First United Methodist Church Grand Prairie

Kathryn Strempke

Reverend Kathryn Strempke graduated from Austin College in Sherman and holds a permanent teaching certificate in Texas. She then moved on to Perkins School of Theology to become a minister for the Methodist Church. Reverend Strempke served in 7 churches before taking over the senior pastor position for First United Methodist Church in Grand Prairie, TX. Her pastorates included Westbury-on-Trym British Methodist Church, St. Andrew UMC in Albuquerque, NM and most recently Wylie UMC.

Her hobbies include traveling and a love for photography. She’s learned to look for turkey platters in places that sell coins because her husband is a coin collector. Reverend Strempke is a self-professed TV and movie nerd that prefers “Star Trek,” “Star Wars,” and Doctor Who” to Academy Award winners. She also considers herself to be an UMCOR fanatic.

Reverend Kathryn has been married for 25 years to Kevin Strempke. He is currently serving as the pastor at First United Methodist Church in DeSoto, TX.

Travis Burdett

Youth Pastor / travis@fumcgp.org

The youth of First United Methodist Church of Grand Prairie, and the youth of the entire community are served by Travis Burdett. A 2004 graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Travis holds a Bachelors in Business Administration. In May 2009, the Brite Divinity School of Texas Christian University awarded Travis a Masters of Divinity. Both degrees have served him well as he has ministered to youth for 6 years (Ennis First UMC, Rockwall First UMC, and Wylie UMC) and as Senior Service Advocate and Service Analyst with Farmers Insurance.

Travis has also served as Associate Director of the TCU Wesley Foundation, written curriculum for local ministries, created discipleship programs, mentored students and created fundraising opportunities. He is skilled in communications including the many areas of social media, PowerPoint development, newsletter and bulletin publications.

Travis and his wife, Niki, are parents the parents of two beautiful children.

Naulene Pittman

Director of Music / Pastor's Secretary / naulene@fumcgp.org

Naulene is responsible for guiding the music ministry in the church. She plans the special presentations and oversees the music programs and their leaders. As Pastor’s secretary, she handles correspondence, coordinating weddings, helps with funerals as well as taking care of daily office duties. When relaxing, Naulene enjoys activities with her six grandchildren and watching the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns play football.