Gretchen Rauch
Gretchen's life has been an exploration in preparation for becoming Grace's Office Administrator. She was born in a city and state named for two men who were active in and encouraged exploration: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
- As a child, when her parents encouraged all their children in music, Gretchen chose percussion, music made by tapping an instrument, such as expressed in the triangle, marimba, and glockenspiel.
- As a teen, she explored both people and processes in the work world, first in her father's lumber, hardware, and building supply store, then in a summer job as a laborer in the local steel mill.
- As a college student, she explored education in electrical engineering, business, and information management, but none of these ignited her spark of creativity.
- As an adult, she moved west and explored Palo Alto, and gave birth to two children and explored parenthood.
- As a homeowner, she explored the challenges and creativity in remodeling houses.
- As a musician, she explored more aspects of percussion and discovered the joy of playing handbells as a soloist and in ensembles: Grace's Praises Ring, Bay Bells, and Sonos.
- As a creative person, she explored the worlds of graphic design and web page creation.
Gretchen brings all her skills and creativity together as Grace's Administrative Assistant. She brings useful and usable design to the publications, from email and postcards to newsletters and the congregation's annual report, in addition to the Sunday bulletins and the web site. She works with the CMT staff and preschool to deal with the administrative details while they teach children. When you call the office for information or assistance, she knows where to look and who to tap for help. It all comes together with rhythm and harmony as she explores new ways to meet needs for the church office.
