Laura Mielke grew up in Montgomery, Alabama. She was baptized, confirmed, and a participant in EYC at St. John’s Episcopal Church. After graduating from The University of Alabama, she worked as a Speech Pathologist for the Montgomery Public School System from 2005 until 2021. Over the last several summers, Laura has served on Program Staff for Bethany’s Kids at Camp McDowell. One of Laura’s core beliefs is that children thrive when they form secure attachments, feel safe, and are loved for being exactly who God created them to be. Laura has been married to Nick since December of 2005. They joined Ascension in 2017 with their 4 daughters, Harper and Lily (15), Wren (11), and Laura Kelly (7). The Mielkes enjoy family game nights, hiking, and camping trips with their two dogs, Sis & Bonny.
Nick Mielke was born in Illinois, raised in Selma, and has lived in Montgomery longer than either of those other places combined. Nick worked for almost 20 years in full-time vocational youth ministry before transitioning to the nonprofit world (as Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity and now as Regional Director at Lifesouth Community Blood Center). Nick is excited to be working with the youth of Ascension (and their families) because he believes that a healthy church foundation in those middle and high school years can be one of the most powerful ways to prepare them to head out into the world. Nick and his wife Laura have been married for 17 years and have 4 amazing daughters (Harper, Lily, Wren, and Laura Kelly) as well as 2 dogs (Sis & Bonny). The Mielkes like to spend their free time camping, going to concerts, creating art, listening to music, and hitting up a good thrift store or flea market.