Liasor Dima
Executive Director
Liasor Dima is a refugee advocate, educator, and community leader whose journey began in the Bonga and Sherkole refugee camps in Ethiopia before resettling in Rochester, New York. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and International Relations from St. John Fisher University and a Master’s degree in International Security from the University of Denver, with a focus on East Africa and refugee studies. Liasor is passionate about empowering refugee communities through education and sustainable opportunities, particularly in South Sudan and Ethiopia. He serves as the leader of Uduk Hope Incorporated and teaches English to adult learners in Rochester. His lived experience, education, and commitment to service continue to shape his work toward creating opportunities for displaced communities.
Brian Babcock
Finance Manager
Brian Babcock has served the Church for more than 45 years. He pastored in Texas and Kentucky, taught New Testament and spiritual formation at the undergraduate and graduate levels, facilitated the creation of two certificate-granting institutes to prepare ordained and lay leaders, hosted workshops for Christian education volunteers and small group leaders, and conducted biblical studies and leadership workshops for local congregations. In 2008, Brian founded a network to facilitate Christian ministries in inner-city settings. He and his wife, Carol, lead Faith and Finances workshops and English communication skills workshops for immigrant families.Brian and Carol have two married sons and five grandchildren.
Christine Dima
Officer
Christine Dima is an international education professional, educator, and community advocate with extensive experience supporting international students, refugees, and multilingual learners. She holds a Master of Arts in International Educational Development from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language and Literature from Davidson College. She also holds a CELTA certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults from the University of Cambridge. Christine has worked in international student advising, study abroad, immigration services, and language education, including roles at the University of Rochester, Monroe Community College, and The College at Brockport. Her work has included advising F-1 and J-1 international students, supporting immigration compliance, developing orientation programs, and helping students navigate academic, cultural, and personal transitions.
Tabitha Inna
Board Member
Tabitha Inna is a community advocate, nonprofit leader, and researcher with a strong commitment to supporting refugee and underserved communities. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Economics from Michigan State University. Her professional and volunteer experiences have included nonprofit fundraising, public policy research, education, community engagement, and government service. Tabitha has played an important role in the work of Uduk Hope Incorporated, developing fundraising strategies, organizing community events, recruiting volunteers, and raising awareness and support for Sudanese refugees living in Ethiopia and South Sudan.
Emily Bachman
Board Member
Emily Bachman is a Project Manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, where she manages cross-functional initiatives that support organizational strategy and operational effectiveness. During her four years with BBBSA, Emily has led the organization's AmeriCorps VISTA program and has since taken on broader project management responsibilities across the national office. Prior to joining BBBSA, Emily spent seven years as a Program Manager with WorldOrlando, where she designed and coordinated professional exchange programs for international leaders participating in the U.S. Department of State's International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). Emily holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology and a master's degree in Political Science.