As the Director of Circle of Friends Preschool, I have a passion for helping children and families enjoy a great start to life-long learning!

I have an Associate’s degree in Child Development and a Bachelor’s degree in Business. I have been involved in the early childhood education field as both a teacher and an administrator for over 27 years. Prior to joining Circle of Friends, I was the director of a corporate child development center in downtown St. Louis. I am the proud parent of twin boys. In my spare time I love to read, spend time with my boys, enjoy the St. Louis Cardinals and Blues, and I used to scuba dive (which I hope to get back into soon). I am thrilled to be a part of the Circle of Friends family!

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Staff

Andy Langdon

Andy Langdon serves as Director of Youth Ministries at Manchester United Methodist Church. With over 20 years of experience in youth and family ministry, Andy brings a relational, creative approach rooted in a deep commitment to walking alongside young people as they grow in faith. He holds a master’s degree

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Emily Pikaard

A life-long Missourian, Emily grew up in a small town in the middle of the state, where music and faith were fundamental to her development. As a daughter of an organist, she spent many hours at church and has participated in music ministry for most of her life. Emily sang

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Andy Blacksher Headshot

Rev. Dr. Andy Blacksher

Rev. Dr. Andy Blacksher is the Executive Pastor at Manchester UMC. He and his wife, Kristen, met in college at Missouri State University. They have two children, Zachary & Nathan, who are both excited to be a part of a church community that offers so many opportunities for their family

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