Hometown: El Paso
Present City: Carrollton
Education: Baylor University
Profession: Educator
Tell us about your family.
I have four adult sons who attended Wilshire from cradle roll through college. I also have three daughters-in-law, four granddaughters and two grandsons. I remain close to my brother and his family in Austin.
How about your work or volunteer life?
After working as a teacher and administrator in public and independent schools, I became the founding CEO of a nonprofit in 2019. Texas Council for International Studies partners with school districts to manage International Baccalaureate schools serving economically disadvantaged students. I’ve served on the board of Texas IB Schools and continue as a nonvoting member. I’ve also volunteered in the ICU waiting room at Baylor Hospital’s Roberts Building.
Any favorite hobbies?
In addition to everything Baylor, I enjoy the Dallas Symphony, movies and theater — especially Broadway plays and musicals.
What brought you to Wilshire and when?
After graduating college and moving to Dallas, I first attended another Baptist church but didn’t feel at home. A date suggested I try Wilshire, saying it was nearby and a good church. That changed my life. I started coming Sunday evenings and joined in April 1969. From single adult to grandmother, Wilshire has been my spiritual home. Starting in 1975, I taught youth Sunday School for 14 years. I made snacks for Sunday night youth events and volunteered in preschool ministry from 2002 to 2022.
Where are you engaged at Wilshire?
I recently served on the Preschool Education Committee and attend worship regularly at Wilshire or with my sons at their churches.
What has surprised you most about Wilshire?
Wilshire and I have matured together. It’s a safe place to agree, disagree and grow through life’s changes. I’m not sure it surprised me, but it’s exactly what I needed.
What is God up to in your life right now?
God is still teaching me how to use my talents and trust in divine guidance. This season of professional life has been a surprise, but I feel God’s presence in every opportunity.
Tell us about your faith journey.
Church was always central to my family. I was active in my youth group and Youth for Christ. My time at Baylor deepened my faith, especially through religion classes with Dr. Bill Tolar. At Wilshire, my faith has grown in all seasons of life.
What’s something interesting that people may not know about you?
My brother and I once tried to dig up a cactus. Don’t try it!
What words best describe you?
Loving, loyal, a bit stubborn.