Bishop Harvey Appoints Director of Communications for the Rio Texas Conference

San Antonio, TX — March 2, 2025 — Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey announces the appointment of Rev. Amanda Banda as the Director of Communications for the Rio Texas Conference, effective July 1, 2025. In this role, Amanda will lead strategic communication initiatives, expand digital engagement, and enhance storytelling efforts to better connect clergy, laity, and local churches across the conference. Rev. Banda will be apart of the extended Cabinet and will join the Director’s table of the conference.

“As Amanda steps into this role, she will help us tell the stories of how God is moving in our congregations,” said Bishop Harvey. “Her expertise in communications, digital strategy, and ministry leadership will be invaluable in equipping our churches with the tools they need to engage their communities with clarity and purpose.”

Amanda brings significant experience in communications, public relations, and digital ministry, having worked in church, corporate, and educational settings to develop high-impact messaging, branding, and media production.

“I am honored to step into this role and passionate about strengthening communication across the Rio Texas Conference,” Amanda shared. “I believe storytelling is at the heart of our mission, and my goal is to help churches share their unique stories in compelling ways—through digital platforms, creative media, and strategic messaging. I am excited to work with our Rio Texas clergy and laity, and the team at the conference office.”

Amanda’s background includes serving as a Communication Specialist at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health Brownsville, where she managed media production and social media content, created graphic designs for print and digital platforms, and facilitated team-building sessions on collaboration and self-awareness. She also worked in public relations and marketing for Harlingen CISD, serving as an editor, videographer, social media manager, and studio director for district-wide communication efforts. In addition, she has taught audio/video production, graphic design, and digital storytelling, equipping students, staff, and organizations with the skills to craft compelling narratives and enhance communication strategies.

Amanda is a licensed local pastor pursuing her Master of Divinity at SMU Perkins School of Theology (Class of 2027) and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Leadership from the University of Arizona Global Campus. She currently serves on the Rio Texas Conference Board of Ordained Ministry, Nominations Committee, Finance Table, and the Crossroads District Strategy Team.

Her husband, George, is a Network Engineer for the City of Victoria and plays a key role at FUMC Victoria, overseeing the AV production and sound team for the contemporary service. Their teenage children are actively involved in church ministry, serving in AV production, worship leadership, the praise band, and children’s ministry, as well as volunteering at and attending midwinter retreats, various camps, and mission trips. As a family, they are deeply committed to using their gifts and talents to serve the church and share Christ’s love with others.