Polaris Leadership Fellows
The Polaris Young Adult Leadership Network’s inaugural fellowship program launched in 2023 and we have since welcomed three remarkable cohorts. Fellows participate in a year-long leadership acceleration program designed to build relationships with one another and strengthen leadership in their local context. They benefit from resources including funding to support or launch a local project, coaching, spiritual direction, and opportunities to visit and learn from leaders who inspire them. The fellowship experience begins with a Fall in-person Opening Retreat on campus at Princeton Theological Seminary and the programmatic year concludes with another in-person Closing Retreat. Each fellowship cohort consists of a select number of individuals nominated by ministry partners across the nation and representing a diverse denominational ecology.
Polaris Fellowship 2025 Members
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Anna G. Guerrero
Anna, who goes by Gaby, was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a Bachelor of Arts in theological studies. Most recently, she earned her Master of Divinity from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology. Her research focuses on reinterpreting Scripture and Catholic tradition in ways that uplift women. She has worked for Catholic organizations such as America magazine, Emory’s Aquinas Center, and the Holy See’s diplomatic office in Vienna, Austria. She is currently the youth minister at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Decatur, Georgia, where her vocation manifests in empowering teenage girls. An ardent supporter of the Atlanta Hawks and the owner of three rescue animals — two black cats and a small dog — Gabby loves hot yoga, playing Dungeons & Dragons, and cooking for her loved ones.
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Abby Butler-Cefalo
Abby Butler-Cefalo
Abby is a passionate cat mom, seminarian, associate pastor and friend. She also works for the Baltimore-Washington Conference and Peninsula-Delaware Conference as their congregational vitality coordinator. In her spare time, you can probably find her at SoulCycle, with her beloved cat, Nutmeg, and husband, or at a local coffee shop making friends with whoever wants to talk. Abby loves caffeine in all forms, especially when she can share it with friends. She enjoys cooking, laughing and being around people.
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Austin Winter
Austin Winter
Austin is a Colorado-based leader dedicated to helping individuals flourish in their careers, communities, and spiritual lives. He holds a master’s degree in leadership from Denver Seminary. He brings a strong background in the business world, where he equips leaders to make data-informed decisions with clarity and confidence. Beyond his professional work, Austin is passionate about fostering meaningful conversations. He often leads discussions within his church community and hosts “brain trust” gatherings with close friends to explore thought-provoking questions about the Church and its evolving role in the world. Austin and his wife are building a life rooted in purpose, beauty, and joy. Whether playing a lively game of volleyball, engaging in deep conversations, or simply enjoying the outdoors, he values every chance to connect with others and savor the present moment.
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Caleb Encinas Cortés
Caleb Encinas Cortés
Caleb serves as the Pastor of Community Engagement at Federal Way United Methodist Church, where he connects the congregation with the larger community, especially those most vulnerable. His ministry is rooted in a strong dedication to combining justice and faith. Originally from the borderlands between San Diego and Tijuana, Caleb moved to Washington eight years ago. He earned his Master of Divinity from Seattle Pacific Seminary in 2022. Now he lives and works in Federal Way, Washington with his wife, Madisynn, and their beloved bunny, Thumper. Outside of ministry, Caleb enjoys trying delicious vegan foods and powerlifting.
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Henri Shemar Abrams
Henri Shemar Abrams
Henri is a native of Thomasville, Georgia, and currently lives in Austin, Texas, where he is pursuing a doctorate in Sports Management through the Physical Culture and Sports program at the University of Texas. Passionate about faith, leadership, and the transformative power of sports, Henri brings a unique blend of academic insight and community engagement to all he does. He serves as the Young Adult Coordinator at David Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, where he leads weekly Bible studies and organizes fellowship activities that foster connection and spiritual growth among young adults. Henri is also the head middle school tennis coach at Hill Country Christian School, where he mentors student-athletes both on and off the court. With a long-term goal of becoming a collegiate athletic director, Henri is committed to equipping young athletes to translate the skills they develop in sports into thriving professional and personal lives.
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Ihsan Walker
Ihsan Walker
Ihsan is a dynamic professional whose career bridges law, ministry, and community development. With a rich background in youth and adult ministry across churches in Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, Ihsan brings a deep commitment to service, teaching, and pastoral care. He has extensive experience in youth workforce development, education, and mentorship, and has worked across local government, nonprofit, and private sectors. His expertise includes diversity training, collaborative leadership, and collective impact strategies—all grounded in a practical, real-world approach that centers on equity, authenticity, and transformative community engagement. Currently, Ihsan serves as an attorney at Bricker Graydon in Cincinnati, Ohio. Known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, he continues to be a trusted voice in both professional and faith-based circles. Outside of work, Ihsan enjoys singing, traveling, and spending time with his wife, Joy, and their Bernedoodle, Milo.
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Israel David Carranza
Israel David Carranza
Israel is a missionary serving with Iskali, an organization dedicated to empowering young Latino Catholics to grow in their faith and leadership within their Church and communities. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Israel’s roots trace back to Guatemala and Mexico, where his parents met through a local nun. His faith journey began at age 14—a path marked by challenges, growth, and transformation. Through ongoing spiritual formation and maturity, Israel has come to deeply know God’s love and purpose for his life.
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Jerica Robinson
Jerica Robinson
Jerica is a purpose-driven public health leader, systems thinker, and equity advocate who brings heart, strategy, and passion to every endeavor. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, she currently serves as a Program Manager at a healthcare nonprofit dedicated to closing health equity gaps in Black communities. Jerica is also the founder of a social impact consulting firm that helps mission-driven organizations translate bold ideas into action through community-rooted, equity-centered strategies. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Xavier University (Go Musketeers!) with a focus on health services administration and minors in business, human resources, and gender & diversity studies. She holds a Master of Public Health from Saint Louis University and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Public Health at Tulane University. Grounded in her Christian faith, Jerica leads with strategic compassion and joyful conviction, committed to building a more just, healthy, and hope-filled world.
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Jewel Koshy
Jewel Koshy
Jewel is an aspiring physician assistant and public health professional with a strong foundation in biology, holding a B.S. from Southeastern University. She is the founder of Our Health Advocate, a digital platform dedicated to educating individuals on self-advocacy and equipping them to navigate the healthcare system with confidence. With a vision to transform this work into a nonprofit, Jewel is deeply committed to addressing healthcare disparities and expanding its impact across underserved communities. With over a decade of ministry experience, Jewel is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where people can connect, grow, and thrive. Her work is rooted in faith and fueled by a desire to bridge the gap between healthcare and diverse populations. In her free time, you’ll find her experimenting with new recipes, jamming to music with friends, or discovering new cities one coffee shop at a time.
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Jordan Lopez
Jordan Lopez
Jordan is a proud native of East Charlotte, North Carolina, where he was raised alongside his sister by a devoted mother who instilled in them the values of compassion, integrity, and dedication. A product of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Jordan credits his educators and community mentors with shaping his deep-rooted passion for public service. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude with a Master of Public Administration from North Carolina Central University. In a historic achievement, Jordan assumed public office at the age of 26, becoming the youngest Black man elected to the North Carolina State House since the Reconstruction era—and the youngest Democrat currently serving in the General Assembly. Jordan continues to be a tireless advocate for equity, youth empowerment, and community advancement across the state he proudly calls home.
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Joseph Cruz Menchaca
Joseph Cruz Menchaca
Joseph is a pastoral intern at Mission Church in Tucson, Arizona—a community created as a refuge for the spiritually wounded and the spiritually curious. He is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Missional Theology through the Missional Training Center, while also serving in various local and denominational leadership roles across the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA) and the Reformed Church in America (RCA). Deeply passionate about bridging generational, cultural, and religious divides, Cruz facilitates men’s mental health groups and leads book clubs that explore gospel-centered frameworks within secular contexts. His ministry is shaped by a calling to share the restorative hope of Christ, especially in unexpected places. In his free time, Cruz enjoys backpacking, hiking, cultivating online communities, and playing tabletop games.
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Julianne Hall Ross
Julianne Hall Ross
Julianne is an aspiring hospital chaplain with a deep passion for healthcare ministry. Originally from just north of Chicago, she is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity through the hybrid program at Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Candler has played a vital role in her spiritual and ministerial formation as a Christian leader. Julianne has completed four units of ACPE-accredited Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) through an internship in Chicago and a residency in metro Denver. Though her path into chaplaincy has been unconventional, she is profoundly grateful for the journey and the ways it has shaped her call to serve in healthcare settings. In her free time, Julianne enjoys running, reading, and unwinding with sports and reality TV—her favorite guilty pleasure.
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Liana Forss
Liana Forss
Liana (she/they) is a dynamic leader committed to following God’s call—wherever it leads. From growing up in Canada to studying in Oklahoma and Texas, and performing in New York City and around the world, Liana brings a global perspective to their work at the intersection of art, justice, and faith. With an academic background in human rights, medical anthropology, and dance, Liana is passionate about building communities of healing through sacred storytelling and right relationship with power. Before touring with the Step One Dance Company, they served as a doula, cared for children as a nanny, and organized in support of a free Palestine in New York City.
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Lindsay “Lulu” Sapigao
Lindsay “Lulu” Sapigao
Lulu (she/siya) is a lifelong United Methodist deeply rooted in the Filipino and queer communities. She currently serves as a case manager at FirstPres Hayward, where she supports unhoused neighbors with compassion, dignity, and practical resources. Lulu lives in an intentional Christian community at Heirloom East Bay—a farm where hospitality, sustainability, and creativity shape everyday life. Ask her about making goat milk soup! She also serves as Co-Chair of the Associate Board at Covenant House California, where she advocates for youth experiencing homelessness. Most recently, Lulu launched Living Well, a nature-based wellness program centered on healing, rest, and reconnection. Whether she’s playing mahjong, tie-dyeing, vibing hip hop, or practicing yoga and dance, Lulu brings joy, presence, and care to everything she does.
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Marina Elizabeth Hanna
Marina Elizabeth Hanna
Marina is a marketing and innovation professional whose mission is “to create products and systems which make life better for everyone”. From 2020-2023 she led C’EST LA Beauty Company Inc., as founder and product developer, creating sustainable, ethically sourced skincare products. Currently, Marina does digital marketing strategy and trial procurement for a multi-site clinical research network. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (Christian Apologetics Concentration) from Tyndale University, where she also serves on the Board of Governors. Marina grew up in Elmhurst, Illinois, until her family moved to Toronto when she was 13. She now splits her time between Toronto and her family in New Jersey, where she is a member of the Coptic Orthodox Church of the Resurrection (CCRES). She volunteers there doing web design and worship music. Marina’s passionate about social justice, mental health, theology, and philosophy. In her free time, she enjoys songwriting, cake decorating, and falling down rabbit holes on YouTube.
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Mary Joy Wytsma
Mary Joy Wytsma
Mary Joy grew up surrounded by the natural beauty of Oregon and has recently established new roots in Washington, D.C. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and leadership with a minor in Mandarin Chinese, as well as a master’s degree in social justice from Kilns College. From an early age, Mary Joy knew her greatest passion was pursuing work dedicated to the common good. She now fulfills this calling as communications coordinator at a nonprofit organization focused on equipping communities for peacemaking and conflict transformation. Deeply committed to justice, equity, and environmental stewardship, Mary Joy prioritizes learning from diverse perspectives and life experiences. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing salsa and bachata—finding community and joy through movement across the city.
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Owen Copps
Owen Copps
Owen recently moved from Telluride, Colorado, to Austin, Texas to begin divinity school at the Seminary of the Southwest. From 2021 to 2024, he served as the director of children, youth, and young adult ministries at St. Michael’s in Colorado Springs. During his time there, Owen co-facilitated Gather: Pikes Peak for multiple years as he is particularly energized by ecumenical young adult ministry. Grounded in the belief that all people are beloved children of God, Owen stays nourished through community, Ignatian spiritual practices, and experiencing the divine in creation. When he’s not serving in ministry, you can find him on the ski slopes, paddling whitewater, or playing volleyball nearby.
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Sabina Pappu
Sabina Pappu
Sabina was born in the United States and raised in North India, growing up speaking Hindi, English, and Malayalam. From a young age, she developed a love for music, hospitality, and playing with her three brothers. Though leadership was not an initial goal, Sabina gradually embraced the roles life offered her, discovering that her strength comes from security in God and owning her story. She earned a bachelor’s degree in counseling from Moody Bible Institute and a master’s degree in Christian leadership from Dallas Theological Seminary. Motivated by a growing concern for the well-being of Christian leaders, Sabina founded Se.cure, an offline retreat space dedicated to Christian leaders. Sabina advocates for a renewal in Christian leadership—one that values the humanity of leaders above all else. She believes leaders need safe spaces to unravel their stories, rest deeply, and experience affirmation that who they are matters more than what they do in any given season.
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Taylor Negrete
Taylor Negrete
Taylor is an associate pastor passionate about spiritual formation, intergenerational unity, and innovative ministry. With over a decade of experience, he has led worship, youth, and media ministries while helping launch new campuses, build volunteer teams, and create environments where people can encounter God deeply. Taylor thrives in collaborative, spirit-led settings and is committed to fostering unity across generations and denominations. He believes that a collective witness among diverse churches reveals the fullness of God’s Kingdom.
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Thomas Benton
Thomas Benton
Thomas is a participant in the Chick-fil-A Leadership Development Program, where he is dedicated to growing as a servant-minded leader. With a people-first mindset and a deep passion for mentorship, he contributes to teams grounded in purpose, integrity, and continuous growth. He believes leadership is not defined by titles, but by faithfully serving others wherever God calls you. Known for his ability to blend structure with creativity, Thomas brings energy, humility, and a strong sense of mission to every opportunity. Outside of work, you’ll find him exploring local art exhibits, running through the city or digging through crates of vinyl records.
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Viveka Starr Hall-Holt
Viveka Starr Hall-Holt
Viveka delights in weaving communities together to embody the beauty and power of our shared humanity. Raised by parents from West Africa and enriched by experiences across multiple countries, she grew up with a deep appreciation for diverse cultural values, wisdom, traditions, and stories. After earning degrees in religion and psychology from St. Olaf College, Viveka has contributed significantly to Paths to Understanding by developing programs such as Let’s Go Together, Potluck Project, and Go and Do Likewise. Currently serving as the Let’s Go Together program coordinator, she partners with community leaders to bridge divides and foster meaningful connections across diverse groups. When not engaged in her work, Viveka enjoys singing, reading, dancing, spinning, hiking, and spending time with loved ones in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
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Christoph’ McFadden
Christoph’ McFadden
Christoph’ is a fifth-year PhD candidate in Music and African American Studies at Yale University. A graduate of Claflin University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music (Voice), his scholarship explores the dynamic intersections of music, spirituality, and Black popular culture. His dissertation, “You Brought the Sunshine: The Clark Sisters, Gospel Fandom, and the Practice of Celebrity”, examines the music and cultural influence of The Clark Sisters to highlight the relationship between gospel performance, digital fandom, and celebrity within African American religious life. Beyond the classroom, Christoph’ works with Yale’s Program in Sacred Music and the Black Church, an initiative of the Institute of Sacred Music. His academic work is deeply shaped by his lived experience as a vocalist, writer, Christian minister, and community advocate.
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Antionna Fuller
Antionna Fuller
Antionna is a visionary leader, faith-based entrepreneur, and founder of Healing Households, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to healing intergenerational trauma and helping families break unhealthy generational cycles in the name of Christ. A proud first-generation college graduate, she earned her degree from the University of South Carolina, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a major in psychology and minors in criminal justice and African American studies. Although she initially pursued public interest law, she felt a divine calling to ministry and service beyond the courtroom. Today, her work spans nonprofit leadership, spiritual formation, and creative arts. Passionate about storytelling through faith, family, and social justice, she is now venturing into film and music production. A true Southern sweetheart from rural South Carolina, Antionna embodies the spirit of the worship song she once led in church—“I Give Myself Away.” She finds joy in biblical genealogy, caring for animals, and spending time with her beloved nieces.