Staffing Changes at the Foundation & DevCo

February 27, 2024 (Glen Allen, VA) – The Virginia United Methodist Foundation (VAUMF) is pleased to announce two staffing changes to their team. The Rev. Chris Allen of Tampa, Fla., will start March 31, 2025, in the new role of vice president of lending and investments.

Mr. Allen has a Master of Divinity degree from Duke University and recently completed his MBA at Hough University in Gainesville, Fla. Since 2017, he has served as the executive pastor of Horizons Church, a new parish targeting the growing millennial family population in South Tampa. Rev. Allen was also a member of the investment committee managing $169 million in assets for the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church.

“Chris is a wonderful addition to our Foundation staff, and I am excited for him to get to work with our churches and customers,” David Dommisse, Virginia Conference treasurer and interim Foundation president, said. “In addition to his investment knowledge, Chris brings his understanding of church finances and the issues our churches are facing today. This unique blend of skill and experience will make him a valuable resource for the entire Annual Conference.”

Courtney Howell is also promoted to vice president of operations. Before joining the staff of the Foundation in 2018, Ms. Howell spent more than two decades in the financial industry, including four years as a compliance officer overseeing up to 22 branch offices of a leading bank. She has extensive experience in creating and implementing policy and procedures, loan processes, banking regulations and customer service standards. During her financial career, Ms. Howell held a Virginia life and annuities license, as well as series 6 and 63 certifications.

“Courtney has been instrumental in establishing operational policies and controls in both our Foundation and the Virginia United Methodist Development Company,” Dommisse said. “And she has done this while providing the Foundation’s customers with the best possible customer service. This promotion is well earned.”

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The Foundation is a supporting organization of the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church (VAUMC) and is dedicated to serving all districts within the VAUMC. Its relationships with the conference, clergy and laity are key to the success of fulfilling the mission God has bestowed upon the foundation, your faithful partner in stewarding God’s entrusted resources.