March 20, 2023
Steven D. Brown resigned from the conference chancellor position on March 17, 2023 after serving faithfully in this position since July 1, 2012.
Founding partner of the Richmond, Va. office of Isler Dare, Brown has over 31 years of experience in cases under various federal and state labor and employment laws. As a United Methodist layperson, Brown brought both his vast expertise and heart for the Church and its people in his work as conference chancellor.
“Steve has worked diligently on behalf of the Virginia Conference for many years,” said the Rev. Dr. Steven Summers, Assistant to the Bishop and the Director of Connectional Ministries. “Recently, Steve’s dedication and expertise was vital in navigating the Boy Scouts of America settlement for both the conference and local churches. This is just one example of the many ways in which Steve’s experience has served the Virginia Conference well for nearly eleven years. Our prayers and grateful wishes go with him, his wife Alice, and their family.”
Effective March 20, 2023, Heather Hays Lockerman stepped into the role of conference chancellor.
A substantial portion of Lockerman’s career was spent in the Virginia Attorney General’s Office as senior assistant attorney. She joined the Sands Anderson firm in 2022 and works to support local governments, school boards, and local officials, by providing them legal advice on matters of state and local government law.
She has been recognized with leadership awards by both the Greater Richmond Bar Association and the Virginia Bar Association in 2007, 2012, 2015 and 2022.
Lockerman is a member of Reveille UMC in Richmond and is genuinely committed to the mission of making disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Bishop Sue Haupert-Johsnon, resident bishop of the Virginia Conference, offered words of welcome following Lockerman’s appointment to the role.
“We are excited and delighted to have Heather join our team,” Bishop Sue said.
The Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church represents over 1,000 churches, almost 2,000 clergy, and almost 310,000 members around the Commonwealth who are growing every day as disciples of Jesus Christ and are transforming the world. Under founder John Wesley, United Methodists are known for their work in the political and social spheres, bettering the lives of people, and focusing on mission, such as disaster recovery, both in local communities and globally.