The Dakotas Conference welcomes Bea and Dave Stucke as new employees in the Mitchell office.  Bea is the Administrative Assistant to the Director of Ministries.  Dave is the Communication Associate, a new position, with a focus on video production.  The Stucke's  moved back to South Dakota from Spokane, Washington. 

Bea grew up in Germany.  She graduated from the University of South Dakota with a degree in Business Administration.  She has worked in the areas of government contracts, training and library management.  Bea is fluent in French, German and English. 

"The staff is one of the most welcoming, friendly, smart and generous people I have met. I look so much forward to working here," said Bea. 

Bea describes her first days at the conference office this way. "Wow, they are BUSY!!! Who knew? I quickly knew that this is a team that tackles challenges with courageous spirit and immense flexibility."

Dave is the son of Rev. Earl Stucke, retired.  He graduated from Huron HIgh School and the University of South Dakota with a bachelor's degree in Mass Communicaiton.  Dave didgraduate work in film production while living in Germany.  He has over 15 years of experience in video production, photography and other media. 

What is Dave's first impression? "'Communication' is practically exploding across the Dakotas Conference. I’m seeing not only a wide-spread use of new technologies to connect pastors, laity and volunteers, but also a fast-growing number of requests for all types of video assistance. The Conference staff have been very warm and welcoming, and create an atmosphere conducive to everyone’s work here," said Dave Stucke.

Dave looks forward to getting going.  "I look forward to supporting the mission with video technology and messages. Raising teenagers in today’s digital culture gave me a first-hand look at their consumption of video. That will clearly continue as today’s teens become tomorrow’s adult members of our congregations. Across the conference we have messages to collect and share with these video-connected people, and they expect it. I can’t wait to get up to full speed getting the messages in and out!"

Bea and Dave spent the last year in Spokane, Washington but felt called to return to the Dakotas to serve the church.  The were 16 year residents of Rapid City, South Dakota and active members of Canyon Lake United Methodist Church. 

The have been several changes in staff for the Dakotas Conference this summer.  Click here to view photos and contact information of the Cabinet and Extended Cabinet and here for the Conference Staff.