Our Staff
Peter Hawkinson
Senior Pastor
Peter has served at WCC for many years after seasons of pastoral ministry in Seattle and Minneapolis. He and Wife Bonnie are parents of three grown daughters. Peter enjoys music of all sorts and especially live concerts, golfing with friends, and spending time with his yellow lab, Bear.
Jen Christianson
Associate Pastor
Pastor Jen grew up on the East Coast, where she first grew to love the outdoors and being on the water. These days, she adores camping, reading, baking, and doing anything with her rescue dog Zoe. Pastor Jen especially enjoys studying and learning in small groups at church, and focusing on spiritual practices.
Lynnea Miller
Youth Pastor
Lynnea grew up in Batavia, IL and now lives in Chicago where she is working towards her Master of Divinity degree at North Park Theological Seminary. She serves as youth pastor here at Winnetka Covenant where she is privileged to spend time with and minister to the wonderful students of this church through youth groups and Confirmation. When she's not at youth group or studying Greek, Lynnea likes to explore new coffee shops in the city, watch the Chicago Bears, play music, and bake.
Art Nelson
Pastor Emeritus
Art’s Covenant ministry spans more than 50 years. He grew up in the greater Chicago area, attending North Park Academy, University and Seminary. He was WCC’s senior pastor from 1967 to 1986, overseeing the fundraising and construction of our current facility and sanctuary. Currently, he is a board member of Ministry Mentors, which he also chaired, coaching ministers around the country. Art has been married to his wife Laurel for more than 60 years. They have three children and eight grandchildren.
Judi Geake
Spiritual Direction and
Small Group Ministries
After 20 years as executive director of a not-for-profit women's organization, Judi returned to North Park Theological Seminary for a Certificate in Spiritual Direction. In addition to providing individuals with spiritual companionship, her love of bringing people together is evidenced in the several small groups she leads for the church and the many opportunities for fellowship she provides at her dining room table. Judi has been a member of WCC for over 40 years.
Susan Lofton
Administrative Assistant and
Office Manager
Susan is a native of Glen Ellyn, Illinois who transplanted to Evanston in 2012. She has enjoyed a long career as a professional vocalist and recording artist and performs regularly in the North Shore with several music projects. Her entrepreneurial spirit has taken her from apartment rehabilitation, restauranteur & catering to teaching music grades K- 8 at a Blue Ribbon award winning elementary school in Chinatown, Chicago. When not singing, Susan’s favorite hobbies are spending time with a good book or walking by the lake.
Tom Tropp
Director of Music
Tom Tropp joined the WCC staff in 2024 with several decades of music ministry and teaching experience. In addition to his duties at WCC, he is also on the music faculty at North Park University. When not in the classroom or rehearsal room, he can usually be found on a lake (preferably in a boat), at Wrigley Field, or in his home workshop, where he rebuilds and restores grand pianos.
Zoe Larson
Web/ Social Media Coordinator
Zoe grew up in Hinsdale, IL. and she went to North Park University where she graduated with a degree in Art, Graphic Design. She worked at Covenant Point for many summers, and interned there for three years after college. She loves making art, playing hockey, and her dog.
Misse Kaat
Children and Family Ministry
Co-Coordinator
Misse is passionate about creating a space for kids and families to make lasting connections in the church and beyond. At home, she lives with her husband, Aaron, their four kids and their dog, Liberty. She is honored to be a part of the excitement at WCC!
Kari Lindahl
Children and Family Ministry
Co-Coordinator
Kari grew up in Omaha, Nebraska and attended North Park University where she met her husband, John. They currently live in Skokie with their three kids. During her free time, Kari enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing games, working out, drinking coffee, and watching sports.
Mirela Hukic
Coordinator of Church Finances
Mirela is our Coordinator for Church Finances. Her primary responsibilities are accounts payable, payroll, and taxes. She lives in Jefferson Park with her husband and twin sons. She enjoys solving a challenging math problem.