Staff

Rev. Leanne Masters

Pastor

Originally from New Mexico, Pastor Leanne started at Southern Heights in February of 2013. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics from Carroll College (Waukesha, WI), and a Master of Divinity from McCormick Theological Seminary (Chicago, IL). 

A self-professed geek who enjoys Husker Football, Red Sox baseball, Doctor Who,  and a wide variety of science fiction, Pastor Leanne can often be found exploring new technology, reading, and spending time with her family.

Ultimately, Pastor Leanne, is on a lifelong journey of seeking ways to understand what God is saying to us through what we see and experience in the world around us. 

Karen Moore

Church Administrator

Karen joined Southern Heights in September 2023, stepping into the role of Church Administrator. Originally hailing from the sunny city of San Diego, California, Karen has always had a deep love for the great outdoors. She enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, gardening (with a particular fondness for growing unusual vegetables), and exploring nature, be it flora or fauna.

Karen is also an avid reader who delights in immersing herself in fantasy worlds. Some of her favorite series include "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" and "Discworld." She also has a penchant for practical, how-to books on topics such as soapmaking, cheesemaking, and canning.

Karen moved to Lincoln with her husband, Rob, where they have resided on and off for the past 15 years. Along with them, they brought their unique family members: Lurch, their prehensile-tailed skink, and their two beloved dogs, Kirby and Hoover (named with a nod to the vacuum cleaner brand). Karen is excited to bring her enthusiasm and skills to the Southern Heights community.

Anita Elliott

Director of Music

Anita Elliott has served as Director of Music for many years in churches throughout Kansas and in Lincoln before coming to Southern Heights Presbyterian Church.  In fact, she played for her first worship service and wedding when she was in the 6 th  grade.  After 42 years of teaching vocal music in Kansas and Nebraska, Anita retired from teaching vocal music education in the public schools in 2012.  She always felt very honored to have the opportunity to teach vocal music at all levels of education and has fond memories of all her students and misses them still today.  The church choirs that Anita has enjoyed over the years have always felt like family and Southern Heights is no different.  “We are family, all my brothers, sisters and me!”

Anita has also been in the entertainment industry for over 50 years.  From rodeo organist for Kansas Biggest Rodeo for 25 years, to traveling to rodeos in Nebraska, Colorado and Kansas, even played for ostrich and horse races, county fairs to beauty pageants, community events, private piano and organ instructor, college piano accompanist, to serving as Director of Church Music, Anita enjoys all kinds of music.  She holds degrees from Wichita State University in piano, organ and music education.      

Anita believes that music is another avenue to express worship.  It is like sharing a common goal to welcome all and to invite all people regardless of their differences and from all walks of life to be part of the worship experience through music.  It’s not just about musical talent but it’s about leading people into a deeper encounter and relationship while giving God all the Glory and Honor. One of Anita’s favorite Bible verses is Psalms 98:4, Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.     

Music brings people together so never be sharp, never be flat and always be natural!”