Honored at the Texas State Capitol for 15 years of leadership and service at Buckner International

Texas State Capitol, Austin

Texas state legislators from both chambers recently recognized me with resolutions to celebrate 15 years serving as the president of Buckner International. I am always honored to represent this 146-year-old ministry delivering programs for vulnerable children, families and senior adults. I was humbled to hear the words of personal affirmation in House Resolution 281, read aloud by Rep. John Lujan, as I listened from the Capitol gallery.

Texas State Capitol, Austin

“The work they do to protect children, strengthen families and transform generations is truly admirable,” said Rep. John Lujan. “I personally know many lives who have been touched by this incredible organization.”

Reflecting on the past 15 years, I am surprised at how the Lord has provided for the ministry with the right leaders, the right people and the right resources to help Buckner accomplish its mission and explore new opportunities. I count some of our Texas legislators as the ‘right people’ who have championed bills and advocated for policies that help to sustain the work we are doing to help families grow and succeed in their God-given potential.

While I was in Austin, I met with several of these legislative advocates to thank them.

With Senator Angela Paxton

Senator Angela Paxton (McKinney) championed two of our priorities this session:

• SB 1237 (protecting the nonprofit senior living property tax exemption to allow us to keep providing charity care).

• SB 2018 (creating a Strong Families Tax Credit to incentivize businesses to invest in family-strengthening services).

With Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa

I am grateful for the work of Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa (McAllen) and his staff for joint-authoring the SB 2018 and all he does to support our Rio Grande Valley services to families.

With Senator Charles Perry and Andrea Sparks, Director of Government and Strategic Relations, Buckner International

I took time to thank Senator Charles Perry for two senate bills:

• SB 1558 (clarifying the law to stabilize insurance coverage for foster care agencies).

• SB 1522 (defining Continuing Care Retirement Communities to protect seniors).

  
  

With Rep. Armando Walle

Rep. Armando Walle (Aldine) has provided longtime support of Buckner as we have operated services in his district.

With Wayne T Franke

In addition to legislative supporters, I was blessed with a surprise visit by my friend and fellow San Angelo State alumnus, Wayne T. Franke.

Serving as the sixth president of Buckner International surpasses anything I could have imagined in response to the calling to serve the Lord when I was 15 years old. As I reflect, I can see the hand of the Lord preparing me. The roles I had in business – both family and corporate settings, in pastoral ministry, military chaplaincy, higher education leadership at Baptist University of the Americas, and previous positions at Buckner, have laid the foundation for what I do now.

I believe leading Buckner International is currently the best use of my skills, experiences and background for God’s Kingdom as I offer my best service to him. The work is heavy, the challenges are great and the opportunities are even greater for us to bring the Kingdom close to vulnerable children, families and seniors. It is a delight to serve with this ministry and shine hope every day.