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Distinguished Scholar Class of 2025 Profile

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SCHOLARS OF 2025 - SENIOR PROFILES

HOUSTON CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL

Houston Christian’s Distinguished Scholars Program offers students the opportunity to become scholars for life–scholars who master the building blocks of learning, strive to know more, explore new ideas and perspectives, and are driven to reach a level of expertise in a chosen field of study. The Distinguished Scholars Program is designed to be a social and collaborative endeavor that creates a bridge to other disciplines and fosters a passion for seeking knowledge.

T he Distinguished Scholars Program is an avenue for Scholars to discover, develop, and strengthen the gifts that God has given them as they engage in critical thinking, research, and public speaking. Because of the nature of this distinctive program, students must apply for acceptance and maintain an impeccable academic record throughout their tenure at Houston Christian. Tonight, we celebrate the Scholar class of 2025 for their outstanding accomplishments in DSP and successfu l completion of the program.

Program Proficiencies

• Develop analytical thought

• Dissect philosophical and ethical perspectives

• Debate current and cultural events within a biblical perspective

• Learn APA format and research skills

• Gather and analyze data for quantitative and qualitative research

• Improve public speaking and communication skills

• Produce and present original empirical research projects

• Develop a final thesis in discipline of choice

Houston Christian’s Scholars and Leaders serve as points of light to the world, following in the footsteps of President and Mrs. Bush.

Research Abstract

Seeing through a new lens: Social media literacy made simple with AI

We now live in an age of information governed by social media. Our phones, computers, and smartwatches are no longer mere recreational devices, but instead are vital items of our everyday lives that offer us a direct look into the workings of the world. Unfortunately, the positive qualities of social media that are enhancing our ability to communicate are the very same negative qualities that are devaluing the truth, as misinformation and bias plague our recommended pages. With recent “AI” advancements and the ever-growing prevalence of social media, the risk of mass online corruption and polarization only becomes greater. In order to preserve the truth, we need to adapt. We must observe social media through a new Lens. This qualitative study seeks to add to the conversation about navigating AI and maintaining truth.

Bauer Burttschell

Son of Bernadette and Heath Burttschell

Mustang Choral President •

National Honor Society Student Administrator • Student Council Representative • Lead Student Ambassador • Junior Classical League Chaplain •

Multiple Lead roles in HC Theatreworks productions • The Future Lawyers of America Club President • Tommy Tune Nominated Actor •

National Latin Exam Magna Cum Laude Award Winner • Andrew Webb Scholarship 2022 Recipient •

College: University of Texas at San Antonio

Major: Political Science on a Pre-Law Track

Research Abstract

The Anorexia Effect: The relationship between pro-anorexia content and algorithms on social media and anorexia development in adolescent and young adult females

This study aims to identify the influence of social media content on adolescent and young adult females aged 14 to 25 by examining correlations between social media use and scores on anorexia behavioral tests. It also explores how anorexia is internalized and spread through recurring content themes, highlighting the potential role of pro-anorexia algorithms. A mixed-method approach was used, including a quantitative survey measuring EDE-Q, SCOFF, and Social Media Frequency Scores, along with a qualitative content analysis coded using existing proanorexia literature. The quantitative survey gathered responses from 62 females aged 14 to 25 within the Houston Christian community. For the qualitative portion, 360 posts from TikTok, Tumblr, and Instagram were analyzed across four categories: fitspiration, thinspiration, pro-anorexia, and pro-recovery. Most respondents reported using image-based platforms most frequently, spent one to two hours daily on social media, and answered “no” to all SCOFF questions except “Do you feel bad about yourself because of your weight, shape, or eating habits?” In the qualitative analysis, TikTok exhibited the highest level of theme agreement—defined by the consistent presence of three dominant themes in each content section. These themes included personal statements, body part emphasis, the reality of anorexia, and references to eating disorders. While time spent on social media showed no significant correlation with EDE-Q and SCOFF scores, higher scores were associated with the use of image- or video-based platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest. Additionally, participants’ perceptions of social media’s impact (measured through the Social Media Use and Well-Being scale) showed a strong positive relationship with both EDE-Q and SCOFF scores. Thinspiration had the strongest links to pro-anorexia, suggesting it may be evolving into a form of pro-anorexia content. Overlaps were also found between pro-anorexia and pro-recovery content, raising concerns that harmful themes may be influencing recovery spaces. These findings suggest that content type and platform significantly affect eating disorder-related behaviors.

Mckayla Childs

Daughter of Deborah and Richard Childs

• National Honors Society (Vice President of Public Relations)

• AP Scholar with Distinction

• Varsity Cross Country

• Varsity Track & Field

• Varsity Tennis

• Model United Nations (Secretary)

• Soles4Souls Ambassador

• EyeCan Alliance Ambassador

• Andrew Webb Scholarship Recipient

• Discipleship Group Leader

College: Rice University

Major: Business and Economics

Research Abstract

Actions speak louder than words: An examination of the public statements and operations of five companies in the context of the Russo-Ukrainian War

Over the past few years, numerous international conflicts such as the Russo-Ukrainian War, U.S.-China tensions, and the Israel-Hamas conflict have impacted business operations. Businesses have been forced to make decisions surrounding their next steps and responses to the ethical dilemmas posed by these conflicts. Some businesses have adjusted to the political tensions in part by releasing public statements unveiling their stance in the conflict and their future actions. However, this raises the question of whether or not companies’ actions match the attitudes conveyed in their public statements. With that in mind, this study involves a discourse analysis of the public statements of five businesses (Geoplin, Barilla, Legal and General, TomTom, International Olympic Committee) in the context of the Russo-Ukrainian War. Using these five companies as case studies, each public statement was manually analyzed for key phrases that imply their position in the Russo-Ukrainian War. Through the use of artificial intelligence, the companies’ public statements were ranked from most in favor of Russia to most in favor of Ukraine. Such findings regarding the public statements were compared to the operational stance of the businesses determined by the Yale CELI Database List of Companies Leaving and Staying in Russia. This list contains the degree of each company’s withdrawal from Russia by giving each company a grade A through F that reflects the “completeness” of their withdrawal. In short, this research uses five companies as case studies to examine whether or not the public statements of certain companies align with the stances implied through their operations. These findings help provide a lens by which consumers should view the public statements of businesses.

Sophia Kuo

Daughter of Michael and Sarah Kuo

National Honor Society (President) • Asian Culture Club (President) • Orchestra (President and Viola Section Leader)•

National Merit Scholar • Bush Center ISLP Student Intern • Varsity Tennis (SPC Champions) • All-SPC Tennis Player • AP Scholar With Honors •

TPSMEA All-State Violist •

TMTA Solo Piano State Finalist • Texas Bluebonnet Girls State • Presidential Service Award •

College: Duke University

Major: Public Policy

Research Abstract

Healthcare professionals' views on myopia control: A thematic exploration of current practices

This study explores the barriers preventing individuals from using myopia control and prevention methods, focusing on healthcare researchers' and practitioners' perspectives. Five healthcare professionals were interviewed to gain insights into their perceptions of effective myopia control strategies. Thematic analysis revealed several key themes, including myopia development and risk factors, control strategies, and common barriers such as lack of resources, poor doctor-patient communication, and misinformation. Respondents also emphasized the importance of viewing myopia as a disease, prioritizing prevention over treatment, and considering atropine use. The findings highlight the gap between knowledge of myopia risk factors and their application in everyday practice. By understanding these barriers, this study aims to help improve the use of myopia prevention methods and guide future research. Although limited in scope, the results offer valuable insights into enhancing myopia control and prevention efforts in healthcare settings.

Lillian Lemasters

Daughter of Brian and Denise Lemasters

• Model UN President

• Interact Club President

• NHS VP of Accountability

• Diversity Club Secretary

• HC Theatreworks Member

• D-Groups Leader

• Mustang Choir Member

• Passport to Lead

• Western Art Academy Graduate

College: University of Texas at Austin

Major: Biochemistry on the Pre-Med Track

Research Abstract

Aphantasia’s Implications for consciousness

Aphantasia, the inability to visualize mental images, offers a unique lens through which to reexamine and redefine consciousness and its requirements. People with aphantasia are known to live normal and successful lives despite this seemingly huge hindrance to their thought process. This raises the question of what is required to have a normal conscious experience. This essay explores the implications of aphantasia on both ancient and new definitions of consciousness, suggesting that the condition challenges long-standing assumptions about what is required of conscious experience. In the past, consciousness has often been defined by the presence of vivid mental imagery, with philosophers from Aristotle to Descartes claiming that the ability to visualize is a fundamental aspect of conscious experience. Even today, many theories of consciousness, such as the Integrated Information Theory (IIT) and Global Workspace Theory (GWT), place a strong emphasis on the role of imagery or other cognitive processes. However, with a new discovery of aphantasia and other mental differences these criteria are called into question. This research proposes that new conceptual frameworks and definitions for consciousness must account for the diversity of minds that truly exists in our world, including aphantasia, which challenges the imagery-dependent model of consciousness. Also discussed are counterarguments, such as the support of imagery as a necessary part of consciousness or the definition of aphantasia as an outlier from a traditional conscious experience. With the existence of aphantasia, an argument is made for a non-image-based definition of consciousness that accounts for other aspects of consciousness such as verbal thinking, reasoning, emotional awareness. This new definition should also be include numerous differences in mental experience, not just those without mental imagery. Ultimately, this research seeks to redefine consciousness as a multifaceted phenomenon that goes beyond traditional models and is inclusive of varying mental experiences.

Blaire McLarry

Daughter of Julie McLarry, Justin Homfeld, Brandon Amador, and Rachel Amador

National Honor Society Member • D-Group Member and Leader • Recycling Committee Head • Chorale Member and Social Officer • HC Theatreworks • Passport to Lead Participant • Future Lawyers of America Club Member • Camp Counselor a Grace Ranch •

College: Mays Business School at Texas A&M University

Major: Business

Research Abstract

The flaws and strengths of current radiation-based cancer treatments

In radiation-based cancer treatments, there is a possibility of developing secondary cancers from the ionizing radiation. In an attempt to analyze this facet of the field and provide a necessary comparison of these treatments, this study analyzes the efficacies of radiation-based cancer treatments to ascertain which are best in terms of secondary cancer prevention and overall patient safety. This study aims to answer the question: if we can’t completely get rid of radiation-based treatments, then how can we best protect patients to make the cancer treatment process the most seamless. In a mixed methods approach, this study presents a narrative inquiry in a clinic for the qualitative facet of the research, outlining an experience shadowing a breast oncologist and an interview and tour of facilities with a pediatric oncologist. Then, to address the quantitative facet of this research, this study performs a regression analysis from data gathered from various databases on methods of radiation-based treatment gathered from the interview, with the gained knowledge and judgment from the shadowing of the breast oncologist. From there, further analysis is performed on the efficacies of the treatments from the regression analysis in comparison to the current impression that the field of oncology has about them, in an attempt to reform our current ideas about the treatments and ameliorate radiation-based treatments to protect patients. Essentially, this research aims to provide insight into a better future, attempting to mitigate the stress from oncology treatment for patients who may not know what they are getting into.

Sydney McMeans

Daughter of Lindsay and Christopher McMeans

• National Honor Society

• Discipleship Group Leader

• Adolescent Ministry at Houston’s First Baptist

• Digestive Health Associates Medical Assistant

• Varsity Track & Field

College: Trinity University

Major: Psychology

Research Abstract

The power of dopamine: Finding an understanding of dopamine and its correlation with social media addiction and mood disorders

In recent years, the mental health crisis has escalated dramatically, prompting questions about the factors driving this surge. One major change in modern life is the rise of smartphones and advanced digital communication, which has transformed how people interact and process information. Exploring the potential connection between mental health decline and technology use is crucial for understanding the rise in psychological distress and addictive behaviors. This study aimed to reveal the potential mental health consequences of prolonged smartphone use, particularly how it may affect dopamine, a neurotransmitter tied to reward and motivation. The research utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining a survey and interviews to gather data from Generation Z participants. Both qualitative and quantitative data indicated that social media use triggers dopamine release, reinforcing compulsive usage and emotional dependence. Notably, 64.6% of respondents reported feeling anxious without their phones. Excessive phone use was associated with diminished attention spans, reduced deep thinking, weakened social skills, and a preference for instant gratification. Social media also contributed to negative body image and increased stress, particularly among younger users. These patterns of behavior, driven by dopamine reinforcement, reflect a growing dependency on technology for emotional regulation.

Kiersten Reed Daughter of Grant and Stephanie Reed

Young Life Member •

Discipleship Group Member and Leader • National Honor Society Member • Distinguished Scholars Program • Passport to Lead •

Varsity Basketball •

Varsity Volleyball •

Varsity Field Hockey •

Varsity Track & Field •

College: University of Arkansas

Major: Biology with a minor in Psychology

Research Abstract

The people in the pew: An examination of the decisions and values that lead people to church

There are over 45,000 Christian denominations worldwide. This is due to a variety of reasons, particularly in the United States, such as doctrinal divisions, differences in response to social issues, and differing beliefs regarding gender roles. With so many denominations, there are numerous options of churches for people all across the United States. The variety of options allows for people to join and leave churches many times until they can find the right fit. In an effort to understand the circumstances surrounding the decisions to either join or leave a church, this study uses a qualitative research model, particularly a narrative inquiry, that involves oral and written interviews. The participants attended various churches across the Houston area. Respondents showed a passion for the church and the body of Christ here on Earth. The results showcased the vitality of community in the choice of a church, as well as a desire for spiritual growth led by sound doctrine. Furthermore, numerous participants highlighted the need for missions and service-minded churches when deciding where to attend. Christians value cultivating a tight-knit community in their churches, and their values influence their decision making process. This research offers insight into the values of churchgoers and may help churches influence their communities into coming back week after week.

Hailey Stagner

Daughter of Barney and Dena Stagner

• Varsity Field Hockey

• Varsity Soccer

• Varsity Lacrosse Captain

• D-Group Member and Leader

• Passport to Lead

• Young Life

• Bible Study Chaplain

• AP Scholar

• National Merit Commended Scholar

• Circle of Friends Volunteer

• Books for Development Volunteer and Committee Head

• National Honor Society Vice President of Records

• Model UN Officer

College: Texas A&M University

Major: Engineering

Research Abstract

The Right to Die: Understanding of the psychology and legality behind physician assisted suicide and euthanasias

Physician-Assisted Suicide, otherwise known as Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), has remained controversial in many different parts of the world. In order to find why this treatment is so controversial, my research examines terminology and how it affects both the psychology and legality behind this treatment, leading to the following research question: Does the way someone refers to Physician-Assisted Suicide differ between different areas of the world, and how does this difference in terminology affect the way people view this treatment? This question was based on terminology for the purpose of looking for the reason that different cultures and countries view assisted dying. This qualitative study was conducted through a single interview and four different email correspondence that showed the terminology in four different countries. This information was analyzed and compared to find the difference between how each country refers to this treatment and if the treatment is accepted in its prospective countries. This research will show how the words that people use can affect the way that they view certain medical treatments.

Kate Stahl Daughter of John and Marisa Stahl

Junior Varsity Volleyball • Varsity Lacrosse • DSP Social Media Manager • GlobeTrek Attendee (Southeast Asia) • Passport to Lead • Young Life • National Honor Society • Discipleship Group Leader • Student Ambassador • Camp Mustang Counselor •

College: The University of Oklahoma Major: Journalism

Research Abstract

AI and nuclear fusion: Predicting the stability of tokamak reactors via LSTM machine learning

Tokamak nuclear fusion reactors exhibit the most promising form of stable fusion energy creation, but are still prone to events where the fusing hydrogen plasma becomes unstable and difficult to control. An event where this uncontrolled plasma dissipates and releases potentially reactor-damaging energy is known as a disruption, and disruptions pose significant danger to future reactor designs much larger than tokamaks currently in existence. This study seeks to apply known methods of disruption prediction using Long-Short-term memory (LSTM) machine learning to the J-TEXT tokamak, through a “hyperparameter variation” approach, to find the best-performing plasma feature and parameter combination for a small LSTM. Model parameters and features used are compared against accuracy. This research study is currently ongoing and in joint collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Plasma Science and Fusion and General Atomics facilities, along with the J-TEXT tokamak experiment in Wuhan, China, as part of a larger study involving transferable disruption prediction, where the trained machine learning model is applied to a set of data from the DIII-D tokamak in an attempt to achieve high prediction accuracy without retraining.

Nathaniel Sun

Son of George and Laurie Sun

• American Nuclear Society

• Band - Percussion Ensemble

• Drumline - Captain

• Jazz Band - Pianist

• Open Water Swim club - President & Founder

• Spirge Software, LLC - Founder

• StangTech BEST Robotics

• StangTech FIRST Tech - Team Lead & founder

• Varsity Swim Team

College: Texas A&M University

Major: Applied/Computational Mathematics and Physics, with a minor in Computer Science

Research Abstract

An internal divide: Understanding the development of Hispanic and American culture in academics

American culture is defined by its diversity: a distinct environment composed of generations from countless countries across the globe. Unfortunately, the positives of this unique mix are not without their drawbacks. This confusing environment is especially arduous for adolescents who are in a vulnerable period of development. Furthermore, as the largest minority in America, there is growing concern for Hispanic culture’s position in this country’s diverse environment. In consideration of the complexity of both the adolescent and Hispanic-American experiences, this research began with a literature review of current discourse regarding Hispanic-American adolescents’ familial, cultural, linguistic, and health-related development. The purpose of this study then shifted to research the effects of Hispanic-centered organizations on young adults. Through qualitative data collection, this study set out to (a) identify the impact of organizations on Hispanic heritage, (b) compare and contrast the varying experiences of participants within these organizations, and (c) reveal future directions for the continuation of this research. Four questions regarding the Hispanic organizations themselves and the lived experiences of their members were compiled into a free-response Google Form and emailed to a plethora of Hispanic-centered organizations in the Houston area. In addition to the questions themselves, participants could opt in for a followup interview with the purpose of shedding further light on their answers. After the data collection process, analysis of the form responses and interview transcripts revealed key themes within the expressed ideas, challenges, experiences, and beliefs. Altogether, this study reveals the myriad of outside influences affecting Hispanic-American adolescent development, which further shows how Hispanic organizations continue to affect Hispanic-Americans even into adulthood.

Mikayla Villafuerte Daughter of Zachary and Stephanie Villafuerte

Chorale President & Alto Section Leader • Diversity Club President & Chaplain • National Honor Society Member • Discipleship Group Leader & Member • Camp Mustang Counselor • HC Theatreworks •

TPSMEA All-Region Treble Choir 2022–2023, 2023–2024 •

TPSMEA All-State Choir 2024–2025 • HC Worship Band Leader • Model UN •

Founder of ‘KayKay’s Cinnamon Treats’ • Frontier Camp Junior Counselor •

College: Mays Business School at Texas A&M University

Major: Business

Research Abstract

Public art: Bringing cities to life

The social aspect of sustainability is often overlooked in discussions of making cities more “sustainable.” However, the quality of human life goes deeper than the efficiency and productivity of public services or systems. This research aims to explore how art influences people and the surrounding environment, particularly how it enhances urban spaces. Through qualitative research and a narrative inquiry approach, utilizing surveys and observation, this study examined how public art is perceived at the George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Texas. The survey utilized Likert-scale questions with a few short-answer responses to gauge how travelers experience artwork in the airport as well as the overall role art plays in urban development. This research found that many believe that art improves the overall atmosphere and experience in the airport, and on a broader scale, public art can have a positive impact on urban development and city beautification. Furthermore, people tend to disagree with the notion that art is a waste of resources, reinforcing art’s importance in building sustainable urban environments. Conclusively, art plays a vital role in the social sustainability of cities, exhibiting identity and culture, and most importantly, enhancing the quality of human life.

Josiah Wu

Son of David and Cindy Wu

• Four-year Varsity Lacrosse player

• Band President and Librarian

• Drumline

• Model UN

• D-Groups leader

• Asia Culture Club

• Camp Mustang Counselor

• Drums for HC Worship Band

• National Honor Society

College: Texas A&M University

Major: Business Honors

Beyond the Presentation

Each senior's final research presentation is more than just a capstone of their scholarly pursuits—it is a culminating expression of their ability to think critically, communicate persuasively, and respond thoughtfully to the rhetorical situation of their topic. Through podcasts, documentaries, websites, and other creative formats, our scholars have chosen the method that best matches their message—demonstrating not only academic skill but also a deep awareness of audience and purpose.

These final presentations serve as a powerful reminder that in DSP, research is not simply an academic requirement—it is a privilege rooted in purpose. As our students dig into complex questions and contribute to important conversations, they are participating in the very work that reflects the glory of God: seeking out what He has hidden in creation and offering their findings back to the world with clarity, conviction, and grace.

Scan the QR code to explore these incredible final works in full.

Leadership & Faculty for Scholars & Leaders

Mindy Dickerson

Executive Director of The Bush Center for Scholars and Leaders

Texas A&M University - B.S.

University of Houston - M.Ed.

Scott Cubbler

Passport to Lead Program Director; Leadership Studies Instructor

Trinity University - B.S.

Naval Postgraduate School - Homeland Defense

Jenna LaFlamme

Distinguished Scholars Program

Associate Director;

Distinguished Scholars Program Instructor; English Instructor

Eastern Connecticut State University - B.A.

Sacred Heart University - M.A.T.

Justice Harvey Brown

Adjunct Faculty

The University of Texas - B.S.

The University of Texas - J.D.

Melinda Lamoreaux

George & Barbara Bush Foundation Liaison

Kansas State University - B.B.M.

Lisa Hawkins

Innovation Programs Associate Director; Innovation Studies Instructor; Science Instructor

University of North Carolina-Greensboro - B.A.

Montana State University - M.S.

Michael Bredeweg

Science Instructor; Innovation Studies Instructor; Tennis Assistant Coach

Grand Valley State University - B.S.

Grand Valley State University - M.Ed.

Matthew Copeland

Math Instructor;

Distinguished Scholars Program Advisor

Louisiana State University - B.S.

Jeff Faircloth

Bible Instructor; Leadership Instructor; JV Baseball Head Coach; Football Assistant Coach; JV Football Head Coach

Sam Houston State University - B.S.

Sam Houston State University - M.A.

Kelly Oliver

English Instructor;

Distinguished Scholars Program Instructor

University of Kansas - B.A.

University of Houston - M.A.

Sam Houston State University - Ed.D.

Brooke McLane-Higginson

World Languages Instructor: Latin; Distinguished Scholars Program Instructor

The Evergreen State College - B.A.

Carnegie Mellon University - M.A.

University of Pennsylvania - P.B.A.C.C.

St. John’s College - M.A.

University of Pittsburgh - M.A.

University of Pittsburgh - Ph.D.

Lukas Rieke

Education Technology Specialist; Department Chair, Science; Science Instructor; Robotics Instructor

Northwest Nazarene University - B.S.

Columbia International University - M.Ed.

Jeff Rollins

Leadership Studies Instructor

Wheaton College - B.A.

National University - M.A.

Mike Skinner

Chaplain;

Distinguished Scholars Program Advisor

Houston Baptist University - B.A.

Houston Baptist University - M.A.

Tim Woods

World Languages Instructor: Latin;

Leadership Instructor

University of Missouri-Columbia - B.A.

Covenant Theological Seminary - M.A.

The Bush Center Advisory Council

Jean Becker

Former Chief of Staff, President George H. W. Bush

Casey Braswell

Former HC Faculty

HC Class of 2000

Justice Harvey Brown

Lanier Law Firm

HC Adjunct Instructor

Andrew Card

Former Chief of Staff,

President George W. Bush

Pete DeLongchamps

Senior Vice President at Group1 Automotive

HC Chairman of the Board

Tom Douthit

Executive Director, Toolbox Ministries

Former HC Board Member

Brian Eggleston

CFO for Downstream at Shell

Former HC Parent

Alf Halvorson

Lead Pastor of Memorial Drive

Presbyterian Church HC Board Member

Patrick Henshaw

Managing Director at Render HC Class of 2004

Jason Johnson

MetroNational CEO HC Class of 2005

Ken Jones

Vistage Chair, CEO Coach, Entrepreneur

Founder, The Wolff Entrepreneurship Center at University of Houston

Rimmo Jolly

Investor & Board Advisor

Founding Partner, PGV

Bill Peel

Executive Director of Learning Environments at Mays Business School at Texas A&M

Former HC Board Member

Michael Rodriguez

Baylor University Accounting Professor

Former Chief Business Officer of Magnolia

Chris Tutunjian

Associate at Baker Botts

HC Class of 2011

Jeff Voncannon

CEO Redman Management

Former HC Chairman of the Board

The Bush Center Advisory Council serves as a vital support structure for all programs and curricula within The George and Barbara Bush Center for Scholars and Leaders. Comprised of distinguished leaders and experts from various fields, the council provides valuable guidance, strategic advice, and insight into the development and enhancement of the center’s initiatives. Their collective experience helps ensure that the center’s programs are aligned with current leadership trends and best practices while also staying true to the core values of the Bush legacy. By offering both mentorship and practical recommendations, the Advisory Council plays a key role in shaping the direction and success of the center’s educational offerings.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:2

Scholars for Life

Taylor Allen 2020 The University of Texas, Plan II

Galilea Alvarez 2023 Baylor University

Ellie Ashby 2020 Harvard College

Karina Arnold 2015 The University of Oklahoma

Victoria Baltazar 2015 Texas A&M University

Madie Barrow 2023 Baylor University

Andrew Biar 2010 Carnegie Mellon University

Carina Biar 2019 Northwestern University

Jeremy Biar 2012 Texas A&M University

Nitin Bhardwaj 2009 Boston University

Jordan Blyden 2024 Rice University

Jarrett Bolander 2015 Texas Tech University

Colin Brogdon 2024 The University of Texas

Daniel Bunch 2015 Texas A&M University

Jake Byars 2016 Texas A&M University

Sarah Byars 2018 Texas A&M University

Hallie Byth 2010 Colorado School of Mines

Janice Byth 2012 Goucher College

Cassie Cater 2014 Texas A&M University

Emily Cezeaux 2024 Baylor University

Benjamin Chacko 2009 Texas A&M University

Priya Chacko 2011 The University of Texas, Plan ll

Jonathan Chen 2022 Harvard College

Carolina Cherechinsky 2023 New York University

Jayden Chin 2024 United States Naval Academy

Joshua Chin 2023 College of William & Mary

Kevin Chin 2014 The University of Texas

Margaret Colville 2017 Texas A&M University

Alexandra Constantinou 2012 Texas Christian University

Liz Constantinou 2013 Texas Christian University

Courtney Cossey 2018 Texas A&M University

Kirsten Cossey 2019 Texas A&M University

Allison Couch 2017 Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Kayla Daly 2019 The University of Texas

Alec DelSota 2016 Southern Methodist University

Emily Detiveaux 2015 Kansas State University

Jack Detiveaux 2013 Northeastern University

Evan Donohue 2024 Syracuse University

Zachary Dotson 2011 The University of Texas

Rebecca Driver 2011 Texas Christian University

Sydnor Duffy 2024 Johns Hopkins University

Cameron Duffy 2014 United States Naval Academy

Chakie Ebrahimi 2023 The University of Texas

Bryan Ericsson 2009 Macalester College

Adam Everist 2008 Auburn University

Meg Goode 2013 United States Military Academy

Sydney Greene 2019 Baylor University

Cristian Gualy 2021 Princeton University

John Haier 2010 Auburn University

Kaitlin Handel 2012 The University of Texas

LCDR Charlie Hasenbank 2008 United States Naval Academy, MIT

Drew Hendricks 2014 L’Université McGill

Kaitlyn Hirschbuehler 2012 Texas A&M University

Stephen Hirschbuehler 2014 Texas A&M University

Hannah Holmes 2011 Furman University

Emily Jack 2017 The University of Texas

Trevor Johnson 2011 New York University

R. Trey Jolly 2008 University of St. Thomas

Lauren Kearns 2019 Texas A&M University

Kylan Kinkade 2016 The University of Texas

Christopher Kirkland 2010 Texas A&M University

Sophia Knobbe 2023 Southern Methodist University

Ryan Konopka 2008 Pepperdine University

Nina Lakhani 2006 Barnard College

Isabella LeBlanc 2020 George Washington University

Tatum Lee 2017 The University of Texas

Chesli Nicole Lobue 2015 Texas A&M University

Emily Mallin 2021 Texas A&M University

Michael McArthur 2006 Duke University

Max McCarty 2024 Baylor University

Collin McGrath 2015 Trinity University

Lauren McGrath 2017 Tulane University

Ryan Mellen 2018 Colorado School of Mines

Rachel Mercer 2006 Northeastern University

Kaitlyn Moore 2020 Texas A&M University

Christopher Mosser 2012 Baylor University

Thomas Myers 2024 College of William & Mary

Autumn Nicholas 2019 United States Naval Academy

Garrett Nondorf 2010 Vanderbilt University

Sarah Ott 2011 The University of Texas

Abigail Palmer 2007 The University of Texas

Callie Parish 2013 The University of Texas

W. Taylor Payne 2010 Texas A&M University

Anna Pidala 2019 Baylor University

Cassie Porter 2015 University of Mississippi

Robert Pounds 2022 Trinity University

Margreta Ralston 2007 The University of Texas, Plan II

Jordan Rapp 2016 United States Naval Academy

John Rasplicka 2013 The University of Alabama

Ashleigh Rogers 2010 University of Virginia

Matthew Schwartz 2012 University of Virginia

Philip Schwartz 2016 Texas A&M University

Lauren Scott 2010 Texas A&M University

Jonathan Sun 2016 University of Washington

Erica Swain 2014 Wheaton College

Major Joseph Swain 2007 United States Military Academy

Noah Takahata 2024 The University of Texas

Kenner Taylor 2019 Texas A&M University

Elizabeth Tienda 2010 St. Mary’s University

Thomas Vassar 2017 Texas A&M University

Sofia Vazquez 2016 The University of Texas

Derby Watson 2023 Auburn University

Nicholas Weiss 2009 Boston College

Victoria Weiss 2007 Boston College

Allison White 2017 The University of Texas

Sierra Wilbur 2018 George Mason University

Leslie Wu 2010 Texas A&M University

Donna Xue 2024 Emory University

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