
Our Board
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Our board is made up of dedicated volunteers who selflessly devote their time and talents to serve those who serve. Each member brings a unique perspective and commitment, ensuring that this organization, Tychicus, operates with the highest standards of excellence and compassion.
The board operates with the motto, "Noses in, thumbs out!" This guiding principle reflects their dedication to active oversight—staying closely involved in monitoring our practices and making sure that Tychicus remains steadfast in its mission. By keeping their "noses in," board members are attentive to details and ensure our activities align with our core values. At the same time, "thumbs out" signifies their respect for the operational team's autonomy, empowering our ministry team while maintaining accountability and transparency.

Tychicus Ministries Board President
Jonanne Manogue
Jonanne’s passion for both education and her faith became central to her professional life. With a wealth of experience as an educator, she was recognized for her deep commitment to the Lord and was offered the opportunity to serve as the children’s minister at her home church. Accepting the position in 1996, Jonanne devoted herself wholeheartedly to this role, serving faithfully for 21 years. Her ministry impacted generations of children, fostering their spiritual growth and nurturing their understanding of Christian values.
In 2014 Jonanne was part of a Tychicus Team that served World Team in Bali. Since that time Jonanne has also been a Board Member of Tychicus Ministries and is currently the Board President.

Tychicus Ministries Board V.P.
Peter Bales
Peter and his wife Janet established Tychicus Ministries in 2010 as its founding members. Peter was instrumental in the foundational structure of Tychicus Ministries’ 501(c)(3) status. His expertise ensured that all legal and organizational requirements were met, laying a solid framework for the ministry’s long-term growth and impact.
As a successful business owner, Peter brings a wealth of practical experience to the ministry’s board. His background in business management equips him with unique insights, enabling effective decision-making, resource allocation, and strategic planning. These skills have proven invaluable in navigating the complexities of nonprofit leadership.

Tychicus Ministries Board Treasurer
Julia Marsden
Julia comes with experience in the nonprofit world. She has served for several years working in nonprofits where the governing body is a board of trustees. She currently lives in northern Illinois and works at Kobo, Inc. as the Administrative Coordinator and Bookkeeper.
As board treasurer, Julia manages the organization’s finances by overseeing cash flow, accounts, and the annual budget. She provides detailed expenditure reports to the board that align with organizational goals.
She also has a heart for children's education. She has served on a number of our Tychicus teams. She also serves in children's ministry at her church and at a local homework club, serving kids kindergarten through 5th grade. Her quiet and gentle demeanor provides a safe place for the missionary kids to learn and feel loved.

Tychicus Ministries Board Secretary
Carlyn Peterson
Carlyn has served on the Board of Directors for Tychicus Ministries since 2020, contributing to various teams in multiple capacities. Alongside her husband, she provides ongoing support to the organization's initiatives.
She brings significant expertise and diverse talents to the board. In her capacity as secretary, Carlyn plays an essential role in facilitating communication, maintaining records, and ensuring compliance with organizational requirements.
In addition to her board responsibilities, Carlyn is a certified fitness instructor, worship leader, and homeschools her two children. She demonstrates a strong commitment to her faith, family, and supporting others in deepening their relationship with Christ.

Tychicus Board Member
Tom Buursma
Tom brings a wealth of knowledge to the Tychicus board from the missionary’s viewpoint. He and his wife are World Team missionaries serving in the Philippines since 2002. After language school, the couple moved to the island of Catanduanes, where they became church planters in a remote village in the northern part of the island. Later, they relocated to the southern part of the island to participate in another church plant. They served on Catanduanes approximately 14 years and were part of planting two churches, helping to form local leadership as a healthy model for missions.
In 2018, they relocated to the Metro Manila area, where he began serving as a field leader. Having served as the Field Director for nearly seven years, he most recently stepped into a new role as Regional Director for Asia with World Team. He deeply enjoys this new responsibility, and he is excited to see more churches planted across Asia.
Together they have four daughters. Two are currently studying at Wheaton College in Illinois, and two are studying at Faith Academy in the Philippines. Missionary kids hold a very special place their heart, and they bring that enthusiasm to Tychicus Ministries.

Tychicus Board Member
Neil Laabs
With over three decades of experience at the intersection of technology and strategy, Neil brings a wealth of technical expertise and a heart for service to our board.
Currently, Neil leads the cyber security division for a prominent Midwest retailer, where he oversees the protection of digital assets and consumer data. His 30-year career in IT has spanned the evolution of the digital age, giving him a unique perspective on risk management, infrastructure, and organizational resilience.
Beyond the server room, Neil has been a member of Faith Community Church in Janesville WI for 22 years, serving as a Worship Leader for 19 of those. His tenure in this role reflects his commitment to leadership, collaboration, and fostering meaningful connections.
A resident of Janesville WI, Neil is supported by his wife, Conalee. Together, they are the proud (and very busy) parents of two active teenage sons. When he isn't defending networks or leading music, you can likely find him on the sidelines of a local sporting event, a concert band or marching band event.

Tychicus Board Member
Rachel Pitts
Rachel contributes a distinct perspective to Tychicus, having spent nearly 18 years of her upbringing in Southeast Asia as a missionary kid. During that time, she immersed herself in the local language, attended school, and observed her parents' work on the mission field.
After returning to the U.S. she obtained an academic background in Recreational Therapy, which has given her experience in the behavioral health field, working with young children, and supporting the U.S. Army with a focus on P.T.S.D.
Since joining Tychicus ministries as a team member in 2022, Rachel was able to return to the country where she grew up for her first trip with the organization. She has since become a dependable part of the team, leading the Selection Committee responsible for vetting potential members. Her cultural awareness enriches the team's understanding and allows her to serve MKs in highly practical ways.
Rachel lives in South Carolina with her husband, who serves in the Marines. She is passionate about missions and is committed to investing in the lives of other young missionary kids.