Staff & Leadership
The staff and leadership here at ODEC is comprised of men and women who love, care, and pray for every single person in the church. If you have questions for any of our staff, feel free to reach out by email, or call our church office to speak with them.
Mr. Bill Waide
Ecclesiastical Officer / Senior Warden
Bill Waide is serving as Old Donation Episcopal Church's Ecclesiastical Officer during the transition between rectors until an interim rector is called. A cradle Episcopalian, Bill has been a member of Old Donation for 14 years and has served the parish in a variety of leadership roles, including Senior Warden. His long-standing commitment to the church and dedication to its mission provide steady leadership and continuity during this time of transition.
Gretchen Hood
Director of Administration & Communications
Our Director of Administration & Communications has served over a decade on the Old Donation Staff. In that time Gretchen's responsibilities have grown to include not just administration, but also all graphics design, digital communications, and our robust virtual evangelism. She is the central person to coordinate nearly all activities at Old Donation, and the key non-clergy leader to contact for use of ODEC facilities or to get your club, group, commission message out to the congregation. Our Parish Director is the one to contact if you want to get something done. Gretchen is knowledgeable in church liturgy and practice as she is a cradle Episcopalian, and her family includes an Episcopal priest.
Need something done? Email Gretchen and she will take care of the situation.
Zach Moats
Organist & Choirmaster
Zach is well-known in Hampton Roads for his work on piano, keyboards, and musical production. Zach Moats earned a degree from Christopher Newport in classical piano performance with a second focus in jazz. He has many awards and accolades for his playing and has performed all over the world. He previously served as the musician for Denbigh Christian Church in Newport News in addition to his work in performing and recording. Zach brings incredible talent and diversity to our music, making worship better than ever.
Contact Zach!
Leslie Fenter
Gathering Musician Leader
Leslie graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance and from ODU with a masters in Music Education. She is both The Gathering Band Leader/keyboard player, and since 1997, the music teacher for our Day School. At Catholic High School she directs a Chorus of 30+ students. Leslie shucks raw oysters for our Annual Oyster Roast, occasionally sings for our 8am service and for baseball games at Harbor Park. Confirmed at Old Donation in 1989, she is mother to adult sons, Jake and Ted, and wife to John.
Administrative Staff
Janet Castro
Parish Secretary
Janet was born and raised in Hawaii. She joined the Navy, met her husband while in the Navy, and is a mother of three. Music is a big part of her life, serving in the music ministry in a church or Navy. Janet graduated from Virginia Wesleyan University with a Bachelor of Arts in Piano Performance. We are thrilled to have Janet join us to handle bulletins, ordering, and administrative tasks in the parish office, as well as singing in the Gathering Band and playing in the Random Acts band.
Terri Piston
Senior Bookkeeper
Terri is a vital member of our accounting team and even more vital member of the parish. Terri assists with various aspects of our accounting, including payables and online giving. She and her husband, Doug, have four children in college and beyond. Terri regularly worships in the Gathering and has been involved with just about every possible youth fundraiser to support our programs.
Marti Jones
Assistant Bookkeeper
Marti has been at Old Donation for years, so she knows all the ins and outs. She and her husband, Mike, are involved with our outreach programs, and Marti sang in the choir for years. Marti worked in accounting and after retirement wanted a little bit to do, so joined our team as the assistant bookkeeper. We are happy for her knowledge and fun-loving spirit!
Matt Improta
Facilities Manager
Matthew grew up as a member of the parish and has become a faithful, valuable part of the church staff. He is an Eagle Scout that continues to support his troop as an Assistant Scoutmaster. He has worked several part time jobs, participated in Army National Guard, and graduated from Virginia Wesleyan University. Matthew has a passion for cooking, camping, and loves to travel whenever he can. Matt came on board with us full-time in June 2021 and we couldn't be happier! If you want something done, Matthew can make it happen!