04/27/2026
Joining the choir as guest soloist is Zachary Gillis. A Proud native of Northwest Indiana, specifically Gary, Zachary Gillis' journey in music began with the New Community Baptist Church Inspirational Choir, under the direction of his aunt, Ellen Gillis, alongside the pastoral leadership of his father, Rev. Patrick H. Gillis. As his voice developed, Zach was trained as a soloist and later, a choir director, leading both the youth and adult choirs starting at the age of 13. In his undergraduate years at Bethel University (IN), formerly Bethel College, Zach studied Vocal Performance, Sociology, and Theater and furthered his education at Goshen College garnering his master's degree in Intercultural Leadership. Zach currently serves on the pastoral staff of South Bend City Church in Worship and Care as well as the choir teacher and Dean of Students at the Portage School of Leaders. He is a proud member of "Sauti ya UZIMA!," which is the choir of UZIMA! Drum & Dance, an African/Afro-Contemporary Dance Company in Michiana, and is grateful for any opportunity to create musical art around the area. That said, Zach is honored to make beautiful music with the talented musicians at IU South Bend!
