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 How did you first hear about DSA and why did you become a board member? I attended Mississippi State University and while a student there, I met T. Mac. We became friends through participation in similar on-campus activities and he and I actually lived next door to each other for a year. I remember even as students at State, hearing T. Mac talk about his vision to help young men develop into Christian men through Christ-centered disciplined education. I have been involved with Chambers of Commerce and non-profits as a professional. I currently work for a trade association, which is technically a non-profit. When catching up with T. Mac a year or so ago, I shared some of what I had learned in working with my Board, and we agreed that I might be able to help as a member of the DSA Board. In my job I also engage with the federal government on grant programs and public policies so I am hopeful I can bring some of that know how, as DSA might have to navigate state and federal laws and funding opportunities.
How do you feel DSA influences the Delta as a community and furthers the Kingdom? While I didn't grow up in the Delta, I grew up as close to it as you could. I grew up in Grenada and I have always been burdened by the lack of Christian influence for young men growing up in the Delta. Sure, there are healthy Christian churches, but what an influence to have a school whose mission is to "promote the highest achievement in academics, a Biblical worldview, a competitive athletic environment, and character development." DSA can complement churches, parents and other Christian influences in young men's lives to grow God's presence in the Mississippi Delta.
List a few of your goals as a board member over the next 5 years. I do hope to help T. Mac and the school navigate state and federal funding opportunities. If there are public policy conversations at the state and federal level related to independent school education, I hope I can be a resource. Also I hope I can provide support as an engaged Board member and another voice to the conversations on all the school's operations.
What do you pray a student will look like when they graduate from DSA? I can't help but think about DSA's mission when responding to this question. If a student graduates with appropriate academic achievements, an understanding of a Biblical worldview, valuable experiences through a competitive athletic environment, and positive character development, my prayers for the young men would be answered.
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