Staff and Board

In 2024, our staff prays daily at 1:09 p.m. from Joshua 1:9. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

Aaron Box - National Director

Aaron stepped into his role as the new USMB national director in July, 2024. Aaron has served as senior pastor of North Park Community Church in Eugene, Oregon, since 2011 and has more than 20 years of ministry leadership experience. Aaron served on the USMB Leadership Board from 2014-2022 and has extensive volunteer experience leading in his local community. Aaron is passionate about developing young leaders and loving people who don’t know Jesus, introducing them to the Gospel. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Bible/Theology and Youth Ministry and a Master of Business Administration. In his time off, you can often find Aaron exploring the mountains and rivers of the Northwest. Aaron and his wife, Jennifer, have two children and reside in Eugene.
You can reach Aaron at Aaron@usmb.org.

J.L. Martin – Bookkeeper / Event & Social Media Coordinator

J.L. serves as bookkeeper and event planner which he started in September 2023 in addition to his role as social media coordinator. Previously, he served in churches for 23 years and most recently at Hesston MB Church for 15 years. J.L. is very familiar with our Mennonite Brethren family and loves connecting through social media. He enjoys coffee, reading, Spartan races and working out. He and his wife, Bethany, have four children and live in Hesston, Kansas.
You can reach J.L. at jl@usmb.org.

Desirae Rolen – Administrative Assistant / Webmaster

Desirae joined the USMB staff in July, 2024 and serves as Administrative Assistant and webmaster. She also serves as the administrative assistant for USMB NextGen. With more than six years of experience in administrative assistant roles and four years in website development and maintenance she looks forward to utilizing her skills for USMB. As a former missionary kid, Desirae is excited to connect with the diverse community of churches in our conference. She and her husband, Brad, have one daughter and attend Ridgepoint Church in Wichita, Kansas.
You can reach Desirae at offices@usmb.org.

Janae Shafer - USMB Communications / Christian Leader Associate Editor

Janae (Rempel) Shafer – USMB Communications, USMB;
Associate Editor, Christian Leader

Janae joined the USMB staff as Christian Leader assistant editor in September 2017 and transitioned to associate editor in January 2020. She added USMB administrative assistant duties in July 2020. A story-teller at heart, Janae is an award-winning journalist with experience in newspaper writing and photography. Janae graduated from Tabor College in 2010. She and her husband, Austin, live in Wichita, Kansas, and attend Ridgepoint Church. Janae enjoys sports, photography and a good cup of coffee. She is on a mission to attend a game in every MLB ballpark.
For all things CL, reach Janae at: newseditor@usmb.org.
For USMB, reach her at admin@usmb.org.

Connie Faber – Editor, Christian Leader

It is obvious to all who meet Connie that her commitment to the church—both her home congregation and the larger Mennonite Brethren family—runs deep. Connie has served with the denominational magazine since 1994 and as editor since 2004. In her role with the magazine, Connie's contact with many congregations and people has given her an appreciation for the diversity of the USMB family. “Each church is different, with a unique role to fill in their home community,” she says. “Each church has a story to share and special people that call that church home.” She and her husband, David, have three adult children and two grandchildren. They attend Ebenfeld MB Church, Hillsboro, KS.
You can reach Connie at editor@usmb.org.