Our Minister & Staff

Rev. Heather Rion Starr

Our Minister, Rev. Heather Rion Starr, joined us in August 2021. The Installation Service to celebrate Rev. Heather as UUSD’s Settled Minister took place on March 27, 2022. She is a 2005 graduate of Starr King School for the Ministry. With two decades of experience in ministry and an entire lifetime informed and inspired by Unitarian Universalism, Rev. Heather has a deep well of zest for this work. Continued

Children’s Faith Exploration Director
Dr. Heather A. Hamilton

Dr. Heather A. Hamilton joined the staff in January 2024 and brings more than 20 years of experience as an educator, musician, and program leader. Known for her dynamic leadership, creativity, and deep commitment to inclusive community building, she has cultivated a distinguished career at the intersection of education, music, and faith formation. Continued

Director of Music Ministries
Julie KeeferJulie Keefer

Julie Keefer joined UUSD as our Director of Music Ministries on October 8, 2018. She comes from a rich and diverse musical background with over 25 years of choral and worship experience. She currently serves as the Choral and Music Director at the Milford High School. Her prior experience includes serving as the Praise Team Music Director at Epworth United Methodist Church. Continued

Congregational Administrator
Norma Eckard

Norma Eckard serves as the Congregational Administrator for the Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware (UUSD), where she brings a unique blend of professional expertise, lived experience, and deep-rooted commitment to service. Continued

Transitional Facilities Pointperson
Cheri Garnet

Cheri Garnet came to UUSD as a Visitor and discovered her spiritual home. About that experience, she says: “l felt like I had walked into a warm pool of water!” She is grateful to be a Member of this community. In this Transitional Facilities Pointperson role, Cheri will be working to help clarify the responsibilities and qualifications of the permanent Facilities Pointperson position for future advertising to the larger region. Continued

Lead Audiovisual (AV) Technician
Brian Tootle

Brian Tootle serves as the Lead A/V Specialist for the Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware, where he oversees the Sunday Service livestream and in‑house audio experience. A longtime Delaware resident, Brian brings a blend of technical expertise, creativity, and calm problem‑solving to every service. Continued

Nursery Care Provider
Devon Lovegrove

Devon loves creating calm, caring spaces where children feel safe, seen, and supported as they play and grow. She has experience caring for children in various settings and finds so much joy in their curiosity and creativity. Outside of the nursery, Devon enjoys painting, practicing yoga and Pilates, and spending time in nature—especially at the beach. She looks forward to getting to know our UUSD families and being part of our thoughtful and welcoming community.