting lunch with friends, going to the movies, and reading.

Pianist - 8:30am Worship
Mark Smidt
I have served as pianist and organist at SUMC for over 20 years. I received a Bachelor’s in Music from John Brown University and a Master's of Music from the U of A. I filled a collaborative pianist position at the U of A before serving as Program Director and Piano Instructor at the university’s Suzuki Music School. I also established a private piano teaching studio where I was able to gain a reputation for producing award-winning students over the last two decades. I am an avid reader and enjoy gardening, biking, cooking, and traveling in my free time.

Youth Director
Amber Scott
Originally from Scott County, I have called Northwest Arkansas home for the past 26 years. I grew up in the Church of the Nazarene and have been active in United Methodist churches for the past 17 years. I am married to my husband, Lynn, and we have three children, including twins who attend the University of Arkansas, as well as two dogs, Ellie and Bart. I hold an MBA, have experience in credit and nonprofit work, and am a certified Spiritual Director through SMU Perkins. I am also a 200-hour certified vinyasa and restorative yoga instructor. I am passionate about mentoring and guiding others in their faith journey, and I enjoy nature, travel, live music, yoga, cooking, and time with family and friends.

Social Media Manager
Ashley Brink
I graduated in May of 2024 from the University of Central Arkansas with a Bachelor's in Health Sciences and minor in Accounting. I am currently pursuing my Doctorate Degree in Occupational Therapy also at UCA. I have attended SUMC my whole life and have a passion for serving my community. Outside of school and work, I enjoy reading, playing sports, volunteering, and spending time with my friends and family.

Financial Assistant
Becca Price
I am originally from Hanover, New Hampshire. After earning my Bachelor’s degree from Colby
College in Waterville, Maine, I headed south! I have worked in many arenas, some of which are wedding photographer, therapy dog owner,
dean’s assistant, and business owner. The Pumpkin Patch drew me to Sequoyah United Methodist Church, and I have enjoyed being a part of it since 2006. In the fall of 2025 I became the financial assistant. I have one daughter and a golden retriever. I love being outside and became a Master Naturalist in 2023. I also enjoy gardening, hiking, reading, and cooking.
Looking to Join Our Team?
Check out our 'Join Our Team' page for current job opportunities!
