Chris Abeel
Board of Trustees President
Chris Abeel has been a metaphysical student in Unity of Fredericksburg since 2005. She has served in many capacities including music coordinator, audio team, youth ed teacher, hospitality team, prayer team, visioning team, Thurman Brisben, social media, and secretary on the Board of Trustees. She is a retired music teacher and still plays cello with various local groups. If re-elected to the board she will work to enhance our online Sunday experience, include more kid friendly in-person events, and expand Unity’s community service footprint.
Linda LaPorte-Torres
Board of Trustees Vice President
Linda LaPorte Torres moved from New York City to Fredericksburg with her husband and children in 2017 and has continued her career in education. She was introduced to Unity of Fredericksburg in 2022 and became a member in 2023. Linda currently works as an elementary school ESOL teacher. Linda is honored to serve on the prayer team and would welcome the opportunity to serve on the Board of Trustees, supporting Unity’s mission of spiritual awakening and transformation within its inclusive community.
Andrea Giehl
Board of Trustees Secretary
Hi! Most of you know that I am a retired clinical social worker. My husband Jim and I live in downtown FXBG. I have two sons, Josh (lives in Greenville, SC) and Dan (lives in L.A.). For the past two years, I have been President of the Board of Trustees and am seeking re-election for another 2- year term. Over the past 20 years of membership at Unity of Fredericksburg, I have served on the Board of Trustees a number of times. I’ve also either headed up or been on a variety of ministry teams including coordinator of Spirit Groups. Our streamlined version of “a church without walls” has provided both joy and spiritual unfoldment as well as social support to our church family and the broader community. I look forward to the myriad of possibilities for how we might “show up” for each other and the Fredericksburg area as we continue to cultivate and align with higher consciousness. We have an amazing opportunity before us to co-create in a unique way. Let’s do it!
Linda Thornton
Board of Trustees Treasurer
I am married and have one grown son. I came to Fredericksburg as a college student and have been here ever since. I retired 2 years ago from a career in Information Systems as a computer programmer/developer and business analyst. I enjoy gardening, travelling, and spending time with friends. I had been searching for a spiritual home and I found it at Unity on Halloween in 2015. It has been life changing. As a member, I chaired the facilities committee when we were at the RT 1 location. And have participated in many programs and events. As a member of the Board of Trustees I will use my project management and organizational skills. My vision for Unity is for our community to continue to grow and prosper.
Judi Laganga
Office Manager
