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Charlette holds degrees from Oklahoma State University and The Ohio State University. Retired as Director of Professional Relations and Education at Abbott Nutrition, she now consults internationally in nutrition and healthcare. Charlette led a hospice facility project, supported Cottey College, and authored “Nutritional Care of the Terminally Ill.” Married to John Allred, she’s a dedicated […]
Richard Books, an Oklahoma-based attorney with a J.D. from the University of Oklahoma, specializes in oil and gas law. A former Phillips University Trustee, his 30-year practice includes administrative law and the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. Married for 46 years to Becky, they cherish family, community service, and a shared passion for history and global travel. […]
Cassie serves as Associate Regional Minister for the Christian Church in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan regions. Before this, she served churches in multiple states most recently in Litchfield, Illinois. An ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), she focuses on building sustainable programs and fostering missional churches. Cassie holds a Master of Divinity […]
Mark began his career in 1971 after graduating from Phillips with a bachelor’s (71) and, later, a Master of Divinity degree (77) and a doctorate from PTS in 1995. For over 40 years, Mark served in various pastoral roles in Oklahoma, New Mexico and Colorado. He is now fully enjoying retirement with his wife, Mary […]
Mark Gillett is the Executive Director at the Oklahoma City Housing Authority, where he’s served since 2001, leading a team dedicated to providing affordable housing to 15,000+ people. Mark earned his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Phillips University and his Master’s in Political Science/Public Administration from Wichita State University. In addition to his work […]
Alexis, a Phillips University Legacy Scholar Alumna (Class of 2010), serves as the Senior Vice President for Client Relations at Pension Fund of the Christian Church. With degrees in International Communications and Educational Leadership, she is currently pursuing a doctorate at Vanderbilt University. Alexis is a member of Riverside Avenue Christian Church, a volunteer for […]
Bob grew up in Newton, Kansas and graduated from Phillips University as part of the class of 1973 ½ and has been married since 1974 to Beverly Johnson, a 1973 Graduate of PU. After briefly starting graduate studies in geology at the University of Tulsa, he landed instead at Kansas State University, where he later […]
Rick graduated from Phillips in 1966 and later attended PTS before serving in pastoral ministries for over 45 years. Since retirement in 2010, he’s worked with Global Ministries, Habitat for Humanity, Heifer International, and the Van, and the Arkansas Literary Council. Based in Little Rock with his family, when he has time, he enjoys golf, […]
Having graduated from Phillips University in 1995 with a Bachelor of Music Therapy, Sheri understands the value of scholarships, having benefitted from them herself during her time at Phillips. Dedicated to extending the legacy of PU, she is grateful to have served with the Legacy Foundation for several years. With a Master of Music Therapy […]
A native of Oklahoma City, Catherine attended Phillips University in the mid-70s. including coursework with Dr. Bob Simpson in Sweden. After graduating from TCU, she enjoyed a successful career in medical device sales before retiring in 2018 and relocating to Portugal. Active in various organizations, including the Legacy Foundation and the OKC Town Hall Lecture […]
Carla Stein recently retired as the Dean of Student Affairs at Front Range Community College – Boulder County Campus. With over 40 years in student affairs across multiple institutions, she is committed to removing roadblocks and providing resources for student success. Recognized as a NASPA Pillar of the Profession in 2022, Carla has been active […]
Gabe, a senior at Chapman University, studies computer science with a minor in game development. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, he graduated from Marin Academy. During a gap year, he obtained EMT and WFR licenses. At Chapman, he co-founded a Kappa Sigma fraternity chapter, served as Executive Secretary, and actively participates in DOC […]
Austin, a senior at Eureka College, majors in environmental science and business administration, with a biology minor. As a top student and valedictorian at high school, he excelled in academics and sports, leading his teams as captain. Now, playing Division III football at Eureka, Austin serves as Sustainability Senator, executive officer on the Student Athlete […]
Maggie Nguyen, a senior at Texas Christian University, where she’s pursuing her passion for Early Childhood Education. Engaged in Impact of Words and Kappa Delta Pi, she volunteers at Kinderfrogs, leads an acapella group, and serves as Provisional Member Director for Phi Mu. Maggie aims to foster a supportive community and pursue a career in […]
Paris, a senior in the honors program at Chapman University, is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Broadcast Journalism and Documentary Film, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Peace Studies. Dedicated to community service, she engaged in debate, dance, and outreach activities in high school. At Chapman, Paris is active in political clubs, […]
Olivia Hardin-Nieri graduated from Eureka College with degrees in Communication and Media Studies. During her senior year, she studied in Cusco, Peru, completed additional coursework, and continued to serve in campus leadership roles, including Transfer Student Senator, Vice President, and involvement with Eureka College TV & Radio. Olivia remains deeply grateful for the relationships she […]
Emily James graduated from Texas Christian University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Modern Dance, a minor in Social Work, and honors from the John V. Roach Honors College. During her time at TCU, she was active in Disciples on Campus, Chi Tau Epsilon, and the Honors College community. Emily has gone on to […]
Sam Snider graduated from Texas Christian University with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Philosophy before beginning law school at the University of Missouri School of Law. While at TCU, he was actively involved in fraternity life, college ministry, and leadership within his local church. Sam credits the Phillips Scholar Program with introducing […]
Malachi Gnade graduated from Culver-Stockton College with a degree in Mathematics Education. During college, he volunteered extensively, taught graduate-level classes, served as a resident assistant and tutor, co-captained the volleyball team, and remained active in leadership and service projects connected to his church community. Through the Phillips Scholar Program, Malachi gained experiences that expanded his […]
Skyler Cloyd, from Friendswood, Texas, is a senior at Texas Christian University pursuing a degree in music theory and composition. A pianist and percussionist, he has been involved in choir, theatre, and jazz band. At TCU, Skyler continues to grow as a musician through his studies in piano and organ and through collaborative performance. His […]
Lindsey Maisberger is a senior at Texas Christian University, where she is majoring in Early Childhood through Sixth Grade Education in the College of Education. A proud graduate of Independence High School in Frisco, Texas, Lindsey was active in student leadership and community-focused programs throughout her high school career. At TCU, Lindsey continues to build […]
Lillie Nielsen is a senior at Transylvania University and plans to graduate in the spring with a double major in health and exercise science and psychology. After graduation, she intends to attend graduate school and pursue a career in occupational therapy. Lillie recently returned from a semester abroad in Ireland and is involved in Chi […]
Joshua Oloriegbe graduated from Jarvis Christian University with a degree in Cybersecurity and Business. As a student, he founded and served as president of Campus Central, coordinated career-readiness programming through NABA, and held leadership roles with the HBCU Coding and Creativity Initiative. Joshua credits the Phillips Scholar Program with pushing him beyond his comfort zone […]
Sarah, a senior at Chapman University, is pursuing Integrated Educational Studies with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction, along with minors in English, Psychology, and Religious Studies. Accepted into an accelerated Master’s program, she’s obtaining her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and teaching credentials concurrently. Actively involved on campus, she serves as an orientation leader, leads a Bible […]
Volunteer Leadership Project: La Foret Garden Project, A Project with La Foret Conference and Retreat Center
Libby Skaggs, from Mansfield, Texas, is a senior at Culver-Stockton College. She is double majoring in political science and journalism with a minor in English. On campus, Libby participates in color guard, the Gender and Sexuality Alliance, and the student newspaper. Off campus, she interns with the National Benevolent Association.
Hope Tuttle graduated from Drury University with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and is pursuing a master’s degree in Forensic Psychology at the University of Central Oklahoma. During her time at Drury, Hope played on the golf team, served as an orientation leader, and held leadership roles […]
Ruthie, a senior at Chapman University, majors in Broadcast Journalism and Documentary while minoring in Music Business. From Georgia to Virginia, her upbringing fostered deep involvement in church and community activities. In high school, she discovered a passion for journalism as Editor-in-Chief of the newspaper and TV99 intern. At Chapman, she works at the Fish […]
Michaela, a senior at the University of Lynchburg, is studying English and History with a minor in Creative Writing. Originally from Madison Heights, Virginia, she graduated from Amherst County High School and the Central Virginia Governor’s School for Science and Technology. Michaela serves as a Residential Assistant and an assistant in the Sydnor Performance Hall. […]
Aanika Gillett – Aanika has lived in Oklahoma City almost her entire life. She graduated from Harding Fine Arts High School, where she developed a love for photography. Following High School, Aanika attended Culver-Stockton College in Canton, MO, a Disciples-affiliated college. While majoring in Religion and Philosophy at Culver-Strockton, Aanika joined the Sigma Kappa Sorority […]
Aly is a rising junior at Chapman University pursuing a degree in Anthropology with a double minor in both Spanish and Sociology. Born in South Africa and raised in South Africa and Mozambique, Aly moved to Indiana to attend school, graduating in 2023 with an IB diploma. While there, she was active in her Spanish […]
Victoria is a sophomore at Texas Christian University, where she is pursuing a major in finance with a minor in energy business. A graduate of Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart in Houston, Texas, Victoria served as Student Body President during her senior year. At TCU, Victoria continues to demonstrate her leadership and dedication to […]
Harry Dalstra is a third-year student at Drake University, where he is double majoring in international relations and politics. Raised in El Paso, Texas, before moving to Iowa, he developed an early interest in cultures beyond his own. Harry is passionate about geopolitics and hopes to research cultures and contribute to stronger communities. He also […]
Gloria Gonzalez is a junior at Texas Christian University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Information Systems. Born and raised in Managua, Nicaragua, she moved to Fort Worth, Texas, for her undergraduate studies after completing her primary and secondary education at the American […]
Samuel “Sam” Hatfield is a senior at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky, where he is double majoring in Digital Arts and Media and Religion. At Ballard High School in Louisville, Kentucky, Sam discovered a passion for technical theatre. He now works as a crew member for the Transylvania Theatre Department and Theatre Guild. When asked […]
Kalea Seaton is a junior at Chapman University, where she majors in peace and justice studies and Spanish, with minors in religious studies and disability studies. Before moving from Iowa to California for college, she graduated from Iowa City High School. There, she captained the swim team, served as principal first-chair violist in the orchestra, […]
Marissa Sipe is a first-generation college student at Columbia College in Columbia, Missouri. She is pursuing degrees in forensic science, with an emphasis in biology, and molecular biology, along with a minor in criminal justice and a certificate in crime scene investigation. The youngest of seven children, Marissa graduated summa cum laude from St. Charles […]
Tatum Wilson, from Austin, Texas, is a junior at Texas Christian University pursuing a degree in speech-language pathology. She works as a paraprofessional, supporting children, teenagers, and young adults with special needs in their speech and education. Through this work, Tatum has developed a passion for helping others and hopes to become a speech-language pathologist […]
John will be a first-year marketing student at Texas Christian University. John was born in Georgia and has spent most of his life in Mechanicsville, Virginia. He is graduating in May from Atlee High School. While in high school, John has been an active member of DECA, the tennis team, the National Honor Society, the […]
Stella Trullinger is a rising sophomore at Bethany College, double majoring in biology/pre-veterinary medicine and religious studies. A 2025 graduate of Lutheran High School of Indianapolis, she grew up in both Iowa and Indiana. In high school, Stella participated in school and travel softball, National Honor Society, HOSA–Future Health Professionals, and Girls Inc. She also […]
Daniel Mitchell is a sophomore and Chancellor’s Scholar at Texas Christian University, where he studies religion and political science. At TCU, Daniel serves on the college ministry leadership team at University Christian Church in Fort Worth, participates in Disciples on Campus, and helps lead interfaith programming. He also competes with the TCU Speech and Debate […]
Megan Riddle is beginning her second year at Texas Christian University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and plays snare drum with the Horned Frog Marching Band. A Fort Worth native, she is continuing her education in a city that has always felt like home. Megan graduated from Lake Ridge High […]
Henry Frederick-Gray attended Cambridge Rindge and Latin School in Massachusetts and is now a rising junior at Chapman University. He is pursuing a degree in Writing for Film and Television at the Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. At Chapman, Henry serves as the Retreat Chair on the Disciples Leadership Board for the Disciples on Campus group. […]
Hayden, a senior at Eureka College, is pursuing double majors in sociology/psychology and philosophy/religion, with a minor in political science. A Mansfield High School graduate, he was active in cross country and marching band. At Eureka, Hayden serves as Student Body Vice President, secretary of Eureka’s Alliance, runs cross country, and works as a youth […]
Connie Miroslaw is a dedicated third-year student at Claremont School of Theology, pursuing her Master of Divinity Degree. Hailing from Phoenix, AZ, she thrives in a diverse and multicultural atmosphere. Guided by her faith journey, she discovered her “new” calling in an inclusive, progressive Christian church, where she leads as the Music Ministry leader. This […]
Marissa Ilnitzki is a dual-degree graduate student at the University of Chicago pursuing both a Master of Divinity and Master of Social Work degree. Marissa is a Disciples Divinity House scholar with the named Martin Family Scholarship. Upon completion of her first Clinical Pastoral Education unit at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, in downtown Chicago, Marissa found […]
From Grand Rapids to Southern California, MariaIsabelle’s journey has been one of growth, learning, and passion. After spending six years in Southern California earning a bachelor’s degree at Chapman University and working at various nonprofits, she discovered a passion for advocacy and community work. This past year, MariaIsabelle worked at Groundswell’s Bridges program as a […]
Madison Velazquez is a student at Transylvania University, where she is pursuing her long-term goal of a career in the legal profession. She approaches leadership with resilience, responsibility, and a deep commitment to justice, viewing it as a calling to serve others in moments when care, clarity, and accountability matter most. At Transylvania, Madison has […]
Daniel Stewart is an entering student at Eureka College, where he is studying history and secondary education. An Eagle Scout and longtime member of Scouting America, Daniel has developed a strong commitment to leadership, service, and mentorship through years of involvement in youth programs and community engagement. Throughout his scouting experience, Daniel has held numerous […]
Annika Fuller will be entering her second year at the University of Chicago’s Divinity School where she will be pursuing a Master’s in Divinity and a Master’s in Social Work. Following in both of her grandfather’s footprints, she is currently under care in the Florida region for ordination. She is seeking to become a licensed […]
Andrea is an undergraduate from Tulsa, Oklahoma, who recently graduated from Bishop Kelley High School and is beginning her freshman year at Drury University. She plans to major in Psychology and minor in Fine Arts while continuing her commitment to leadership, service, and community engagement. During high school, Andrea was active in a variety of […]
Kyler Heilman recently graduated from Van Alstyne High School and is beginning his freshman year at Texas Christian University, where he is pursuing majors in Psychology and Religion. Throughout high school, Kyler was actively involved in athletics, playing basketball for four years, participating in Cross Country during his freshman through junior years, and competing in […]
Taeshawn Garrard is a first-year student at Transylvania University, where he is pursuing a double major in Engineering and Psychology, combining his passion for technical innovation with a desire to better understand and serve people and communities. Originally from Lexington, Kentucky, Taeshawn recently graduated from Carter G. Woodson Academy. Throughout high school, Taeshawn demonstrated a […]
Ethan is an undergraduate from Wichita Falls, Texas, who recently graduated from Wichita Falls Legacy High School and is beginning his freshman year at Texas Christian University. He plans to major in Marketing and minor in Music while preparing for a future career in ministry. During high school, Ethan was active in Peer Assistance and […]
Hana recently graduated from Camdenton High School in Camdenton, Missouri, and is beginning her freshman year at Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Missouri, where she is pursuing a degree in Nursing. During high school, Hana served as drum major for three years, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to her school’s music program. She also participated in […]
Frederick (Fred) Pond retired after a 42-year career in the professional tools business of Emerson Electric, including serving as president of the Ridge Tool (RIDGID) Company for 19 years, and ultimately as Chairman of Professional Tools Group. His background includes broad international experience, for profit and non-profit outside Board of Director tenures, and community roles […]
Matthew Gillett is a public opinion researcher and political consultant who currently serves as an Associate at Bold Decision, helping translate complex public sentiment into actionable strategy. He previously worked with Lake Research Partners, supporting political campaigns and advocacy efforts through data-driven research. A Legacy Scholar alum and as the first Varsity Club Scholar, he […]
Jen Spencer is the owner of a private counseling practice in Marana, Arizona, where she provides therapeutic support and guidance for a range of mental health needs, reflecting a deep commitment to personal growth and well-being. She attended Phillips University through 1998, completing her degree in Psychology at the University of Arizona and her master’s […]
Ruth Berta is a Master’s of Divinity student at Phillips Theological Seminary with plans to be ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Ruth holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Messiah University (formerly Messiah College) and a Master’s in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ruth lives in Charlottesville, Virginia with her spouse […]
Anna Whittle is an incoming first-year Master of Divinity student at Vanderbilt Divinity School and the Disciples Divinity House. She graduated summa cum laude from Hope College in 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies and Women’s & Gender Studies. A fifth-generation member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Anna is under […]
Austin Luther is a rising junior at the University of Lynchburg, where he majors in biology with a biomedical emphasis and chemistry. Before college, he graduated from Onward Christian Academy in Rustburg, Virginia. Austin is a member of the Bonner Leadership Program, Theoria Philosophy Club, Pre-Health Club, Chemistry Club, and the National Society of Leadership […]
Jessica Griffith is a Master of Divinity student at Lexington Theological Seminary, where she is pursuing a call to ministry rooted in radical inclusion, justice, and belonging. She graduated from St. Andrews University in 2015 with a degree in Social Sciences with a concentration in Politics. After college, Jessica returned to her hometown of Jacksonville, Florida, […]
Olivia is a senior at Bethany College (W.Va.), pursuing two degrees in communications and Spanish. She hails from Philippi, West Virginia and attended Philip Barbour High School where she was active in yearbook, theater, and Student Council. At Bethany, Olivia is a sister of Phi Mu Fraternity, a member of the honors program, Spanish Club, […]
Grace, a senior at Eureka College, studies philosophy/religion, psychology/sociology, and criminal justice. Graduating from Broken Arrow High School, she was active in various extracurriculars. At Eureka, she holds leadership roles in student organizations, including president of the class of 2024 and Disciples on Campus. Grace’s passion lies in youth ministry, social work, religious hospitality, and […]
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