Head of School Teresa Chambers with the Board of Trustees at the Grounds for Growth Donor Breakfast
From the HEAD OF SCHOOL
Dear Warrior Community,
As we reflect on this past year at First Baptist Academy, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the many ways God has been at work in and through our Warrior community. This impact report is more than a collection of numbers, stories and milestones, it is a testimony of His faithfulness and a celebration of what can happen when a community is united in mission and prayer.
Daily interactions around campus remind me that what we do extends far beyond academics. We continually equip students with the Truth of God’s Word, enabling them to achieve scholarly excellence and ultimately become graduates who are actively participating in God’s story. It’s a heart-stirring transformation to witness!
Each page of this impact report highlights a part of the transformation made possible by your generosity. This generosity has led to specific improvements this year, including the addition of a lower school wellness program, expansion of the entrepreneurship class to seventh grade students and support for unique professional development opportunities.
As you read through this report, we invite you to join us in celebrating all that God has done, and to look forward with expectancy to all He will continue to do through First Baptist Academy.
Serving Him,
TERESA CHAMBERS, M.S., CPA Head of School Parent of FBA Class of 2021, 2023 & 2024
From the CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Dear Warrior Community,
Every year, I am amazed by the generosity and partnership of our community! Your support of this year’s Warrior Fund clearly shows your commitment to advancing the mission of Christian education.
We often say that First Baptist Academy is more than just a school, it’s a ministry. Your willingness to invest in this ministry ensures that students continue to be equipped with the Truth of God’s Word in every subject, activity and relationship. Through your giving, you help prepare the next generation to lead with courage and serve with compassion in a world that needs both.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, thank you for your faithfulness, generosity and ongoing trust in the mission of First Baptist Academy. We are grateful for how God has worked through you this year, and we eagerly await what He will continue to do in the upcoming year.
With gratitude and appreciation,
JAMES ALSTON
Chairman of the Board of Trustees Parent of FBA Class of 2022
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CHERYL LEHANE, Vice-Chairman | Parent of FBA Class of 2012, 2013 & 2022
PAOLO THOMPSON, Finance Committee Chair | Parent of FBA Class of 2020, 2023 & 2027
JASON YOUNG, Trustee | Parent of FBA Class of 2022 & 2027
GABRIEL IANCULOVICI, Trustee | Parent of FBA Class of 2021, 2024 & 2031
AUGUST ROITSCH, Trustee | Parent of FBA Class of 2033, 2034 & 2036
WARRIOR LEGACY CLUB MEMBERS
OF C/O 2025 ACCEPTED INTO ONE OF THEIR CHOICE HIGH SCHOOLS
AVERAGE WARRIOR FUND GIFT BY HOUSEHOLD ITEMS DONATED TO WARRIORS SERVE FOOD DRIVE
GIVING 31 17
MINI WARRIOR CLINIC PARTICIPANTS IN BRIDGE-FIFTH GRADE
4 NEW SCHOOL RECORDS SET IN TRACK & FIELD HOUSTON LIVESTOCK SHOW & RODEO ART CONTEST FINALISTS
20
205 $1,300 18,054
STUDENT-LED FUNDRAISERS
SECOND TO EIGHTH GRADE STUDENTS WHO MADE HONOR ROLL,WITH 109 REPEAT HONOREES
STUDENTS ENROLLED AT THE START OF 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR
$385K 100%
142 STUDENT LIFE
STUDENTS WITH ALPHA | OMEGA POTENTIAL
77%
FINANCIAL AID AWARDED TO 53 KINDER-EIGHTH STUDENTS ALUMNI LEGACY STUDENTS
5 518
COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES RECEIVED ACCEPTANCES TO
FIELDS OF STUDY PURSUED
FACULTY & STAFF
29 + 13 8 $1.2 MILLION
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED TO FBA C/O 2021 HIGH SCHOOL GRADS
UNIQUELY GIFTED ALUMNI WHO COMMITTED TO PURSUE THEIR GOD-GIVEN TALENT AT THE COLLEGIATE LEVEL IN ARTS & ATHLETICS 4
YEARS OF IMPACT
55
FACULTY & STAFF WITH FIVE OR MORE YEARS OF COMMITMENT TO OUR MISSION
7,000 NEW POSITIONS APPROVED
MILES TRAVELED FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Each year, FBA honors faculty and staff reaching milestone anniversaries in five-year increments with a special bonus in recognition of their dedication and service. The following individuals reached these milestones in 2024–2025, exemplifying a steadfast commitment to FBA’s mission and students.
30 YEARS
Diane Gwyn
15 YEARS
Jeanie Cherry
Cheryl Hollie
10 YEARS
Paul Chumreonlert
Jessica Cudjoe
Rachel Dill
Natalie McMahon
Renee Shaffer
Emily Viladot
5 YEARS
Queidi Rubio
A STRATEGIC IMPACT
Thanks to the generosity of our Warrior community, the 2024–2025 school year was marked by meaningful growth and continued excellence. Your faithful support allowed First Baptist Academy to “SAY YES” to opportunities that advanced our mission and enriched every aspect of school life. From expanding strategic staffing and advancing curriculum alignment to enhancing wellness, fine arts, athletics and campus facilities, each initiative reflected our commitment to developing the character, intellect and potential in students who are equipped with the Truth of God’s Word. Together, we are strengthening a school community devoted to scholarly excellence and a life of impact.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE ONE:
To distinctively identify Who We Are.
FBA continues to deepen its commitment to a clear and unified identity, aligning our mission, vision, core values and Portrait of a Graduate throughout every aspect of school life.
Strategic Staffing
Aligned with “Who We Are”
Continued fiscal health, fueled by tuition and faithful donor support, allows us to attract and retain exceptional Christian educators.
Rooted in FBA’s Characteristics of Professional Excellence, the hiring process prioritizes alignment with our mission, vision and core values.
Strategic positions approved in 2024–2025 for the 2025–2026 school year:
• Dean of Spiritual Life
• Middle School Dean of Student Support
• Entrepreneurship Program Advisor
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE TWO:
Cultivate a rigorous and fulfilling educational experience.
ACADEMICS
Warrior Wellness
First Baptist Academy students experience a developmentally-appropriate wellness education, creating an exceptional learning environment that fosters academic, spiritual and personal growth and establishes the groundwork for enduring achievement.
• Following the completion of her Master of Education in counseling and development, Waverly Walk transitioned into the newly developed role of lower school counselor and Warrior Wellness enrichment teacher for the 2024–2025 school year, a position created to further strengthen FBA’s commitment to student well-being and spiritual growth.
• The Friendzy curriculum selected is a Scripture-based program designed to help students build healthy relationships, manage emotions and thrive academically and socially.
Entrepreneurial Mindset Expansion
The second year of FBA’s Entrepreneurship Initiative showed measurable growth across student engagement and faculty development.
• Meredith Bingham, who holds a minor in entrepreneurship from Baylor University, joined Teresa Chambers, head of school, as the middle school entrepreneurship elective teacher, expanding the program’s capacity and student opportunities.
• The seventh grade Foundations of Entrepreneurship elective creating a pathway for students to receive the Entrepreneurship and Leadership Certificate upon graduation was introduced in the spring of 2025.
• Seven faculty members earned certification through the Seed Tree Group to teach the entrepreneurial mindset across divisions, integrating principles of growth mindset, grit, redefining failure and opportunity-seeking school-wide.
Primary School Curriculum
The Lillio Learning Funshine Express curriculum was selected for infants through twos, fostering curiosity, early literacy and faith-based development.
Curriculum Alignment and Intentional Assessment
In her second year as dean of curriculum and instruction, Natalie McMahon led the school wide implementation of Curriculum Trak, a curriculum mapping software, ensuring that every kindergarten through eighth grade course intentionally supports First Baptist Academy’s Portrait of a Graduate outcomes.
Additionally, MAP Growth, a computer-adaptive assessment that measures student achievement and growth in math and science, has been implemented for middle school.
As a result of these tools, along with established tools like Comprehensive Testing Program (CTP) testing and Degrees of Reading Power (DRP), FBA is able to confidently track and report student achievement and growth compared to national benchmarks:
• FBA middle school students outperformed nearly 75% of students nationwide in reading, including 25 students who ranked in the top 10% across the country.
• MAP results for spring 2025 showed FBA middle school students ranked among the top 26% of students nationwide in math performance with 17 middle school students performing within the top 10% of students across the country. More than half of seventh and eighth graders scored in the 80th percentile or higher.
• CTP results reflected consistent academic growth across all subjects and grade levels, matching or exceeding growth in peer independent schools. The strongest gains were achieved in mathematics, writing and vocabulary.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SPOTLIGHT: Feuerstein Cognitive Brain Training
FBA’s Center for Academic Success therapists attended a multi-day training in Feuerstein Instrumental Enrichment (FIE) Cognitive Brain Training, an internationally recognized program that helps students strengthen how they think and learn, not just what they know. This advanced methodology equips our team to guide students in developing critical thinking, problem-solving and cognitive flexibility, fostering lasting growth both academically and personally.
This advanced certification allows our therapists to help students with learning differences grow in confidence and independence, equipping them with lifelong tools to learn effectively, adapt to challenges and reach their full potential.
ATHLETICS
Expanded Staffing
An additional physical education coach position was approved for the 2025–2026 school year to support the new motor learning and fine motor skills lab for prek4–first grade, as well as the newly established middle school Warrior FIT program.
Warrior Athletics Leadership Captains
The Warrior Athletics Leadership Captain Program entered its second year with 19 student-athletes elected as sports captains. Participants received leadership training and mentoring focused on teamwork, sportsmanship and leading by example.
Program & Facility Enhancements
• Purchased a Perry Weather System subscription to manage weather and safety protocols at Warrior Field.
• Upgraded custom game-day equipment for home volleyball and basketball games, including folding chairs, rugs and an LED score table.
• Added weight training equipment to support strength and conditioning for middle school students participating in the Warrior FIT program during their training off-season.
Coaching Development
First Baptist Academy coaches attended the FIT Leadership Summit at Baylor University, the TAPHERD Conference and the Gold Medal Squared Volleyball Clinic, advancing professional excellence and faith-driven leadership within the Warrior Athletics program.
ARTS
Middle School Fine Arts
The Middle School Fine Arts Program continues to flourish as students discover and express their God-given talents through performance, music and visual art. The production of Willy Wonka Jr. brought together 39 student performers and over 100 hours of rehearsal, showcasing teamwork, imagination and dedication. Middle school students also presented Christmas and Spring Fine Arts Chapels, featuring art, drama, ASL, Choir Club and band performances that showcased their unique gifts. Creativity extended beyond the stage as student artwork and digital designs were integrated into LED screen backdrops, choreography and special events such as FBA Day, Grandparents Day and the Donor Breakfast, allowing students to see their artistic gifts come to life throughout the school community.
Professional Collaboration
More than 1,000 hours of production support from the Houston’s First production team provided students with hands-on experience using industry-level stage, lighting and sound technology, transforming each performance and event into a professionalquality production while nurturing their skills and confidence in the performing arts.
Teachers who dream big ignite the unique gifts in every student.
Dream Big: From FBA to Prague
When our faculty were invited to dream big and imagine professional development opportunities that would stretch their skills and inspire their classrooms, Theatre Director Lyndsay Sweeney dreamed of Shakespeare. Her vision? To study the Bard’s works where centuries of actors have brought his words to life.
That dream took her all the way to the Prague Shakespeare Company’s Summer Intensive, an immersive training experience in the heart of Europe. Surrounded by artists from around the world and guided by masters of the craft, she spent her days and evenings diving deep into Shakespeare’s language, performance and timeless storytelling. The experience culminated in a breathtaking performance of King Lear, staged at the historic Prague Castle.
This unique opportunity not only strengthened her expertise in classical theater but also expanded her creative vision for First Baptist Academy’s theatre program. She returned energized and inspired, ready to provide students with fresh insight, innovative techniques and a deeper appreciation for the performing arts, showing how investing in our educators directly enriches the learning experience and helps every Warrior develop their unique, God-given gifts.
Her story is a reminder that when teachers are empowered to dream big, they return ready to ignite the same passion and pursuit of excellence in every student they teach at FBA.
Photo credit: Kaja Curtis Photography & Prague Shakespeare Company
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE THREE:
Engage a cohesive, supportive parent community.
Warrior Workshop: Entrepreneurial Mindset
Parents had the opportunity to participate in a firstever Warrior Workshop, learning from Stephen Carter of Seed Tree Group about applying growth mindset principles at home. An experienced entrepreneur and nationally recognized education consultant, Mr. Carter shared insights from his work developing engaging entrepreneurship programs, helping First Baptist Academy families understand how to nurture an entrepreneurial mindset in students both in school and at home.
All School Chapels
Launched in 2024–2025, All School Chapels have quickly become a pillar of community life, uniting families monthly in worship and teaching. Thirtythree middle school students lead the Middle School Worship Team, helping to guide their peers in praise and reflection, while All School Chaplain Chad Chambers provides biblical teaching for the entire Warrior community. Attendance continues to grow week after week, reflecting the excitement and engagement these gatherings inspire.
New Position Approved
The special events & parent liaison coordinator position plays a vital role in supporting the advancement department and fostering family engagement across First Baptist Academy. This role oversees and coordinates major events, including Book Fair Family Night, Grandparents Day, the Warriors on the Green Golf & Pickleball Tournament and the Dinner & Auction, while also providing ongoing support to the Warrior Parents Association and Warrior Athletics Booster Club. In addition, the position strengthens communication and collaboration among volunteers and room parents across divisions, ensuring that every event and initiative reflects FBA’s mission and builds a strong, connected school community.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVE FOUR:
Build a comprehensive plan for facilities that accommodates future growth.
Creating a Distinct Culture for Middle School Students
• Seventh & Eighth Grade Hallway: The installation of new flooring, a dedicated screen for digital signage and flexible, student-centered furniture created a distinct identity for our seventh and eighth graders, encouraging collaboration, independence and ownership of their learning environment while reinforcing their role as campus leaders.
• Expansion into the HUB: Access to new classrooms and lounge spaces within the church’s student ministry wing supports FBA’s growing programs and strengthens the middle school experience by fostering community, collaboration and belonging beyond the traditional classroom.
Enhancing Learning Spaces
• Primary Suite Upgrades: Both indoor playgrounds received new flooring and lighting, improving safety, comfort and functionality for our youngest learners.
• New Classrooms: Two new third-floor classrooms were added through Houston’s First Kainos Initiative, with First Baptist Academy funded state-of-the-art furniture and technology to create flexible, innovative learning environments that support modern instruction and continued enrollment growth.
Looking Ahead
First Baptist Academy leadership continues to partner with Houston’s First Baptist Church and Generis Consulting Group to evaluate next steps in campus expansion, ensuring facilities support future growth and specialized learning environments.
CAMPUS SAFETY AND SECURITY
The 2024-2025 school year marked significant advancements in safety and emergency preparedness, reinforcing our commitment to protecting students, faculty and staff.
Protective Window Film Installation
The installation of 3M™ Safety and Security Window Films across campus was completed in 2025. This upgrade holds shattered glass in place and protects against natural disasters, while also reducing heat and glare to improve energy efficiency and provides extra response time in case of an emergency.
This initiative was made possible through the leadership and generosity of three FBA families, Josh and Ashley Crescenzi, Kenny and Pam Duncan and Courtney and Kristine El-Zokm, whose major gifts, combined with contributions to The Warrior Fund, allowed FBA to bring this project to life for the benefit of the entire school community.
Internal Raptor Alert Application
In the 2024–2025 school year, First Baptist Academy expanded its Raptor safety technology to include Raptor Alert and began laying the groundwork to enhance emergency response and campus safety.
This technology strengthens FBA’s ability to respond quickly and effectively, safeguarding our community while supporting the school’s ongoing commitment to operational excellence.
BEYOND FBA
EQUIPPED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE – At First Baptist Academy, we often talk about our Portrait of a Graduate: students who are Steadfast in Truth, Overcomers, Uniquely Gifted, Difference Makers and Warriors. We are proud to share a glimpse of how the FBA Class of 2021, now high school graduates, are stepping boldly into the future, living out that vision with faith, purpose and passion.
Commitments
Acceptances
Our Warrior Alumni earned acceptances to over 29 top-tier colleges and prestigious programs across the country, including competitive institutions like Rice University, Penn State University and the University of Texas at Austin.
They have also been recognized for their academic excellence, leadership and God-given gifts, earning over $1.2 million in scholarships. Of the 25 alumni in this class, 16 received scholarships, with 12 earning awards of $50,000 or more. Three Warriors were recognized
with individual scholarships exceeding $120,000 each, and Baylor University alone awarded multiple scholarships to FBA alumni totaling more than $280,000. On average, each student received $57,404 in named scholarships. These awards reflect not only the caliber of the institutions offering them, but also the character, perseverance and missiondriven commitment of our students.
We celebrate each scholarship as a testament to their hard work and the FBA education that has equipped them to lead and serve with purpose.
ACADEMICS
Future Business Leader | This student was offered $140,000 in scholarships and accepted to Baylor University (Hankamer School of Business), Texas A&M University (Mays Business School) and the University of Texas (Moody College of Communications). This Warrior is graduating at the top of her senior class and will study business at Baylor!
Healthcare Standout | This student was accepted to Texas Christian University’s esteemed nursing program and awarded the Dean’s Scholarship.
Engineering Trailblazer | This student was accepted to the engineering programs at Baylor University, the University of Oklahoma, Pennsylvania State University and the University of Pittsburgh, and will study mechanical engineering on a biomedical pre-med track at Baylor.
From business and engineering to healthcare, the arts and athletics, our graduates are pursuing a wide range of disciplines and opportunities. Many were accepted into highly competitive programs and have earned spots in fields where they will lead and serve with excellence. Their journeys reflect the heart of our Portrait of a Graduate, equipped, called and ready to make a difference. Here, we highlight a few Warrior Alumni and the paths they are taking to live out their calling with excellence. Once a Warrior, always a Warrior!
ARTS
Uniquely Gifted Performer | Offered more than $200,000 in total scholarships across four schools, this student will attend the highly selective theatre program at Texas State University with a full four-year scholarship.
ATHLETICS
Dual-Sport Warrior | This student signed with Trinity University for baseball and football!
Gridiron Cadet | This Warrior has been offered to play football at the Naval Academy Prep School.
Resilient Competitor | This athlete will be competing with strength and grit in powerlifting at Texas A&M University.
First Baptist Academy Eighth Grade Class of 2021
Class of 2025 Senior Clap Out
OPERATING BUDGET
The First Baptist Academy Board of Trustees approves each annual budget with an intentional focus on mission-alignment and stewardship of our resources.
2024-2025 | TOTAL OPERATING BUDGET
(Year ended June 30, 2025)
EXPENSES
$11,045,000
SIGNIFICANT BALANCES & OPERATING METRICS
First Baptist Academy operates financially independent from Houston’s First Baptist Church, remaining debt-free. Total Value of Endowments
WHEN YOU SAY YES, YOU BRING OUR MISSION TO LIFE
When you SAY YES to The Warrior Fund, you enable FBA to say yes to the projects and initiatives that bring our mission to life. The impact is both immediate and eternal, equipping every student with the Truth of God’s Word while developing their character, intellect and potential to EXPLORE, CREATE, CHALLENGE and LEAD.
Tuition covers essential operations. The Warrior Fund makes the difference. As FBA’s annual, repeatable and dependable giving program, The Warrior Fund enhances the day-to-day operations that make our school exceptional, from classroom resources and student programs to faculty development and campus enhancements.
DINNER & AUCTION
WARRIORS ON THE GREEN
WARRIOR FUND
2024-2025 | TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025-2026
To allow for deeper donor cultivation throughout the year and steward resources wisely, First Baptist Academy will host one signature fundraising event per year, alternating between a gala and a golf and pickleball tournament. While our fundraising needs remain unchanged, this shift allows us to concentrate our energy and resources on one impactful event that brings our community together in a meaningful way.
SAVE THE DATE: March 23, 2026
Warriors on the Green Golf & Pickleball Tournament | Pine Forest Country Club
WARRIOR FUND
TOTAL RAISED:
$89,600
CHAIRS –SPONSORS –
PRESENTING
Andrews Family Foundation Scott and Kristin Oswald
GOLF The Hart Family
PICKLEBALL
HOLE-IN-ONE & WARRIOR DRIVE The Barton Family
LEAD SIGNAGE
BREAKFAST The Oswald Family
LUNCH The Whiteside Family
FBA EXPERIENCES
PRIZE
VOLUNTEER Sheridan Slater, Real Estate Agent
Warriors on the Green Chairs
CHAIRS –COMMITTEE –
Shane & Brittany Williams
Adrienne & David Bash
Rebecca & Peter Franklin
Tina & Zack Frewin
Kristin & Scott Oswald
SPONSORS –
PRESENTING
Andrews Family Foundation
BATTING PRACTICE
ORBIT & FRIENDS The Bash Family
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER
WORLD SERIES
The Cornett Family
The Crescenzi Family
The Davalos Family
The Duncan Family
The Hart Family
The Smith Family
FBA EXPERIENCES
Lindsey & Ford Peters
Karen & Kevin Smith
Tiffany & Heath Whitaker
Ashley & John Zumberge
PEANUTS & CRACKER JACKS
IN-KIND Summer Layne Designs
TOTAL RAISED: $267,600
Free Tuition Winners
Q&A Moment with Pastor Gregg & Lance Berkman
Auction Chairs
GIVING FOR GREATER IMPACT
At First Baptist Academy, every gift fuels our mission. As you consider your year-end giving, we invite you to explore giving options that may help you meet both your financial goals and your desire to make an eternal impact.
UNDERSTANDING THE ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL ACT
Have you considered the giving implications of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act?
Starting in 2026, OBBBA will introduce new limits on charitable deductions.
Key Changes Under the OBBBA
• Reduced Deduction Threshold: Beginning in 2026, only charitable donations exceeding 0.5% of your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) will qualify for a deduction.
• Cap for High-Income Earners: A new 35% cap on the tax benefit of itemized deductions will apply to higher-income taxpayers, potentially reducing the overall tax advantage of giving.
To qualify as tax-deductible for this year, all gifts must be postmarked or received by midnight on December 31, 2025.
A BIGGER IMPACT, A BETTER WAY TO GIVE
Giving through appreciated assets or retirement distributions presents a unique opportunity where your generosity and financial goals align. It is a way to invest in Kingdom work that is not only meaningful, but is also wise stewardship of your assets.
Give Through Appreciated Stocks and Multiply Your Impact
When you give appreciated stock or other investments directly to FBA, you may be able to avoid capital gains taxes while also receiving a charitable tax deduction for the full fair market value of your gift.
Giving Through Your IRA
If you’re 70 and a half or older, you can make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) directly from your traditional IRA to First Baptist Academy without paying income tax on the distribution amount.
This giving method can be especially beneficial if you don’t itemize deductions or are already required to take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs).
We encourage you to discuss your unique circumstances with a personal tax advisor.
WAYS TO GIVE
We invite your family to prayerfully consider giving to The Warrior Fund in the following ways:
CREDIT CARD ONLINE: one-time gift monthly or yearly recurring gift* fbahouston.org/warriorfund
BY CHECK:
payable to First Baptist Academy 7450 Memorial Woods Drive Houston, Texas 77024
TRANSFER OF STOCK: contact the Advancement Office advancement@hfba.org 713.290.2525
*Recurring gift options are limited to those with portal access at this time.
A LEGACY OF IMPACT
A LEGACY OF IMPACT – Putting together this impact report allows me to reflect on the generosity of our community and the countless ways the Warrior Family comes together year after year to support the mission and vision of First Baptist Academy. One couple’s impact, in particular, is hard to measure, but it paints a beautiful picture of what faithful giving looks like and how it can transform lives for generations to come.
Since the Langfords joined Houston’s First Baptist Church in 1962, Obie served as a deacon for over 40 years, while Mary Lyn dedicated four decades as the church clerk and sang in the choir. Together, they faithfully taught Sunday School for 50 years,
leading countless children to know the Lord as their personal Savior. Obie also played a pivotal role in the development of Northwest Academy, Houston Christian High School and First Baptist Academy, serving on their boards and helping lay the foundation that we stand on today.
Obie and Mary Lyn’s daughters graduated from Northwest Academy, FBA’s predecessor school, in the ‘80s. But their support didn’t stop there. Each year, Obie makes his way to FBA to drop off his check because he and Mary Lyn understand the eternal impact of Christian education on a family. Their generosity isn’t about recognition or obligation; it’s about faithfulness and a deep belief that what happens here matters for generations to come.
Honoring Obie and Mary Lyn Langford at the Take Me Out to the Ballpark Dinner and Auction in February 2025
I know many of the families they have impacted firsthand, one being my own. I began kindergarten at Northwest Academy in 1990, just a few years after the Langford girls graduated, stepping into a story their faithfulness helped write. Their giving and guidance could have ended when their own daughters walked the stage, but instead, Obie continued to lead through a major season of growth and change. He played a key role in realizing the vision for a non-denominational Christian high school in Houston and in bringing Northwest Academy’s lower and middle school onto the Houston’s First campus.
The fruits of their obedience shaped the trajectory of my life, my siblings’ lives and my parents’ lives. My mom began working at Northwest Academy 28 years ago, continuing to serve faithfully at FBA today. Now, my own daughters are living out the very legacy the Langfords helped build, and I have the privilege of carrying it forward, both personally and in my work to unite our Warrior community in continuing what they began.
I share this story as an encouragement to each of you who give - one family’s faithfulness can ripple through generations. The Langfords’ steadfast commitment inspires me to give faithfully long after my own daughters have graduated, so that the next generation can experience the same Christ-centered education, community and transformation that they made possible. Their legacy will continue to shape lives for Christ for generations to come.
TIFFANY WHITAKER Director of Advancement Parent of FBA Class of 2032 & 2033 FBA Alumni Class of 1999
SCHOOL-CHURCH PARTNERSHIP
A PARTNERSHIP IN MISSION
The relationship between Houston’s First Baptist Church and First Baptist Academy provides both spiritual grounding and organizational capacity, which are key to our unique mission. While it is difficult to assign an exact dollar value, this partnership promotes stewardship, enhances sustainability and supports the school in offering a transformative Christian education.
USE OF CHURCH-SUPPORTED AND SHARED FACILITIES
The shared facilities for FBA and Houston’s First Baptist Church are maintained in accordance with a shared services agreement. FBA’s tuition and school-led fundraising help cover the cost of FBA’s portion. We are thankful to Houston’s First Baptist Church for primarily maintaining key facilities critical to the school’s mission. These include the Fitness & Recreation Center, the Lawn at the Loop, Fellowship Center, Chapel and Worship Center. In addition, the school and church share
the costs for facilities including the south tower, Oasis lunchroom, both playgrounds and Warrior Field. Both also collaborate to cover broader needs like campus maintenance, technology infrastructure, security, operations personnel and insurance, among other shared expenses. Without these resources, the school would be unable to carry out the full scope of its mission.
MEMBER SUBSIDY FOR PREK3–EIGHTH GRADE
Houston’s First Baptist Church provides a 15 percent tuition subsidy for prek3 through eighth grade students who are also members of the church. This direct contribution feeds into the school’s annual operating budget. This support helps make a Christcentered education more accessible for families committed to the mission of both the school and the church.
FBA Day at Houston’s First 2024
HFBC Staff & FBA Kick Off 2024
2024 2025
Andrews Family Foundation
Matthew and Amy Barton
David and Adrienne Bash
Kal Yeau and Ivonne Chiok
Conoco Phillips
Justin and Mary Cornett
Josh and Ashley Crescenzi
Chris and Amy D’Agostino
Joseph and Kimberly Dang
Omar and Haley Davalos
Erik and Rachel David
Richard and Pamela Duncan
Courtney and Kristine El-Zokm
Robert and Nan Franklin
Darlene Freeman
Zachary and Amy Hart
Obie and Mary Lyn Langford
Brett and Amy Moody
Christopher and Sara Newton
Scott and Kristin Oswald
Richard and Jennifer Ponce
Shell USA Company Foundation
Philip and Katherine Silberman
Kevin and Karen Smith
Bill and Phyllis Staib
Paolo and Kathryn Thompson
Louis and Mary Torregrossa
Tracy and Elma Lee Lawrence Foundation
Warrior Parents Association
Heath and Tiffany Whitaker
Chad and Kelley Whiteside
In honor of our founding year, 1998, donors who make a gift of $1,998 or more gain membership to the Warrior Legacy Club. Only direct gifts and Warrior Fund event sponsorships qualify a donor for membership, but their generosity doesn’t stop there. This year, the Warrior Legacy Club contributed over $243,000 through direct gifts and other fundraising opportunities.
IMPACT PARTNERS
IMPACT PARTNERS
– The following list recognizes current families, alumni families, grandparents, faculty and staff, past and current trustees, Houston’s First Baptist Church members, corporations and foundations who united together to strengthen the mission of First Baptist Academy through generous gifts, event sponsorships and purchases at fundraising events such as tickets, tables and auction items. Each contribution, no matter the size, reflects a shared belief in the lasting impact of Christian education enabling First Baptist Academy to equip students with the Truth of God’s Word while developing their character, intellect and potential to explore, create, challenge and lead.
$25,000+
Andrews Family Foundation
Josh and Ashley Crescenzi
Tracy & Elma Lee Lawrence Foundation
$10,000-$24,999
David and Adrienne Bash
Omar and Haley Davalos
Erik and Rachel David
Richard and Pamela Duncan
Zachary and Amy Hart
Philip and Katherine Silberman
Bill and Phyllis Staib
$5,000-$9,999
Robert and Tammera Allaway
Warrior Parents Association
Matthew and Amy Barton
Kal Yeau and Ivonne Chiok
Justin and Mary Cornett
Chris and Amy D’Agostino
Joseph and Kimberly Dang
Herbert and Paula Dixon
Courtney and Kristine El-Zokm
Robert and Nan Franklin
Brett and Amy Moody
Richard and Jennifer Ponce
Edward Rutherford and Jessica McCreary
Kyle and Allie Schielack
Kevin and Karen Smith
Chad and Kelley Whiteside
$1,000-$4,999
Andrew and Paige Alvis
Jason and Susannah Baker
Jeremi and Elizabeth Ball
Brandon and Meredith Bingham
Fuller and Kolbi Blanchette
Lochlin and Brooke Bramlett
David and DeNadia Brannon
Michelle Carney
Chad and Teresa Chambers
Josh and Dahlia Collier
Conoco Phillips
Chase Cribbs
Shell USA Company Foundation
David and Kasey de Jonckheere
Jacob and Rachel Dill
Matthew and Shannon Essex
Darlene Freeman
Jeremy and Heather Hafemann
William and Stephanie Harrell
David and Candace Helstrom
Craig and Donna Hester
Brian and Emily Kirkpatrick
Obie and Mary Lyn Langford
Robert and Katrina Lee
Jeremy and Katherine Morgan
Joel and Kathie Muller
Michael and Jessica Murphy
Christopher and Sara Newton
Jason and Christy Nolingberg
Scott and Kristin Oswald
Nancy Pipes
WARRIOR ALUMNI
Warrior Alumni, graduates of First Baptist Academy and its predecessor, Northwest Academy, embody the lasting impact of an FBA education. They continue to lead with excellence in their communities, careers and families. Many remain closely connected to the school, choosing to share that same meaningful experience with their own children and strengthening the legacy of our Warrior community.
Christopher and Summer Rial
Chris and Amy Rollo
Garrett Sears
Dustin and Sheridan Slater
Robert and Ashley Somers
Chris and Angel Stefaniak
Jackson and Jaclyn Taylor
Texas Library Association
Paolo and Kathryn Thompson
Louis and Mary Torregrossa
Stephen and Tonya Trammell
Steven and Pamela Varney
Joseph and Melissa Wakeland
Jared and Kasey Wallace
Marquis and Nedra Wallace
Jordan and Ashley West
Heath and Tiffany Whitaker
Vincent and Dana White
William and Lindy Wilhite
Shane and Brittany Williams
John and Ashley Zumberge
$500-$999
Carl and Letitia Baker
Brian and Jaime Ball
Gregory and Carrie Bowden
Tyler and Lizzie Bradshaw
Dennis and Marcia Brando
Thomas and Daphne Carman
William and Marika Carpenter
Lindsey Cauthen
Paul Chumreonlert
Ethan and Emily Cook
Cody and Kate Cooper
Aaron and Stephanie Diehl
Robert and Leanne Foster
Peter and Rebecca Franklin
Zack and Christina Frewin
Chris and Kristin Hawkinson
Gabriel and Angela Ianculovici
James and Chelsea Jowers
Braden and Amy Keith
Andrew and Laura Loreman
Shulin Ma and Revee Chan
Jeffrey and Ashley Mallett
Brian and Kimberly Mathis
Kyle and Taryn Mitchan
Stephen and Julie Mitchell
Pamela Netter
Austin and Courtney Rice
Jacob and Meredith Roberts
Vickie Robinson
JW Sikora
Jason and Kimberly Syrinek
Lyndon and Barbara Tiu
Addison and Taylor Turner
Warrior Athletics Booster Club
Jeff and Sarah Watts
IMPACT PARTNERS
IMPACT PARTNERS
UP TO $500
Clarissa Abeja
Kaylee Alexander
Syed Ali and Caroline Dunn-Ali
American Online Giving Foundation, Inc.
Allee Ammons
Marcus and Stephanie Anderson
Alvaro and Cristina Apresa
Alfred and Brenda Arcache
Melissa Arvizu
Terence and Jessica Barnes
David and Karen Bartholomew
Ryan and Katherine Baumgartner
Stephanie Bernal
Logan and Brooks Bohn
Tim and Dianna Bolton
Ryley and Cody Brown
Andrew and Dianne Brown
Stacie Brown
Sheila Budzise
Joao and Helena Bukuso
Preston and May Burkett
Laura Camp
Carla Canales
Dawn Canales
Kristell Carr
Carolina Cartagena
Christina Castillo
Paula Castro
Phil and Christine Chaluparambil
James Chang and Erin Foster
Azlly Chaparro
Sue Chatham
Elizabeth Chelvam
Jin Hui James Cheng and Sandy Chua
Wayne and Jeanie Cherry
Yesu and Jaelyn Chum
Eduardo and Shelby Cisneros
Marie Cleary
Drew and Terri Clementz
Brad Coffey
Andy and Delia Cole
Gettie Consolabe
Jeb and Alisa Cox
Noris Crabtree
Jim and Melody Crain
Russell and Jeanie Cravens
Joseph and Jessica Cudjoe
Alexander and Naila Curl
Maritza Davila
John and Jennifer Demeris
Laura Denning
Aja Dillard-West
Daniel and Alyson Dixon
Suzette Dixon
Lam Doan and Van Nguyen
Collin and Madison Dobbs
GENEROSITY IN EVERY GRADE
Infants
Percentages include all parent direct giving to The Warrior Fund as well as event participation.
Rhonda Dobbs
David and Phoebe Dominy
Joel and Claire Douthit
Andrew and Lynne Dowell
Andrew and Sara Downie
Paul and Sarah Duncan
Tim and Rebecca Dunne
Eva Duran
Ali Durkee
Darin Durkee
Benjamin and Katherine Eisterhold
Ricardo and Amy Escobar
Fatima Falcon
Marshall and Meredith Feltmann
Uche and Robbie Ferguson
Deborah Flowers
Justin and Lauren Futch
Richard and Krystal Galatian
Alexander Galley and Inna Tsybulkina
Alejandra Gamez
Mario and Julie Garcia
Glenn and Asha George
Erika and Ryan Gersch
Adam Gibson and Michaela Schirra
Bryan and Maria Glass
William and Yoshina Glenn
Brad and Beka Gray
Christian and Delgermaa Green
Ashley Greer
Garrett and Callie Griffin
John and Kristina Gunn
Diana Gutierrez
Diane Gwyn
Caroline Harrington
Robert and Ronna Harris
Marcy Harwell Clark
Karah and Nick Heim
Linda Hernandez
Aurora Herrera
Glen Hicks and Kristen Beasley
Sandy Hill
Cheryl Hollie
Marshall and Claire Holmes
Ian and Mallory Idleman
Seth Ireland
Charles and Amber Ivey
Graham and Lonna Jenks
Carson and Maegan Joachim
Greg Johnson
Justin and Danielle Jordan
Tom and Kelly Jover
Valentino and Christa Julien
Alec and Seelva Kalajian
Nareg and Renee Kalajian
Eric Kebodeaux
Juan and Rebecca Kemp
Brady Kirkpatrick
Michael and Krystyna Kling
Robert and Younghee Knight
Christine Kurien
Ronald LaBorde and Lisa Sedgwick LaBorde
David and Victoria Lanza
Peggy Lebrun
Michael and Cheryl Lehane
Audrey Lilley
Derrick Lin and Diane Lee
Donna and Dave Lockwood
Monica Lopez
Linh Luu
Shulin Ma and Revee Chan
Alejandro and Liza Macias
Floyd and DeAnn Mahanay
Jessica and Romer Maldonado
Mike and Kenzie Malkemes
Lorita Malveaux
Hunter and Megan Marsh
Jud and Lindsey Martin
Norma Martinez
Melanie Martinsen
Mario and Melissa Mascione
Wally and Erin Mathiasen
Nathan and Megan Mazzapica
IMPACT PARTNERS
IMPACT PARTNERS
James and Jubilee McGuire
David and Hoa McKay
Donald and Margaret McKay
Marilyn McKinney
Cory and Natalie McMahon
Elena McPherson
Kelsey and Jason Miller
Samantha Montealvo
Francisco and Erin Montoya
Christian and Elizabeth Moore
Rebecca Morales
Charlene Morgan
Joshua and Seliece Morrow
Elena Moya
Von Nacpil
Afif and Kayla Najjar
Derrick and Alaina Nickerson
Bryan O’Connor and Kimberly Stitham
Judy Oelke
Ivon Olvera
Jonathan Paez and Celeste Molina
Andrew Pena and Jennifer McTopy-Pena
Eduardo and Lilia Percia
Ford and Lindsey Peters
Rhonda Phillips
Kate Phuah
Manette Pierce
Amanda Powell
Hunter and Madison Powell
Kingsley and Prisca Pungong
Lautaro Putallaz and Rocio Paez
Michael and Sharon Rager
Maricela Ramos
Lane and Amanda Ransom
Jenni Razeghi
Tracey Reilly Baird
Jeinni Reyes Bermudez
David and Bertha Rials
James and Cayla Richardson
Emma Rocha
Andy and Carol Rodgers
Timothy and Anne Rondou
Sabrina Ross
Queidi Rubio
Michael and Brooke Sabo
Ruth Samuel
Elisa Schimank
Ruth Schenau
Rick and Wanda Sdao
Tina Searcy
Julie Seifert
Harrison and Kathryn Sellers
Renee Shaffer
Lisa Shepherd
Clinton and Chitua Short
Jacob and Julia Shuman
Jordan and Jacqueline Singer
Derek Slater
Jennifer Slavens
Bryce and Hayley Smolen
Edward and Lindsay Soontiraratn
Kevin and Marlen Spivey
Laura and Joseph Dougharty
Bridgette Stinnett
Matthew and Christina Stirneman
DeLisa Strege
Lyndsay Sweeney
Tammy Swint
Scott and Emily Tallman
Josh and Cheryl Teekell
John Tharp
Adrianna Theobalds
Justin and Chanel Thomas
Linda Thompson
Allen Thornton and Eileen Wells
Linda Thrower
Amanda Totten
Duong Tran and Nha Vo
Tamara Tran
Matt and Jessica Trozzo
Donald and Sarah Tuangtuang
Katherine Urroz
Sarahi Vega
Sebastian and Emily Viladot
Genesis Villanueva
Sarah Villegas
Thanh and Aimee Vu
Waverly Walk
Cory and Betsy Walker
Corey Washington
Erica Washington
Tommy and Sonda Watts
Joey and Maggie Weaver
Coty Werner
Patience White
Rebecca White
Connor and Megan Wiginton
Kimberly Willey
D’angela Williams
Darryl and Alisa Williams
Kourtney Wilson
Sandra Wilson
William and Elizabeth Wood
Matthew Woods and Kindra Wessel
Tanya Wooley
Joseph and Crystal Wright
Abigail Wysocki
Jason and Katy Young
Andrew and Elizabeth Zacharias
Jenifer Zak
Xiang Chen and Ting Zhang
Blake and Meg Zisman
Christopher and Kelly Zwern
Gift matched by employer
Faculty and staff member
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of donor names and giving levels listed in this report. We sincerely apologize for any errors or omissions. Please contact the advancement office at advancement@hfba.org if you notice an inaccuracy so that we may correct our records.
FACULTY & STAFF LEAD THE WAY – At First Baptist Academy, our faculty and staff don’t just teach the mission, they live it. Achieving 100 percent participation in giving to The Warrior Fund, their collective generosity raised $33,124 in support of our students and school. This milestone is a powerful reflection of their belief in FBA’s mission and their daily commitment to excellence in Christian education. Every gift, regardless of size, fuels classroom innovation, enriches student programs and strengthens the foundation of faith and learning that defines the Warrior experience.
IMPACT PARTNERS
Warrior Alumni
Faculty & staff internal Warrior Fund kick off
