Michael Sacasas earned his MA in Theological Studies from Reformed Theological Seminary in 2002. He was later a doctoral candidate at the University of Central Florida studying the relationship between technology and society with a focus on the work of Hannah Arendt. Along the way he has taught in a variety of settings, served as a school administrator, and written extensively on technology and society. He is an Associate Fellow in Ethics and Culture at the Greystone Theological Institute.

After serving overseas as missionaries for 20+ years, Vicki and her husband are grateful to settle in FL to be closer to family. In 2024 the Lord opened doors for Vicki to join CSC in her administrative role, and she is finding it a joy! Vicki is active in her local church, enjoys running and spending time with their granddaughter. She enjoys hugging the baristas daily and having a mother-like presence while serving the Lord here. Scripture is her foundation. Philippians 1:6 is especially encouraging: "Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Praise Him!

Rachel is from Miami Florida, she is currently in her fourth year at the University of Florida, where she will receive her Bachelor's degree in Art History. In addition to leading the Hospitality Team at the Study Center, she also is a part of the Barista Fellows Program at Pascal’s Coffeehouse. In her free time she loves to do pottery, bake sourdough, play piano, and host.

Anabel is a UF alumna with a love for Gainesville. She was first introduced to the CSC during her time in undergrad, when she took part in our Barista Fellows Program and served as our Director of Hospitality. Because of her experience in our ministry, she joined full-time staff in 2023 to help make our formation programs possible for more students and faculty members. As Director of Advancement, she leads our generosity and marketing initiatives. 

Rachel grew up in Jacksonville, FL and graduated from UF in 2020 with a Bachelor's degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences. Since graduation, Rachel has served in full-time youth ministry at two churches, and recently began working as a part-time staff member here at the Study Center in January of 2025. Rachel loves calling Gainesville home, and is thankful to support the ministry of the Christian Study Center!

Sycora Benavides grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, and graduated from the University of Florida in 2021 with a degree in Health Science. While still an undergraduate she joined the staff of the Christian Study Center of Gainesville as a barista in Pascal’s Coffeehouse, served as Assistant Manager in 2021-2022, and now serves as Pascal's Manager. Sycora also furthers the spiritual formation of our barista staff by leading our Barista Society in shared readings and dinners. Sycora views Pascal’s Coffeehouse as the embodiment of the understanding of life that the Study Center seeks to explore. She loves creating communities that thrive, and she also enjoys running, reading, singing, exploring--and really anything fun.

Ruthie Jo Popp grew up on a farm in central Illinois, received her BA in Biblical Studies from Wellesley College, and her MBA with a concentration in accounting from Babson College. With a CPA license she worked for 18 years in public accounting, for 10 of those specializing in not-for-profit audits. She has been the Finance Director for the Christian Study Center in Gainesville since 2005. She is married with 3 grown children and 2 grandchildren. On free weekends, she and her husband, Mick, enjoy visiting their daughter in St. Augustine. When time allows, they visit their son and his family in Golden, Colorado or their daughter and her husband in Morgantown, West Virginia. Ruthie Jo is active in her church and also likes to read, knit, do Sudoku puzzles, travel, and cruise.

Laura received her Bachelor’s degree in Architecture & Design at the University of Florida in 2022. Her involvement with the Study Center community began shortly after graduation and early in her faith journey, where she cherished the reading groups, lectures, and classes as it offered her a rich place to grow spiritually and engage in thoughtful conversations.

As the Hospitality Assistant, Laura finds deep purpose and fulfillment participating in the life of the center through preparing the meals for the programs and welcoming people to a place at the table. She is passionate about creating dishes and flavors that awaken the senses and invite awe and wonder at the beauty of the world.

Laura also enjoys detailed craft projects and miniature modeling, loving on her two rescue rabbits, and baking up a storm as a local pastry baker at Uppercrust Bakery!