In the heart of Rural Texas
From a Dream in Rural Texas to a Movement Transforming Thousands of Lives Through Play, Learning, and Hope
In the heart of rural Texas, where opportunities for children’s enrichment can often feel limited, I chose to dream bigger than my circumstances. I turned a simple belief—that every child deserves a place to learn, imagine, and feel valued—into a movement that continues to impact thousands of families across Johnson County and beyond.
What began in 2014 as a small children’s museum has grown into a 22,000-square-foot space filled with laughter, discovery, creativity, and hope. But behind the colorful exhibits, smiling children, and beloved tortoise mascots is a story of perseverance that few people truly see.
My family and I built the museum not from wealth or corporate backing, but from determination, faith, and countless sacrifices. In a world where many nonprofits struggle to survive, Texas Children’s Museum has continued forward through economic uncertainty, rising costs, and the challenges rural communities face every day. The museum operates entirely through volunteers—no paid staff, no large government funding—just people who believe in making a difference.
My mission has always been deeply personal: creating a place where children can learn through play, where families feel welcomed regardless of income, and where every child walks through the doors knowing they matter.
That mission is reflected in programs like Museums for All, where families using SNAP or WIC can visit at reduced admission prices, ensuring that financial hardship never becomes a barrier to childhood learning experiences. For many families in rural Texas, the museum is more than a place to play—it is a safe space, a memory-maker, and sometimes one of the few affordable educational experiences available close to home.
My vision reaches far beyond exhibits and activities. I believe children need spaces filled with imagination, kindness, creativity, and encouragement. From STEAM activities and interactive learning rooms to the museum’s unique Bible Story Hallway, every detail reflects my desire to inspire wonder while planting seeds of hope.
My leadership style is not loud or self-promoting. Instead, it is rooted in service. Friends and supporters describe me as someone who keeps showing up—even when things are difficult, even when the future feels uncertain. Whether I am organizing field trips for local schools, preparing summer programs, writing grant proposals late into the night, or personally welcoming families through the museum doors, I strive to lead with heart. I am grateful for a board that comes alongside us, prays with us, and supports not only our mission but also the Lord’s leading.
And perhaps that is what makes my story resonate so deeply.
In a time when many people are searching for purpose, I remind myself that influence is not measured only by titles, money, or fame. True influence is found in the lives we touch, the doors we open for others, and the hope we create in places where hope is needed most.
Today, Texas Children’s Museum serves tens of thousands of children and families, but I still dream bigger. My current goal is securing a permanent home for the museum—a place future generations can continue to enjoy for years to come. It is a dream fueled not by personal ambition, but by love for my community in Johnson County, Texas, and the belief that rural children deserve the same opportunities as anyone else.
My journey has not been easy. There have been moments of exhaustion, uncertainty, and financial strain. But through every obstacle, I have continued moving forward with resilience and faith in Jesus Christ as my guide.
For the children who run through the museum doors with excitement in their eyes, for the parents grateful for a safe and welcoming place, and for the community that continues to rally around this mission, I believe I am more than a founder.
My family and I are proof that one person with compassion, courage, and an unwavering heart can change an entire community.
