UCCF, the campus ministry serving several schools in Grand Rapids, welcomes a new director, Pastor Laurie Kenyon Woods.
The board of United Campus Christian Fellowship (UCCF) is pleased to announce the hiring of Pastor Laurie Kenyon Woods as the new director and campus minister. UCCF is a multi-denominational campus ministry present at Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Valley State University, and Kendall College of Art and Design.
UCCF is one of the campus ministries supported by the Michigan Conference through the generous support of Ministry Shares from local United Methodist churches. Other ministry partners include the Episcopal Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Pastor Laurie Kenyon Woods brings a deep love for ministry and a heart for young adults, with years of experience serving congregations in Wisconsin and North Carolina. She is passionate about walking alongside students through the ups and downs of life, and about building communities marked by grace, inclusion, and joy.
A native of Kalamazoo, Laurie is glad to be back in Michigan and especially excited to call Grand Rapids home. She has lived in many interesting places and loves exploring new things — whether that’s a local coffee shop, an art show, live music, or a yoga studio. At home, she shares life with her also-pastor husband, an energetic toddler, and a very sweet dog.
Laurie also loves to read (especially fantasy) and finds joy in long hikes, exploring national and state parks, and spending time outdoors. She is convinced the Great Lakes are better than the ocean and treasures every chance to be near the water.
Pastor Laurie’s first day at UCCF was November 19, 2025. The campus ministry board and the students welcome her and look forward to this new season of ministry.
Across three campuses in Grand Rapids, United Campus Christian Fellowship (UCCF) nurtures young adults spiritually through weekly Bible study, worship, and prayer; physically by providing food at each Open Table meal; and emotionally by fostering friendships and building lasting community.