Aaron Hayse and his wife, Olivia, made their home in Chatham in late 2022. Growing up in Kansas, Aaron eventually found himself in another Midwestern cornfield at Champaign, Illinois, where he served in worship ministry for several years. Aaron studied at Pittsburg State University (not in Pennsylvania, but in Kansas) and Ozark Christian College; he has degrees from both schools. Aaron joined the South Side staff in October 2025.

Aaron studied opera and art song in his undergraduate years and even taught himself piano, guitar, and drums. He also worked briefly on staff at a church in technical production, which helped him improve his skills in audio, video, and lighting technology.

You may have seen Aaron performing on occasion in various musical productions here in Sangamon County. When he’s not playing a board game or traveling the world, Aaron will likely be enjoying his home with his two young sons and wife, probably taking their French Bulldog, Momo, for a walk.