Fighting to Live: The 2026 Buckner Family Pathways Graduation in Dallas

Belinda and I were so blessed to attend the 2026 graduation ceremony of the Buckner Family Pathways program for single parents at the historic campus of Buckner Children and Family Services in Dallas under the leadership of Cynthia Rentie, Director of Buckner Family Pathways, Dallas. We celebrated eight graduates earning associate and bachelor’s degrees in veterinary technology, hospitality and management, public health, science, nursing, business administration, and applied science from Dallas College, University of North Texas at Dallas, Tarleton State University, and UT Arlington.

Ms. Rhonda Lee, an alumnus of the Buckner Family Pathways program was a special guest speaker.

Senator Angela Paxton, representing the Texas Senate, shared inspirational and encouraging words as well.

We were also honored to host Aicha Davis, Texas House of Representatives, District 103 as well.

Dr. Jeff Murriel delivered the keynote address and shared an experience related to a life-threatening health issue. He recalls, under sedation, hearing the physicians say, “If he fights, he will live.” This message echoed in the hearts of our graduates and all who attended. Dr. Murriel encouraged all to “fight and you will live,” regarding struggles and challenges we face in life.

Our hearts were lifted in praise with message and music by Loretta Harley and Trissauna McGill, one the graduates who sang so powerfully.

The invocation was delivered by Dr. Carolyn Cooper- Murriell.

Jeff Gentry, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Buckner International, closed the celebration with an inspirational message.

The event was celebratory, worshipful, and highly impactful for me and my wife, Belinda. Buckner trustees Lisa Eady and her husband, Monti; Alicia Howell and her husband, Paul; Dr. David Reyes; and newly elected trustee, Steve Reid, were present to experience Buckner ministry impact firsthand. We were all so blessed.

Indeed, our graduates have fought the good fight and reached incredible milestones. For most of the graduates, this is the just beginning with several planning to continue their education and grow in their vocation.

Buckner hosts six other Buckner Family Pathways programs in Texas led by excellent leaders like Cynthia Rentie, supported by Buckner leaders like Lindsay Martin, Executive Director of Buckner Dallas programs; Marissa Phillips, Sr. Director of Family Pathways; Debbie Sceroler, Associate Vice President of Domestic Operations, Buckner Children and Family Services; and Henry Jackson, President, Buckner Children and Family Services, Inc.

Hope shines here!