Leslie Ortiz
Executive Assistant to the Bishop & Lilly Grant Program Director
Leslie Ortiz joined the synod staff in March of 2022 as the interim front office administrator and transitioned to her current position in late June. Originally from Oregon, she is a graduate of Gonzaga University (M.A. theological studies) who served for 12 years at Luther Seminary, most recently as assistant dean for academic affairs. Prior to her presence in Minnesota and service within the ELCA she worked in theological and academic publishing and taught as an adjunct professor in Washington state. She acknowledges though, that it is her first career which people generally find most intriguing as she was once a circus performer. Leslie lives in New Brighton with her husband, Ken, and son, Alex.
In her role as executive assistant to the bishop, Leslie:
- Provides administrative support to Bishop Lull
- Serves as the program director for the Thriving in Ministry grant from the Lilly Endowment
- Assists with coordination and planning for ministeriums, Bishop's Theological Conference, and conference & synod assemblies
- Oversees the synod's database of rostered ministers, coordinating with the ELCA on changes to the roster
- Serves as staff liaison to the constitution review committee
- and a variety of other duties