Announcing Key Leadership Promotions!

I’m exited to share a few important personnel updates at The Root Cellar.

Alyssa McKay, Director in Lewiston (and baby James)

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching strong leaders grow from within this ministry. One of the real joys of this work is seeing people serve faithfully, love their neighbors well, and step into greater responsibility with humility, wisdom, and conviction. That is certainly true of Alyssa McKay, Vicky Crouse, and Myra Ashley Woodard.

I’m pleased to share that Alyssa McKay is being promoted to Director of Programs in Lewiston. Alyssa has been a steady, joyful, deeply relational leader in Lewiston for years. After coming to Bates from San Diego, she found that Jesus and the kids of downtown Lewiston captured her heart, and she never really looked back. She has given herself wholeheartedly to the work of mentoring, discipleship, and loving families in the neighborhood. Alyssa leads with both a strong sense of resilience and hope, and she carries a real love for Lewiston that is contagious. As she often says, “I just love the Lew!” Alyssa and her husband Jared live in Auburn with their four boys, and I’m thankful for the leadership she will continue to bring in this new role.

Vicky Crouse, Director of Operations

I’m also glad to share that Vicky Crouse is stepping into the role of Director of Operations for the entire organization. Vicky has already been serving in ways that have helped strengthen our systems, support our staff, and bring greater clarity and consistency to our work. She is thoughtful, dependable, and committed to helping us be wise stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us. This expanded role reflects both her ability and her value to the organization, and I’m excited for the ways her leadership will continue to benefit both Lewiston and Portland.

Myra Ashley Woodard, Programs Manager in Portland

And in Portland, Myra Ashley Woodard is being promoted to Program Manager. Myra Ashley and her husband Levi moved to Portland in 2022 to support a local church, and soon after, she began volunteering with The Root Cellar’s English program. It did not take long for her to become deeply connected to the mission and to the people we serve. Since joining our staff in 2023 as English Program Coordinator, she has served students and families from all over the world with gentleness, excellence, and genuine care. Myra Ashley brings a thoughtful presence and a love for people that has already made a meaningful impact in Portland, and I’m grateful to see her step further into leadership.

These are not just staffing changes. They are signs of healthy growth, faithful service, and God’s kindness to The Root Cellar. I’m thankful for each of these women, for the ways they have already served, and for the leadership they will bring in this next season.

Please join me in congratulating Alyssa, Vicky, and Myra Ashley!