Dr. George D. Vineyard and Rev. Joanne W. Vineyard
George is a retired veterinarian, having had a mixed private practice in Belmont, New York for 26 years. Thereafter, he worked for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets before retiring in 1995. The couple now resides in Perry, New York.
George and Jo have been very active in their local church. George has taught adult Sunday School classes, directed the church choir and served as a lay speaker. In addition, he has served on various district and conference committees, including serving as Assistant Conference Lay Leader.
Jo has served in many roles in the local church. She was a district and conference officer in United Methodist Women and served as a local church pastor from 1984 until her retirement in 1995. Following her retirement, she served part-time at a rural church near her home for 10 years. While serving on the Conference Board of Global Ministries, Jo was privileged to go on several mission study trips. The first trip was to Zimbabwe in 1988 when Jo was delighted to stand on the site of the new university for all of Africa---Africa University---which was then in planning stages. Jo and George also traveled to Korea in 1993 with Bishop Kim and to Brazil in 1996 to attend the World Methodist Conference.
George and Jo have been experienced speakers and retreat leaders. They have a deep interest in and concern for the mission outreach of the church. This is why they have included Africa University in their estate plans.
George and Jo have two adult sons and five grandchildren. They enjoy walking, reading, gardening.