Meet the New Life Staff

Rob Carlson has been the pastor at New Life since 1996. He is married to Dianna and has two children, Erin and Ryan.

As he's related, his greatest thrill about being a pastor is to witness people growing in their spiritual lives and connecting in profound ways with God. "Life is intended to be a journey. It has it's ups and downs; highs and lows. But what makes it all consistent, worthwhile, and leads to fulfillment and satisfaction is dancing the dance that God hardwired into our souls from our very beginning."

Rob is a student of the church and culture, looking to explore the many ways that God impacts the world and calls us to be God's heart, habits, and hands. He recently received his Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California.

 

Terri Beck-Engel Director of Evangelism

Terri and her family have been part of New Life Church for many years and are lifelong Madison residents.  Married to Dave for 25 yrs they have two daughters, Kate and Mackenzie.  Terri and Dave came to New Life Church as an answer to prayer and continue to be awed and amazed by the love and generosity of God expressed through this community of believers. 

Terri's own profound experience of welcome at New Life Church planted a seed that developed into a passion to be part of a culture of welcome for those coming through our church doors.

"It is both humbling and a delight for me to serve side by side with so many folks who so genuinely express God's goodness and invitation through welcoming others in." 

What brings her joy? Loving God, family, friends, the garden, reading, Door County, chocolate, creating, spiritual adventure, women's ministry and, did she say chocolate? 

Education: Master's Social Work / UW-Madison, Mom and Wife-still in training, Disciple of Christ- ongoing!

 

Ann Walsvik Director of Ministries

Ann Walsvik is a lifetime Windsor, Wisconsin native and a member at New Life church with her family since the year 2000. Ann has been married to Rodney for 25 years and they have two boys, Orrie and Luke. The discovery of the New Life church worship community has brought about a continual life-changing journey with God for Ann and her family.

This trek taken with fellow travelers at New Life in search of God has brought alive a passion to share that journey with others. After experiencing, through prayer a calling into ministry, Ann enrolled and continues her education in the Lay School of Ministry through Wartburg Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa and the ELCA South Central Synod of Wisconsin. Ann participates on the Faith Formation Team at New Life, leads worship and assists with the Kingdom Quest education program. She is also a former council member and small group leader. A disciple is a learner and Ann plans to continue to be a disciple of Christ and for Christ to others.

For enjoyment and relaxation Ann loves to read, walk, hike, camp, paddle a canoe, garden, sing and play, especially when she can do them with her family. "When I spend time in God's creation with my family, I cannot help but be filled with wonder and awe at the mysteries of God's kingdom surrounding us"

Fred Jensen Custodian

Fred Jensen, our church custodian, is our "go to guy."  Since retiring from an executive position at a local company, Fred has been our church custodian; something he says he's always wanted to do.
 
He is married to Jackie and has five children. .

Kathy Scholl Adult Choir Director

Kathy Scholl directs the Adult Choir that participates in the 8:00 a.m. Traditional Worship service.  Kathy, her husband Verne and son Jesse have been members of New Life Church since 1998.  She holds a B.A. in Communication from the University of Michigan, where she completed some music history and theory courses, studied flute, and played in the university's Concert Band.  Kathy was involved throughout high school in bands, orchestra, choir, swing choir and musical theater.  Kathy is employed as a Communications Specialist-Senior for a Wisconsin state agency.  At New Life, Kathy has served on Council, the Communications Team, Stewardship Team, and as assistant to the Choir Director.  She felt a strong calling from God to step up and continue the important ministry of the Adult Choir.  "The Choir is an integral part of the first service on Sunday mornings, leading the congregation with hymns and parts of the service."