Houston Christian High School Scholars of 2026 Senior Profiles
HOUSTON CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL
SCHOLARS OF 2026 - SENIOR PROFILES
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 2026 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
Beyond the Ballot: The Role of Parasocial Relationships and Social Media Influencers on Adolescent Political Thought
This study investigates the impact of one-sided emotional bonds, or parasocial relationships (PSRs), on political attitudes. Recent literature on the topic indicates that PSRs with both traditional and non-traditional types of PSRs can significantly influence political thought. Research shows that forming bonds with strong political characters can foster higher political self-efficacy, interest, and engagement. Similarly, PSRs with influencers, celebrities, and politicians can increase political participation through increasing perceived credibility.
A quantitative survey was conducted among 68 high school students in the Greater Houston Area. The study found that PSR strength moderately correlates with all measured variables, with the most significant positive correlation occurring between PSR strength and the perceived simplification of politics (r = 0.5577). Further, results demonstrated that perceiving influencers as primary information sources strongly correlates with their perceived expertise (r = 0.6657). These findings underscore how diverse PSRs shape civic engagement and information consumption for the digital generation.
Graciana Cervantes
Daughter of Orlando and Rachel Cervantes
Varsity Soccer Captain •
Varsity Lacrosse Captain • Student Council • National Honors Society • Student Ambassador • Camp Mustang Counselor • Camp Invention Intern • Young Life • Girls’ Book Club VP of Communication • AP Scholar • National Merit Finalist •
College: University of Texas at Austin
Major: Biology
Research Abstract
Rasa and Musical Theatre: Bridging the Emotional Divide between Classical Aesthetics and Contemporary Performance
Storytelling is the element of performance that helps distinguish a good performance from an elite one. Rasaboxes is an Indian Sanskrit-based exercise used for exclusively acting performances. This powerful tool offers significant potential for elevating the quality of musical theatre performances and bringing to life the craft artists work so adamantly to perfect. The possible opportunity to add more research to an ever-changing and essential industry is what sparked this research. This qualitative research analyzes the effectiveness of Rasaboxes within musical theatre parameters. There was an intervention that required artists to do the Rasaboxes exercise and apply it to musical theatre pieces. The experiment data were analyzed and compared to see if there was a difference in musical theatre vocal pieces post-Rasaboxes intervention. This research will underscore the critical necessity for performers to cultivate emotional mastery and enhance their storytelling abilities.
Mia Chieng
Daughter of Jennifer Chan and Kenneth Chieng
• Invicta Arts & Training Center Pre-professional
Musical Theatre Program
• TMTA Music Theory State Exams
• National Honors Society Chaplain
• Grace & Truth Bible Study Club President
• Asian Culture Club Member
• Kingsland Baptist Church Preschool Ministry
Volunteer Group
• HC Student Ambassador
• Silver Spurs Chaplain
• HC Worship Band
College: Undecided
Major: Musical Theatre
Research Abstract
Psychoanalyzing Prehistory: Evolutionary Benefits to Neurodiversity in the Paleolithic era
Disorders such as ASD, ADHD, and Dyslexia are often seen negatively in modern society, but may have once been key to the development of Homo Sapiens. This thesis begins with a literature review that examines the characteristics of multiple disorders under the neurodiversity umbrella and their value. Consideration of current research of the benefits to neurodiversity demonstrate better memory, more creativity, risk management, and hyperfocus. Additionally, this literature review explores options for combating negative perceptions of neurodiversity and supporting neurodiverse individuals in modern society, including accommodations, education, and representation. The purpose of this study then shifted to research benefits to neurodiversity in the Paleolithic era. Through qualitative data collection, this study set out to (a) identify evidence for neurodiversity in prehistory, (b) examine if said neurodiversity prevented benefits, and (c) compare and contrast human behaviors with those of bonobos, humans’ closest relatives. This study utilizes interviews with experts in the field of human evolution, psychology, and primatology, which were then analyzed to find common key themes. The study reveals the possibilities of neurodiversity during the Paleolithic era and how it may have benefited ancient humans.
Lauren Dickerson Daughter of Mindy and Steve Dickerson
HC Environmental Awareness Club Co-President • Junior Classical League Historian • AP Scholar with Distinction • National Latin Exam Maxima Cum Laude • National Honors Society • Robotics • HC Neurodiversity Club • Orchestra •
The Role of the Jungian Collective Unconscious in Plant Identification in the Voynich Manuscript
This study focuses on the botanical illustrations featured in the Voynich Manuscript and their possible connections to Carl Jung’s collective unconscious. The literature review portion of the study gathered information largely on different art forms and the role that the collective unconscious plays within the arts. Additionally, the literature review covers the connection between other cultural factors and art, such as religion, and presents the necessary background information concerning the Voynich Manuscript. The study’s main research objective was to examine which artistic elements of the botanical drawings were most impactful in identifying the plants. The element of botanicals, such as the shape of the flowers, the structure of the plant, or the colour of the leaves, that were referenced the most would be examined as to whether they align within the collective unconscious. In order to examine the botanicals, a three part investigation was conducted. The first part of the investigation involved identifying the first 60 pages of the manuscript and noting which elements were the most influential. Then, the elements were compared to the artistic design of a printed manuscript contemporary to the Voynich manuscript. Lastly, to more fully examine the role of the collective unconscious, a short questionnaire was sent out where participants would identify and list their own noted artistic factors for 20 of the botanicals. After all research was compiled, the analysis of the impact of the collective unconscious was explored.
Olivia Donohue
Daughter of Catie and Casey Donohue
• Orchestra Vice President
• National Honors Society
• Robotics
• HC Environmental Awareness Club Co-President
• AP Scholar with Honor
• HC Tennis Manager
• Grace and Truth Club
College: Trinity University
Major: Environmental and Conservation Science
Research Abstract
An Examination of the Causes Behind Fluctuations in Standardized Test Scores
This study examines the relationships between key socioeconomic and institutional factors and standardized test performance across Texas public schools. Using a quantitative bivariate correlational design, data from over 10,000 schools were analyzed for the 2024 academic year. Four independent variables were considered: socioeconomic status, government investment in schools, teacher experience, and chronic absenteeism, measured using publicly available data from the U.S. Census, the Texas Education Agency, and national education datasets. Each factor was analyzed in relation to four standardized outcomes: the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR), the SAT, the ACT, and Advanced Placement (AP) performance. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the strength and direction of associations, with statistical significance evaluated at a 95% confidence. Socioeconomic status demonstrated the strongest positive relationship with test performance across all assessments, while chronic absenteeism showed a generally negative association. Teacher experience exhibited weaker positive relationships, and government investment displayed inconsistent correlations across tests. These findings highlight the relative importance of socioeconomic and attendance-related factors in understanding variation in student performance across Texas schools.
Tully Florey
Son of Julia and Tull Florey
Robotics Team Lead • HC Varsity Soccer •
HC Softball Manager • AP Scholar with Distinction • Georgetown Sports Management Program • University of Chicago Economics Program • Model United Nations • Junior Classical League President • Young Men’s Service League President • Student Council Treasurer •
Co-Founder of Future Lawyers of America Club • TCU Neely Analytics Academy • HC Chorale •
College: Rice University
Major: Double Major: Business, Sports Management
Research Abstract
Stress & Memory: An examination of adolescent behavior
This study explores the relationship between perceived stress levels and memory retrieval in a teenage audience, with a focus on students ages thirteen to eighteen. Although previous research has largely focused on this relationship as seen in young adults around the college age or even older populations, this study aims to fill the research gap by looking at a younger audience. Specifically, it looks into how two different types of stress, distress and eustress, impact memory in these teenagers. Using a quantitative method, a five-part survey was administered to 176 students from Houston Christian High School, with each part gauging a different type of information. General demographic information was collected in the first section, with more specific information regarding general aspects of student life, including class rigor and extracurricular commitment, being assessed in part two. The remaining three parts included questions to gather information on distress, eustress, and memory retrieval, using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Eustress Questionnaire, and the Everyday Memory Questionnaire (EMQ), respectively. A regression analysis of the survey showed little to no correlation between distress and memory, nor eustress and memory. Both analyses had very low R and R2 values; the insignificance of these values persisted even when the data were limited by the factors measured in parts one and two of the survey. Because of this lack of statistical significance, the data suggest that the relationship between stress and memory in teenagers differs greatly from the way the relationship works in adults. Because of the limitations of the study, largely revolving around its nature as a survey that can only collect perceived information, it is difficult to determine where exactly these differences can be found, meaning that future research is required to fully understand how stress and memory interact in this population.
Bekah Gerard
Daughter of Bryan and Shelly Gerard
• Varsity Cross Country Captain
• Varsity Track Captain
• Camp Mustang Counselor
• Young Life Leader
• Chevron Houston Marathon Finisher
• National Honor Society President
• Texas Girls State Citizen
• AP Scholar with Honor
• National Merit Commended Scholar
• MDPC Preschool Leader
• Camp Invention Intern
• Girls Book Club Officer
College: University of Texas at Austin
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Research
Abstract
Gene-ius CRISPR-mediated immunotherapy
Throughout modern medicine, there has been a constant fight between the rapid division of cells, cancer, and advancements to treat such diseases. Unfortunately, most of these advancements can be either harmful, too new, or ineffective altogether. One of the newest advancements in tackling cancer involves using CRISPR-Cas9, or Clustered Regulatory Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats with an associated Cas9 protein, to genetically modify the immune system to allow it to fight cancer. Throughout the existing literature, many studies take a variety of different approaches, ranging from targeting the cancer cells to the immune system cells, with the subsections of that research focusing on a wide variety of different genes. Thus, in order to address the incoherency of the field, this quantitative research paper seeks to identify trends within the existing research to help guide future research, fixing the “newness” of CRISPR-mediated immunotherapy so it may be implemented into clinical environments swiftly.
Owen Hawthorne
Son of Lisa and Rick Hawthorne
Vice President of StangTech Robotics • President of StangTech Robotics • Student Ambassador • American Legion Boys State • Mustang Camp Counselor (11th grade) • HC Theatreworks (10th grade) • Praise Club •
College: Undecided between Purdue, Texas A&M, and Boston University
Major: Biomedical Engineering/Bioengineering
Research Abstract
Enhancing the Resilience of the Galleria Area: A CWET-Based Longitudinal Analysis of Winter Storm Uri, Hurricane Harvey, Tropical Storm Imelda, the Tax Day Floods, and the Memorial Day Flood.
Over the course of the last decade, Houston has experienced a number of natural disasters that have had a wide range of impacts on the area and its population. Concerns about how these disasters have been managed and prepared for have been under extreme scrutiny from the public, calling into question whether the Galleria area has been effectively preparing for and adapting to each disaster, or if it is more a partial or ineffective attempt to address the needs. For example, with the recent Winter Storm Uri, ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) did not do an adequate job in preparations to ensure continued power for the area. Therefore, this quantitative study attempts to standardize data across these major disasters affecting the Galleria area using a CWET model, taking into account the most impacted areas within defined zip codes. Overall, this study seeks to find whether the Galleria area is becoming more or less resilient.
• Houston Christian Theatreworks (Crew Chief and Fly Captain in an award-winning program, 9–12)
• Model United Nations (Member at local and state conferences, 10–12)
• Young Men’s Service League (Vice President, Sargent in Arms, 11-12)
• National Honor Society (10-12)
• Duke Engineering Camp, Participant (10)
• TCU Neeley Business School Summer Program, Participant (11)
• Student Ambassador (9-12)
College: North Carolina State University
Major: Chemical Engineering
Research Abstract
International adoption: Examining the United States adoption system, the Hague Convention, UNICEF, and adoption practices in Asia
This research examines the evolution of international adoption and explores the policies within the system. The study focuses on the relationship among the United States adoption system, the Hague Convention, and UNICEF amid a significant decline in international adoption. The research found a decline since peaking in 2004, with adoptions falling from approximately 24,000 to as few as 900-9,000 annually. This decline is primarily attributed to the Hague Convention’s strict ethical regulations and UNICEF’s efforts to keep children within their birth cultures. Consequently, the typical adoptee profile has shifted from healthy infants to older children over age five or those with complex special needs, leading agencies to pivot toward "trauma disruption" and family restoration as adoption becomes a final resort.
Ellen Moore Daughter of Karen and Cody Moore
Varsity volleyball •
National Honor Society Officer • National Charity League Officer • Middle School Youth Group Leader • Certified Lifeguard • Student Ambassador • Camp Mustang Counselor • Sugarcreek Baptist VBS Volunteer • Girls Book Club President • College: Texas A&M University Major: Economics
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 Director; Distinguished Scholars Program Instructor; English Instructor
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.
Darrin Hanson
Social Sciences Instructor; Distinguished Scholars Program Instructor
Grove City College - B.A.
University of Nebraska - M.A.
The University of Texas - Ph.D.
Kelly Oliver
English Instructor;
Distinguished Scholars Program Instructor
University of Kansas - B.A.
University of Houston - M.A.
Sam Houston State University - Ed.D.
Jeff Rollins
Leadership Studies Instructor
Wheaton College - B.A.
National University - M.A.
Mike Skinner
Chaplain; Distinguished Scholars Program Resource
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
Melinda Lamoreaux
George & Barbara Bush Foundation Docent Parent of HC Alum
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
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.
Taylor Allen
Scholars for Life
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
Bauer Burttschell 2025 The University of Texas at San Antonio
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
Mckayla Childs 2025 Rice 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
Sophia Kuo 2025 Duke University
Nina Lakhani 2006 Barnard College
Isabella LeBlanc 2020 George Washington University
Tatum Lee 2017 The University of Texas
Lillian Lemasters 2025 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
Blaire McLarry 2025 Texas A&M University
Collin McGrath 2015 Trinity University
Lauren McGrath 2017 Tulane University
Sydney McMeans 2025 Trinity 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
Kiersten Reed 2025 University of Arkansas
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
Hailey Stagner 2025 Texas A&M University
Kate Stahl 2025 The University of Oklahoma
Jonathan Sun 2016 University of Washington
Nathaniel Sun 2025 Texas A&M University
Erica Swain 2014 Wheaton College
Major Joseph Swain 2007 United States Military Academy
