Dear Colleagues,

Before anything else, we invite you to watch this short video message from Search Committee Co-Chairs Carol Thomas Cissel and Sarah Lenzi sharing exciting news about the future leadership of the UUMA.

We are delighted to share this announcement with the membership and look forward to welcoming our new Director of Ministries and Programs into this next chapter of leadership in the association. Within the enclosed annual meeting packet, you will find a fuller announcement, along with additional information about the search process and our new co-director’s ministry and experience.

We are also pleased to share the materials for the 2026 UUMA Annual Meeting, which will be held virtually on June 2 and June 4. Enclosed you will find the agenda, reports, bylaw revisions, nominating slate, and other supporting materials related to this year’s meeting and the ongoing work of the association. Please note that each day we will have opportunities to gather collegially around important topics in our ministry (Day one we will take time to engage our Strategic Priorities and Day two to gather around the UUA’s Transition Review Task Force, GA Resolutions, and Widening the Path to Ministry). 

This year’s packet reflects the thoughtful work of the Board of Trustees and its committees. Within these materials you will find reports that reflect ongoing attention to governance, collegial care, accountability, financial stewardship, anti-oppression work, leadership development, and the future of ministry within the UUMA and the wider UU community.

We are deeply grateful to the Search Committee, Widening the Circle Committee, Strategic Partners Committee, and Nominating Committee, and all who have contributed their time, wisdom, and care to the life of the association this year. Their work — much of which is reflected throughout this packet — continues to strengthen and sustain our shared ministry together. During the Annual Meeting, we will also have the opportunity to thank those completing their service on the Board of Trustees and Nominating Committee and to welcome new leaders into these important roles.

This year’s gathering will also begin our wider celebration of Melissa Carvill Ziemer and her ministry among us. We encourage you to read the packet carefully for additional details, including opportunities to gather in celebration (Please mark your calendar: June 14 Virtual Celebration and June 19 Louisville Reception).

We encourage you to read these materials carefully prior to May 27, the deadline for submitting amendments and resolutions and to join the Board Dialogue Session on May 29, which will provide an opportunity for conversation and questions in advance of the Annual Meeting.

We thank you for your attention at this busy time and look forward to gathering with you in June.

In Collegiality and Gratitude,
Robin Tanner, UUMA President
Janette M. Lallier, Co-Executive Director for Operations & Finance
Melissa Carvill Ziemer, Co-Executive Director for Programs & Ministries