Sandra J. Shear
Associate in Ministry (AIM)

Sandra (Sandy) J. Shear began ministry with the Otsego County Lutheran Parish when it was officially formed on August 1, 2005 as the part time Associate in Ministry for all 4 congregations. She graduated from The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg in 2003 with an MA in Ministerial Studies and Christian Education.
Sandy is a cradle Lutheran, growing up in West Chester, PA. She graduated with a BS from Cornell University, then worked as a Cornell Cooperative Extension Agent in Auburn, Cayuga County, NY. She married John Shear, a professor at SUNY Cobleskill College, moving to Warnerville, NY, where they still reside. They raised 3 sons, Matthew, Timothy and Brett, who all graduated from college and are now working.

Sandy was involved in many ministries in her home congregation, Zion Lutheran Church, Cobleskill, for many years before attending seminary. She raised Thoroughbred and Trakehner horses for many years, and enjoys riding, hiking, camping, traveling, many sports and spending time with her family.