My name is Eva Jankowske, I am a single mom of a now teenage young man, named Preston. We live in Columbiaville, Michigan and attend Columbiaville UMC. Preston is the best decision I have ever made, and my greatest accomplishment. He is in competitive gymnastics at Epic Gymnastics in Flint, loves muscle cars and WWII Fighter Planes. I enjoy oil painting and spending time with family and friends.
Most my working career has been in one way or another in the field of secretarial, receptionist or administration. From small family owned businesses, to international corporate offices, and veterinary clinics. I have always enjoyed helping people. When I was younger if someone would have said that the job I would be happiest at would be being a church admin, I would have laughed at them…hysterically. I was not raised in the church and the Bible was not read in my home. So working in a church wasn’t even on the list. In August of 2013 the opportunity became available to interview for an administrative assistant position at North Branch First UMC & Silverwood UMC. That day changed the course of my life, for the better. There are no regrets. This “job” is what I feel the Lord has led me to do and it has become my ministry. This is the job that lets me check all the “feel good” boxes and has led me to feeling fulfilled daily.
In 2015, I became involved with MI-AIM (Michigan Administrators in Ministry), which is a charter organization for Michigan Administrative Assistants of all levels, from the local church offices to the conference offices. My goal as Vice President, is to make sure that every church admin knows we are here for them, with resources for educational, connectional and spiritual support.
In September of 2018 I was hired as the Administrative Assistant for the East Winds District. It has been a pleasure and most rewarding working closely with Cheryl Rentschler and Rev. John Hice these past 4 years. The tools and experiences learned have been priceless and will serve me well as we move forward with our new Executive Administrator, Jodi Fuller and our new District Superintendent, Rev. Dr. Margie Crawford. My job title has also been expanded to Administrative Assistant & Connectional Liaison for the East Winds District. In addition to my already established duties, I will be working with our Mission Zones with support for connectional ministries within their communities and other connectional outreaches throughout our district.
Eva & Preston
Five bonus questions:
Favorite bible verse: There are many that I lean on depending on what I am go through at the time. But these two hang on my board in my office:
“Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the heart of fools.” ~ Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make straight your paths” ~ Proverbs 3:5-6
Favorite Candy/Snack: My son helped with this question and he says Heath Bars and Salt & Vinegar Kettle chips (they are his favorites too). I like wintergreen lifesaver mints, black jellybeans and Orange Slices candy too!
Favorite Drink: RC Cola, Arnold Palmers and Vernors
Top three movies: I enjoy many movies, but my top 3 favorites are: Facing the Giants, Everafter and A Knights Tale. My son said it should be Wall-E.
One fun fact: A fun fact about me….you may not know that since I was 8 years old I have been involved with horses. Either showing them, training them, our teaching others. I worked and study with a dressage trainer from age 12 to 19. I was sure that this would have been my future career. But as the saying goes, ”The Lord had other plans.”