South Valley Unitarian Universalist Society

Spiritual Seekers & Justice Makers

Reverend Lora Young

Reverend Lora Young

MINISTER
(she/her)

Rev. Lora Young has been serving South Valley Unitarian Universalist Society since August 2020. Before answering the call to Unitarian Universalist ministry, she built a distinguished career in the nonprofit sector, holding leadership roles in program development, fundraising, and organizational management. She earned her Master of Divinity degree from the Iliff School of Theology in June 2017 and was ordained the following year. Her prior experience includes chaplaincy in both hospice and hospital settings.

Rev. Lora’s approach to ministry is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based principles of learning and human development. While her roots are in a traditional Protestant background, she embraces a theistic orientation enriched by warm-hearted humanism, Celtic Christianity, and elements of mysticism. Practices such as meditation, yoga, and a deep love of fiction provide her with balance and inspiration as she works to co-create a beloved community in the Salt Lake Valley.

    Cameron Adams

    INTERIM DIRECTOR, RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (he/him)

    Cam is instrumental in fostering a welcoming and nurturing environment for children, teens, and families to explore their spiritual journeys and engage with UU principles.

    In his role, Cam recruits, trains, and supports a dedicated team of RE volunteers, ensuring they feel equipped and empowered to lead meaningful and engaging sessions that inspire curiosity and connection among our youngest members. Cam also collaborates closely with Rev. Lora Young to craft a shared vision for our religious exploration programming, emphasizing inclusivity, growth, and lifelong learning.

    Through his work, Cam embodies the spirit of collaboration and compassion that defines our faith community, helping to cultivate a space where everyone feels valued and inspired to grow.
      Rev. John Cooper

      Reverend John Cooper

      AFFILIATED MINISTER
      (he/him)

      John serves as a Board-Certified Chaplain at the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, where he provides compassionate spiritual care to patients, their families, and the healthcare staff. His work is deeply informed by his commitment to honoring each person’s unique story and finding sacredness in the lived experiences they share.

      John’s interests include exploring the role of research in demonstrating the value and impact of spiritual care within healthcare settings. He is particularly passionate about recognizing life stories as sacred texts offering insight, healing, and connection. His dedication to both his professional and creative pursuits reflects his holistic approach to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit.

        Ricklen Nobis

        PRINCIPAL PIANIST
        (is/am)

        Rick is a highly accomplished keyboardist, vocal coach, composer, and music educator whose extensive career reflects both artistic depth and a dedication to advancing the arts. With a foundation in classical and contemporary music, Rick has worked with esteemed symphonies across the country.

        Rick was also instrumental in founding the Film Composer’s Lab at the Sundance Institute, a program that has supported countless emerging composers in their creative development and helped foster innovation in the field of film music.

        For over three decades, Rick has been involved with Utah’s Repertory Dance Theater, contributing his talents as a composer and musician. His longstanding commitment to this celebrated company underscores his passion for collaboration and his ability to bridge music and movement in ways that captivate and inspire audiences. His enduring contributions to music and the arts have made him a respected and valued figure in the community.

          Lauren Tian

          MUSIC DIRECTOR
          (she/her)

          Lauren is a highly accomplished conductor and pianist whose career reflects both depth and versatility. She holds multiple advanced degrees in Piano Performance and Choral Conducting from California State University, Bowling Green State University, and the Eastman School of Music. Currently, she is furthering her expertise by pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Orchestra Conducting at The University of Utah, where she also serves as a Graduate Teaching Assistant.

          With a dynamic career that spans solo and collaborative piano performances, as well as choral and orchestral conducting, Lauren has earned recognition for her artistry and dedication. Her commitment to excellence is highlighted by her tenure as a member of the Grammy-winning University Musical Society Choral Union, where she contributed to landmark performances. Her passion for music and education inspires those she works with, making her a valued member of every ensemble and community she serves.

            Brenda Julander

            OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
            (she/her)

            Brenda brings a wealth of experience as a professional administrator, marketer, and event planner, contributing her skills to support the vibrant life of the South Valley Unitarian Universalist Society. Beyond her professional expertise, Brenda is a devoted mother, an enthusiastic traveler, and a lifelong learner with a deep curiosity about the intersections of spirituality and psychology.

            Brenda enjoys studying comparative religion, seeking out the universal threads that connect people across cultures and beliefs. She finds inspiration in the works of authors like Joseph Campbell, Margaret Atwood, and Neil Gaiman, whose storytelling resonates with her love of exploring the human experience.