Clergy & Staff
Reverend Dr. Patrick Perryman
Pastor and Head of Staff
Patrick is a gifted preacher, accomplished theologian, inspired teacher and fully present in the lives of our members and community – since 2010. He leads the staff, guides the congregation and moderates the church Session. Patrick has been in ordained ministry since 1998, with a Master of Divinity from Columbia Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary. Patrick is approachable, warm and has a unique ability to bring both an intellectual and fresh approach to scripture in his teaching and preaching. He is an avid reader, enjoys spending time with family and friends, and loves the beauty of the Lowcountry. Patrick is a devoted husband to his wife Sissy, and is an engaged father with their young adult children Walker and Holland.
Email: pperryman@firstpresbeaufort.org
Geneva Baxley
Associate for Ministry: Children, Families and Membership
Geneva is an incredible blessing to our church family bringing creativity and spiritual depth to our vibrant family ministries. As a lifelong Presbyterian, she leads our youngest disciples, preschoolers and elementary-aged children, along with their families in spiritual formation, fellowship, and fun! Geneva has a passion for children, infusing in them lifelong memories of fellowship, music, service and exploration of the Christian faith. Geneva also welcomes and helps make connections with those wanting to learn more about membership at First Pres through our New Member classes. Geneva has a rich background in both performing arts and the medical field receiving two degrees – one from Otterbein University (Bachelor of Fine Arts) and one from Duke University (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing). She enjoys being outside and playing on the water with her husband, Luke, and two children Kate and Davis.
Chris Hightower
Associate for Ministry: Youth, Pastoral Care and Capital Project
Chris is a 2026 graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary and is currently under the care of this congregation as an Inquirer. He will soon transition to the status of pastoral candidate as he continues the ordination process.
Chris has joined the staff of First Presbyterian Church, where he serves the youth, pastoral care, preaching, teaching, and support for the church's capital project. Both Beaufort natives, Chris and with his wife Scout are enjoying being back in the Lowcountry with their and young son, Simon.
Email: chightower@firstpresbeaufort.org
Jordan Plair
Director of Music
Jordan leads and directs the adult choir and oversees the music ministry at First Pres. She has more than 11 years of experience as a church musician and music educator leading choirs, ensembles and students. She graduated from Presbyterian College in 2009 with a degree in Music Education. Jordan brings a great deal of enthusiasm for choral singing and church music to the many talented vocalists at First Pres. At home, Jordan loves reading and baking and of course her two beautiful children.
Email: jplair@firstpresbeaufort.org
Lily Cooper
Nora Graczyk
Office Administrator
Nora assists the clergy, staff, officers, volunteers and visitors. She is warm and welcoming and keeps the church office running smoothly. Nora grew up in the greater Philadelphia metro area but loves living in Beaufort with her husband Bradley and two young daughters Evelyn and Eleanor.
Email: info@firstpresbeaufort.org
Tracy Greco
Bookkeeper
Tracy is the First Pres bookkeeper. She graduated from Clemson University with a degree in Financial Management and obtained her CPA license in 1986.
Dena Torcivia
Nursery Assistant
Tracy Von Harten
Nursery Supervisor
Caroline O’Kelley
Sonshine Club Assistant
