Aitriona Peterson-Ramey will be joining the UUCC staff this year as our religious education Social Justice Coordinator, DRE Jamila Batchelder has announced. Aitriona will be helping in our classrooms Sunday mornings and leading our Service Sundays once a month.

Aitriona is an experienced teacher, currently teaching English at Battle High School. She has a Master’s in character education and a doctorate in educational leadership, with certification in special education.

Jamila said she met Aitriona more than a decade ago when she was Jamila’s intern in the City of Columbia CARE Art Gallery, an arts program for under-served youth. “She impressed me with her passion for the work, her dedication and her care for the youth, as well her energy, upbeat attitude and sense of humor. She is also an incredible artist!”

From Aitriona: “I’m excited to join the team at UUCC because I love working with young people. In my day-to-day as a high school teacher I’m constantly reminded that we have a duty to give students the content and help them navigate life. I’m excited to be a part of the team and learn with the kids, volunteers, and the rest of the congregation! I have such fond memories of my own experiences with youth group and look forward to using my gifts to give back to the community.”

Jamila hopes to recruit some great volunteers for our Service Sunday team to support Aitriona in her work. Let Jamila know if you are interested.