Julie Antilla has been attending OCC for 14 years. She and her husband, Martin Garza, have one 19-year-old son, Joaquin Antilla-Garza, and they live in Kirkland. They were first drawn to OCC because it provided services in Spanish, Martin’s first language, and supports for autistic children, like Joaquin, in Kidtown. Julie now leads the Connect Group for neurodivergent adults at the church (the Neurodivergent Nexus). Julie is a professor of educational leadership at Seattle Pacific University where she chairs the program for principal, program administrator, and superintendent state certification. She also serves on the core doctoral faculty in the Division of Education. Julie earned her PhD from the University of California at Santa Barbara, her master’s in educational administration from the California State University, and her bachelor’s from Wheaton College in Illinois. She served in public K-12 education for 16 years before moving into higher education. Julie is a life-long learner, and she is currently finishing a master’s degree in theology at Seattle Pacific Seminary. She looks forward to serving on the elder board as OCC seeks to see everyone, everywhere, experience and be transformed by the love of God.

I grew up agnostic and came to faith in Christ during my senior year in college. Originally from Nigeria, I moved to the United States, spent time in Michigan, and then relocated with my family to Washington in 2019. My wife and I have been married for over 20 years and have two sons.

I work as a product manager in the tech industry. Since my family and I started attending Overlake Christian Church shortly after moving to Washington in late 2019, I have been actively involved in community life. I co-lead our BIPOC group, serve on the greeter team, and enjoy welcoming others with warmth and hospitality.

In my free time, I enjoy casual bike riding, stargazing, and outdoor grilling and smoking. I love meeting people, encouraging others, and helping everyone everywhere feel seen and valued as God sees them.