With a strong background in administration, Alma is eager to use her skills to help everything run smoothly. She enjoys connecting with our church family and visitors alike. Outside of work, Alma cherishes time with her husband, their children, and grandchildren.

Anyla McDonald is a dynamic author, peer counselor, student advocate, and consultant with a deep passion for social justice and community empowerment. A motivational speaker, poet, journalist, and essayist, Anyla dedicates much of her work to supporting BI POC communities across Washington state.

Her advocacy work spans a wide range of institutions, where she has spoken on issues of diversity, social equity, and inclusion. These engagements include schools and colleges such as Whitman College, WSU Tri Cities, Columbia Basin College, Walla Walla High School, and the University of Washington Bothell, among others.

In addition to her speaking work, Anyla actively contributes to several organizations. She serves as Secretary for the Sparkle Initiative 2025, Youth Advisor for the NAACP Tri Cities, and Program Lead for the Academic Achievement Program with AACCES. She is also the Program Director for the Big Sis Academy at Big Bro Joe and has recently served as Chair of the DEIA Committee.

With over 10 professional certifications through the Walla Walla School District, Anyla is committed to continuous growth and development in both her career and community work.

Originally from Los Angeles, California, Anyla enjoys rhythm and blues music, exploring new foods, and spending her free time volunteering with nonprofit organizations. When she is not working on community initiatives, she can often be found at the movies enjoying thrillers and sci fi films.

I was born in Richland, Washington and grew up in Kennewick, Washington. My first introduction to Kennewick First United Methodist Church was when I attended Kindergarten at the Church. I began attending Sunday school at the same time and was baptized and confirmed at Kennewick First United Methodist Church.

After graduating from college I moved to Seattle for about 20 years. While there I attended Tibbetts Methodist Church in West Seattle, then University Methodist Temple in the University District. I married in Seattle and had my son Jeffery. In December 1990 Jeffery and I moved back to the family home in Kennewick and reestablished my membership in Kennewick First.