2025 Officers
Rachel Sanders
NCBMA President
I was born in Jacksonville, NC and raised in a Christian home. I gave my life to Jesus at the age of 10. I can't say I have always done what is right in His eyes, but I can say that every time I have turned back to Him, He has welcomed me with open arms. I praise God for His unending gift of love!
​
I recognized God's call to the ministry of Church Administration in August of 2002 at Memorial Baptist Church in the little town of Maysville. I joined NC Baptist Ministry Assistants in 2005, and I am super thankful for the NCBMA annual conference where I have learned so much over the years. In 2016 I became a Ministry Assistant at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Jacksonville. I enjoy being able to help our pastors and other ministry leaders carry out their call for our church.
​
On a more personal note, my husband John and I have recently become "empty nesters". Our oldest daughter is a Journeyman with the IMB in Tokyo and our youngest is in her first year at UNC Wilmington. The quietness is taking some getting used to, but we are enjoying each other's company like we did when we were first married.
Alicia Ashley
NCBMA President Elect
I began working at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in April of 2014. I am responsible for maintaining the church's website and social media pages, as well as assisting with other media and IT needs of the church.
​
I received a Certificate in Web Technologies from Surry Community College in May of 2016. My husband, Russ, and I were married in May of 2012. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and cooking. I currently attend Swan Creek Baptist Church, where I serve as the pianist.
Angela Cockerham
NCBMA Second Vice President
I began working at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in June of 2002. My main responsibility is managing the accounts of the church and daycare, but I also enjoy working with the members of the church and am eager to help them in any way I can.
​
I became a member if NC Baptist Ministry Assistants in 1999 when I was working at the Elkin Baptist Association. I served as President Elect of NCBMA in 2008 and President in 2009-2010. I also served as Secretary/Treasurer of the National Association of Ministry Assistants 2017-2019.
​
I graduated from Surry Community College in May of 2007 with an Associate in Applied Science in Accounting. I attend Swan Creek Baptist Church. I am married to Jesse Cockerham and have two wonderful children, Aaron and Alicia. In my spare time I enjoy reading, watching movies, and working on jigsaw puzzles.
Gayle Gestrich
NCBMA Secretary/Treasurer
I am a native of Jacksonville, NC where I grew up as a middle child with one older and one younger brother. I became a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church, at the age of 15, when I accepted Jesus into my life. I am currently Sunday School class secretary and sing in the choir at Bethlehem.
​
On July 31, 2000, I began working with the New River Baptist Association where I was hired for the position of Front Desk Receptionist. Eventually, I was promoted to the position of Administrative Assistant and then, sometime later, to Office/Financial Administrator which is my current position.
​
I am the proud Momma of James David (43) and Joshua Caleb (41) who is married to Becca. I am also the proud Grammy of Isabella (8) and Luke (due October 14). I like to do word puzzles, color in coloring books, and take outdoor walks in my spare time.