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ABOUT US

We are a joint ministry of the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California of The Episcopal Church.

​We are members of the Interfaith Campus Council at UCD, and delight in our interfaith friendships. Each quarter, we hold events like the Interfaith Moveable Feast, Interfaith Harmony Week, and the Interfaith Games.

We are a Reconciling in Christ ministry.

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MEET OUR LEADERSHIP

Since our founding in 2000, The Belfry has developed and grown in a positive direction. We’re very proud of the diversity of our staff, and their abilities to contribute their own unique experience and skills to our success. Find out more about some of our team members below.

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Wannabe writer. Lapsed academic. Bemused  priest. 


The Rev. Dr. Portia Hopkins is delighted to find herself serving as Chaplain at The Belfry. And she takes the “find herself” quite literally--she left a longtime career as an academic to embark on a new journey of discovery not just of herself, but discovery of what a space like The Belfry might become for others. And she very much hopes that others who read this will join her on that journey, discovering new things about themselves, about the sacred, about community, and about ways to make meaning in the world around us. 


Portia comes to The Belfry after many years as a university English professor and administrator. Her call to priesthood in the Episcopal Church came as something of a surprise to her, but the journey to ordination and beyond has proved rich and fulfilling beyond her wildest dreams. She brings many years of experience not only as administrator and teacher, but as informal pastor and spiritual companion to university students and faculty, and is excited to exercise those gifts at The Belfry.


Portia is family to three adult sons and their partners, one perfect grandson, and dog-mom to Belfry Dog Scout. She loves to read, write, think, take long walks and hikes, and hang out with old friends, or friends-she-hasn’t-met-yet. Her natural habitats are anywhere outside, especially the beach or under big trees; bookstores and libraries; and local coffee shops and breweries. 

BELFRY STUDENT BOARD

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BEN BROPHY

President

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JAMES HOCHBRUECKNER

Vice President

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JOE BENDER

Treasurer

THE BELFRY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

STEVE REYNOLDS

Chair

CHRIS SANFT

Treasurer

KAREN SLABAUGH

Board Member

ABIGAIL WISSER

Board Member

BOB WILLSE

Board Member

BETSY MCELROY

Position/Role

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