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HA Raider Ambassadors

Houston Academy’s Raider Ambassadors are a distinguished team of student leaders who proudly serve as the face of our school. Representing HA with professionalism and enthusiasm, these students act as liaisons between the school and prospective families, alumni, business partners, and the greater community.

Raider Ambassadors play a vital role in admissions events, college outreach, and campus-wide initiatives, helping to foster connections and showcase the values and excellence of Houston Academy. They participate in special events in an official capacity, assisting with admissions efforts, welcoming guests, and promoting a positive image of HA throughout Dothan and beyond.

For more information about Houston Academy or the Raider Ambassadors program, please contact Nicole Lisenby, Director of Admissions, at lisenbyn@houstonacademy.com.

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  • My name is Bennett Amason, and I am a senior at Houston Academy. I have been a Raider Ambassador since 10th grade, and I have attended Houston academy since 7th grade. My sister Anna Blake became a Raider in 7th grade as well. Transferring from public school to Houston Academy seemed like a hard change at the time, but it was so amazing, especially since I had friends to share that experience. Houston Academy has been a great school for me, providing me with the ability to be challenged intellectually as well as be involved in such a welcoming community. I play on the varsity soccer team, and I am a varsity cheerleader. I am involved in the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the National Peanut Festival Junior Fair board, and was a member of The Dothan Youth Leadership class of 33. I have also been selected to serve on the Discipline Committee for a second year. Outside of school I attend the youth at First Baptist Church. I work in the children's ministry at Covenant Methodist as well as lifeguard at the Dothan Country Club during the summer. Houston Academy has helped me learn to balance all my activities with academics so that I am prepared for the real world. I am so happy to be a part of the Raider community to help serve and welcome new members to the Houston Academy family.

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  • My name is Yi Lin Bai, and I am a senior at Houston Academy. I have attended HAsince 6th grade, and I also have a sister in 9 th grade. My favorite part about HA is how encouraging the teachers and students are. I find myself being challenged to take harder classes and to find a sense of community within the opportunities that have been provided for me. At HA, I am a majorette in the Mighty Marching Raider Band. Additionally, I am also part of the Harbor Service Club, the Love in Action Service Club, and the National Honor Society. Outside of school, I volunteer at Southeast Health in the summer. After high school, I plan to major in biomedical sciences before pursuing pharmacy school. Without doubt, I know Houston Academy will prepare me for college. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Lilly Barfield, and I am a freshman at Houston Academy. I have attended Houston Academy since fifth grade. I love being a part of the Houston Academy family because everyone is so welcoming. When I transferred from a public school to HA, I was nervous and didn’t know what to expect. As soon as I got to HA, I was immediately embraced by my peers and teachers. HA has always prepared me for all the academic and even extracurricular challenges. I have had the opportunity to play volleyball since the seventh grade as well as basketball since the eighth grade. I am also a member of the National Junior Honor Society and Raider Ambassadors. Outside of school I attend First Baptist Church and enjoy volunteering at VBS every summer. I am so thankful for the way Houston Academy has provided me with a great experience, and I cannot wait share that experience with others. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Carmine Biasella, and I am a sophomore at Houston Academy. I have attended HA since 7th grade after moving from California, and before that Illinois. I’ve loved the quality of education here, and my teachers have been some of the best teachers I have ever had. I play soccer and run cross-country. I am also the CEO of Marketing for the Robotics team, Squad leader in the HA Marching Band, and part of the Love In Action service club. HA has given me a home, and I’m honored to be able to represent HA as an Ambassador.

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  • My name is Finn Bishop, and I am a freshman at Houston Academy. The transition to HA in fourth grade was made easy by the teachers and students. They were very welcoming, and it was easy for me to make friends because the other kids invited me to play with them on the first day of school. One of the things I love most about HA is how easy it is to find your group of friends and feel like you belong. Throughout my years at Houston Academy, I have played on the JV Tennis team in 7th grade, the Varsity Tennis Team in 8th grade, I am a National Junior Honor Society Executive Officer, I was on the middle school math team, and I have been selected "Raider of the Quarter." Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, hunting, and playing sports. I love how Houston Academy has many events and activities all year round. Such as pep rallies, house games, and May Fair. While attending Houston Academy, I have learned to not procrastinate on work and to develop good work habits. I am excited for my freshman year, because I know Houston Academy is going to prepare me well for the future.

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  • My name is Whitney Cook. I am a senior at Houston Academy. This is my second year as a Raider Ambassador. I have attended Houston Academy since 3P alongside my 3 siblings who have all graduated from HA. I love Houston Academy because of its great environment and the teachers who have helped me grow not only as a student but to who I am today. I have played soccer since 7th grade and cheered for Houston Academy from 7th to 10th grade. I am involved in the Student Government Association, The Harbor club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Outside of school, I attend First United Methodist Church and am a part of their youth group. Every summer I work with Vacation Bible School and spread the word of God’s love to lots of kids. In the future I hope to attend Auburn University and major in Early Childhood Education. I am very proud to say that Houston Academy has thoroughly prepared me for the future. I cherish being a Raider Ambassador, because I get to show families what all HA has to offer and ensure new students and parents that Houston Academy is a great place to be.

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  • My name is Mahya Estrella and I am currently a sophomore at Houston Academy! I have attended HA since the 1st grade, and I am so grateful for this opportunity. Houston Academy has provided me with many choices of extracurriculars and an amazing assortment of people; both students and faculty. I am a member of Cross Country, Track, and currently serve as a squad leader in our Marching Band. I am also a member of many clubs, some including Love in Action and SGA. All these experiences have tremendously shaped me as a person and have allowed me to make the most of my high school experience. I am excited to see where this school will continue to take me and hope that this experience can extend to many more. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Brianna Hart, and I am a junior at Houston Academy. I have been a student at HA since 3P, and my parents are both teachers at Houston Academy. One of my favorite things about this school is the extensive opportunities it provides. Many sports and clubs are offered at HA, so there are many ways to get involved. I am a part of the Varsity Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Outdoor Track teams, as well as a member of the Raider Ambassadors. Additionally, I will serve as a member of the Honor Council this year. I enjoy being a Raider Ambassador because it allows me to branch out and talk to new people, and it is a great opportunity to expand my leadership skills. I also love how kind and welcoming the student body is and how the teachers are always willing to help us when we don’t understand something. These past 13 years I’ve spent at Houston Academy have been incredible. I know HA will provide me with everything I need to succeed in my future at college, and I couldn’t be more grateful for every opportunity I have received through Houston Academy

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  • My name is Megan Hartman, and I am a senior at Houston Academy. I love Houston Academy because it has a small campus, so many clubs, and provides me with the best opportunities to succeed. I have an older brother who just graduated from Northside Methodist Academy. My mom works at the Friends of the Library, and my father is a retired military veteran who works at the Safety Center at Fort Rucker. During my years at Houston Academy, I have been a part of the volleyball and soccer teams, participated in musicals, HARmonix, and have been a part of the Model United Nation teams. I have also participated in NJHS, NHS, The Ark, Harbor and Enable Club, and other various community service projects. I work with my church, babysit, and tutor during the school year. I would love to attend college with a music major and work toward a musical career. I hope one day to perform and sing all over the world. I am excited to be a Raider Ambassador this year because of the experiences and life lessons it will teach me. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Caroline Heersink, and I am a sophomore at Houston Academy. I have been an HA Raider since 2020, and this past year, I was able to do an exchange year in the Netherlands. I have two siblings who also attend and love HA, and a two-year-old brother who hopes to attend when he’s old enough. I participate in many clubs and activities that HA facilitates, including JV Soccer Team, Cross Country Team, Outdoor Track Team, and National Junior Honor Society. I also participate in activities outside of HA, including Model European Parliament, Model United Nations, PYC club sailing, and the Youth Party for Groen Link. HA has helped teach me the value of hard work and time management. I enjoy the connections that are formed between peers and teachers at HA, who truly invest and deeply care about students. Houston Academy has helped me grow as a person in many ways. I appreciate the unique experiences, challenging classes, and the freedom we are given to grow at Houston Academy.

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  • My name is Jansen Kirkland, and I am a senior at Houston Academy. I joined Houston Academy in the 6th grade and made the transition to this school to best prepare myself for the future. Everyone was so welcoming, and the environment quickly became natural to me. I also have two brothers, Davis, who graduated from HA, and Bennett, a 7th grader who attends HA. I have taken advantage of many opportunities for involvement. These include soccer, Student Government Association, The Ark club, The Harbor, Enable, and the National Honor Society. Quality education is a top priority of mine, and Houston Academy is helping to ensure my future success. My career path interest is in the medical field, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of such an amazing school. I love this community and enjoy sharing my favorite things about it with others. Houston Academy equips me with the tools to succeed in life and help others. Serving as a Raider Ambassador allows me to grow and give back to my school. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Maggie Kate Maddox. I am a junior at Houston Academy, and I have attended HA since the sixth grade. One of my favorite qualities about HA is how welcoming it is, and how the environment truly feels like a family. I am a member of the Varsity Soccer and Bowling teams. I am also involved in the National Honors Society, Student Government Association, Raider Ambassadors, The Harbor, The Ark Club, and I am one of the Tensaw Bears House captains. Outside of school, I enjoy being with my friends and family, as well as playing soccer with the Dothan Shockers. I have also helped with Turkeys From Heaven during Christmas time. Houston Academy is a great school with many so many outstanding qualities. I look forward to having a great year. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Lib McRae and I am a junior at Houston Academy. I started here in 3P, so I have been a Raider my entire life. I have an older brother, Wills, Class of 2025, and a younger sister, Amelia, who is in 8th grade here at Houston Academy. My dad also graduated from Houston Academy. Being at HA gives you a chance to be involved in lots of sports, and I have tried many of them. I am on the Varsity cheer and soccer teams, and I’ve also played volleyball and basketball. There are many leadership opportunities as well. I am involved in the National Honors Society, Student Government Association, Raider Ambassadors, House Captain of the Chickasaw Coyotes, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, The Ark Club. Outside of school I enjoy hanging out with family and friends, serving at my church, attending youth group, and traveling. I love Houston Academy, because it challenges me and prepares me for a successful future. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Jaxon Morales, and I am a freshman at HA. I have been attending Houston Academy since I was 3 years old. My older siblings, Emma and Ethan, started at HA in the 6th grade, and they are now HA Alum. One of my favorite things about this school is how I have the opportunity to get to know everyone in my grade personally. With the small class sizes, our school feels like one big family. This also means the teachers are always willing to help. In addition, HA has many different clubs and organizations to be a part of. There is something for everyone to be a part of. In school I’m part of the National Junior Honor Society, varsity soccer, and varsity basketball. Outside of school I play multiple travel sports and volunteer in the community. In the future I want to pursue an education in sports medicine, and I know that HA has prepared me very well for my future.

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  • My name is Jacque Morris, and I am a freshman at Houston Academy. I have attended Houston Academy since 3P, and my experience has been wonderful. My older brother and sister are HA graduates. Houston Academy is an incredible school because of the magnificent education and the countless opportunities. When you join Houston Academy, you become a part of a family. It is a very positive environment and everyone uplifts each other. Teachers and faculty work their hardest to make Houston Academy a great place for everyone. During my time at HA, I have been involved in many extracurricular activities such as Raider Ambassador, holding the placement as our SGA treasurer, member of National Junior Honors Society, the cheer team, and the soccer team. I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends, serving my church, traveling, and participating in church activities. Houston Academy is a great school that allows me to be the best version of myself. I am so thankful to be a HA Raider!

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  • My name is Paxton Parrish. I am a junior and I have been at Houston Academy since seventh grade. There are so many ways to get involved like clubs, sports, and even our amazing performing arts program. I have been a part of the Varsity Cross Country team as well as Outdoor and Indoor track since seventh grade. I am also a member of the National Honor Society. Some other things I enjoy are participating in the upper school theatre production each year, as well as showcases with our choir, Harmonix group, and drama classes. Although I have not been here long, I’ve met some amazing people, tried new things, and learned a lot more than I could have imagined. I know that I am being provided with the absolute best resources to be prepared for college of which my goal is to go to Samford University in the future. I am so beyond grateful for Houston Academy for these past five years

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  • My name is Wilson Parrish, and I am a junior at Houston Academy. I have attended Houston Academy since seventh grade, and I have three sisters and a brother who also attend Houston Academy. One of the things that I love about Houston Academy is the welcoming environment. In seventh grade, I was nervous about transferring to a new school. I had no idea what it would be like. However, as soon as I came to HA, I felt extremely welcomed by my teachers and peers. The curriculum challenges me in the best ways possible, and I am surrounded by kind and supportive peers. I am involved with several clubs and athletics at Houston Academy. I have played many sports during my time as a Raider. I have played baseball, basketball, soccer, and football during my years at Houston Academy. I have also participated in many clubs such as the Student Government Association, National Junior Honor Society, Scholars Bowl, Interact, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the Middle School Math Team. I participate in Turkeys from Heaven during Christmas time with my family and Houston Academy. I am a member of Saint Columba Catholic Church, where I am an altar server. During the summer I work as a lifeguard at Azalea Swim and Tennis Club and the Dothan Country Club. Houston Academy prepares me for a successful future, and I could not be happier. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Avani Patel, and I’m a junior at Houston Academy! This is my second year serving as a Raider Ambassador, a role I’ve come to value deeply since transferring to HA as a freshman. Although the transition was unfamiliar at first, I was quickly welcomed by kind faces and found my place in the school community. I’ve since become involved in a wide range of activities, including the varsity swim team since ninth grade, cross country since sophomore year, and Student Government Association, Harbor Service Club, and the Yearbook staff. These extracurriculars have helped me grow both personally and professionally by building character and strengthening valuable life skills. Over the past year, I’ve also expanded my experience through volunteering at Flowers Hospital and Southeast Health, interning at a law office, serving as a camp counselor, and lifeguarding over the summer. After graduating from Houston Academy, I hope to major in business and pursue a law degree to become an attorney. I’m grateful for the many ways HA has helped me grow, and I’m excited to see what’s next!

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  • My name is Emmett Payne. This year, I am a senior at Houston Academy, which I have attended for 5 years. I also have a younger brother in 8th grade at HA. Houston Academy has given me many opportunities to succeed in academics and extracurricular activities. I compete on the cross country, wrestling, and soccer teams. Additionally, I am the National Honor Society Treasurer and a member of the Scholar’s Bowl and Math teams. Also, I am involved in the Student Government Organization, and I previously served as its secretary. Outside of school, I am active in my church’s youth group. I firmly believe that Houston Academy is preparing me well for whatever I choose to pursue in the future, and I am proud to be a Raider Ambassador.

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  • My name is Aidan Phillips. I am a sophomore, and I have been enrolled at HA since kindergarten. My sister Hayley is currently in the 8th grade. HA has always been an amazing experience for me. No matter how hard my classes are or how much homework I have, I always enjoy every moment of being a part of HA. There is nothing like walking around this beautiful campus. I am also part of both the varsity football and soccer teams. Soccer has been my sport of choice since I was three years old. I have played for a variety of different teams, but I have spent most of my time at the Dothan Shockers. Inside of school, I am involved with the National Honor Society, Raider Ambassador, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I am always excited to help new faces and ones known to our beautiful HA community.

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  • My name is Libby Price, and I am a freshman here at Houston Academy! I have been a student here since the 3rd grade, and I have loved every minute. HA truly is one big family. Houston Academy has taught me so many things such as the importance of being prepared and as well as the importance of supporting others. I have an older brother Whit who is a junior, a younger sister Emma who is a 3rd grader, and a younger brother Cooper who is in 3P. In my free time I enjoy dancing at the Dothan School of Dance on the Performance Team, babysitting my siblings and friends, and taking part in many community affiliations. I am very excited for the upcoming year as a Raider Ambassador and I’m looking forward to all the opportunities Houston Academy provides us each year! Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Abbie Grace Renshaw. I am a junior and I’ve been at Houston Academy since the seventh grade. My favorite part about HA is the amazing environment and how the teachers really care about us. I have two older siblings that started in the eighth grade, Lucius Renshaw who graduated in 2023, and Maggie Renshaw who is currently a senior. I am a member of FCA, SGA, NHS, and I have played on the Junior Varsityand Varsity Girls’ Soccer team since seventh grade. I’ve played soccer for 12 years, including micro soccer, recreational soccer, and many years of club soccer. I’m an active member of my youth group at Covenant. I enjoy volunteering in the nursery, helping with our kids’ ministry and participating in events within our youth group. As of right now, I intend to pursue accounting at Auburn University. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Lauren Sanders, and I am a junior at Houston Academy. This is my sixth year being a Raider and I have loved every minute. The teachers and students were so welcoming that I felt I had been there forever. My mom, Amiee Sanders, teaches in the upper school math department at Houston Academy. I am on the Varsity volleyball team as well as the manager for the indoor and outdoor track and field teams. Aside from sports, I am the secretary for our Love in Action club, a part of Raider Ambassadors, National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, 334 Prevention Project Youth Council, Student Government Association, Dothan Adolescent Community Youth Advisory Council, and I volunteer at Flowers Hospital. My long term goal is to go into pediatric medicine, and I feel that Houston Academy is the perfect place to accomplish my dreams. I will always be grateful to be a part of the Houston Academy family. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Olivia Shows, and I am a sophomore at Houston Academy. This will be my eighth year as a Raider, and I have loved every minute of it. I came to Houston Academy in the third grade and remember being so nervous to begin. All the girls in my grade welcomed me and helped me to adjust, and even today, I am still great friends with all of them. My favorite part of Houston Academy is the arts. I am a member of the Mighty Marching Raider band, twirling as a majorette for the marching band and playing the Tenor Saxophone in the concert band. I am passionate about painting and drawing, and I hope to go to college one day to study fine and studio arts. I have starred in productions by the theatre department, which was so much fun. The environment that all the teachers and students create in the arts department is so accepting and welcoming. Overall, the arts are my favorite part of Houston Academy. As a Raider Ambassador, I hope to serve and help our community. I love sharing my love for this school, and hope others can see what I do. Houston Academy is such a welcoming place and a great school to go to, and every day I am grateful to be here. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Abby Skinner, and I am a sophomore at Houston Academy. This will be my fifth year as a Raider, and I can confidently say I have loved every minute of my time spent at the school. The teachers challenge me every day, and I am surrounded by amazing peers who support me. Not only does our small class size enable me to know all my classmates personally, but HA does an amazing job creating family-like connections between all different grades through various team building activities. I am a member of several clubs and activities provided by the school such as the Swim team, Student Government Association, Love In Action Service Club, and the National Junior Honor Society. I also serve as a Squad Leader in the Marching Band and the tenth grade representative on the Upper School Discipline Committee. Houston Academy has helped me grow in tremendous ways, and I hope to spread my love of our school with many new families. I am so proud to be a part of the HA family. Go Raiders!

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  • Hi! I’m Anna Lee Steltenpohl, and I’m currently a sophomore at Houston Academy. I’ve been part of the HA family since 7th grade, and from the very beginning, I’ve been greeted with open arms and big smiles. I have two younger siblings who are also here—my brother Mac is in 8th grade, and my sister Claire is in 5th. I stay involved both on and off campus. At HA, I’m a member of the National Junior Honor Society, Blue Zone, SGA, The Harbor, and FCA. Outside of school, I serve on the 334 Prevention Project Youth Council, volunteer with the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce, and help with Turkeys from Heaven during the holidays. I’m also an active member of Saint Columba Catholic Church, where I serve as an altar server. Houston Academy has given me so many meaningful opportunities to grow, learn, and lead, and those are experiences I’ll always be grateful for. I’m so excited to represent HA as a Raider Ambassador and to help others feel just as welcomed and encouraged as I have. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Bethany Teague, and I am a senior at Houston Academy. I transferred to Houston Academy 2nd semester of my 11th grade year from Abbeville Christian Academy. Prior to enrolling at HA, I attended Lee-Scott Academy in Auburn, AL. Changing schools is something that I have had much experience with as my father’s job with the US Secret Service has moved our family 6 times in 5 states. I was born in Manassas, Virginia and have attended 9 schools since PreK. Though change can be challenging, it has turned out to be very beneficial for me in learning how to navigate change for growth. . Houston Academy has really embraced me with open arms. The teachers and staff are very supportive and accommodating. Before I enrolled at Houston Academy I was heavily involved in the Key Club and I was also the Media Director and Treasurer of my junior class in SGA. I was involved in JV and Varsity Softball at Lee Scott Academy. Currently I am a Teen-Age Volunteer at Southeast Health Medical Center and a prominent member of FCA. Outside of school I attend Dothan First Assembly of God and am involved in the Youth Fine Arts-Human Video Productions. Houston Academy has helped me learn balance and stability with all my activities and academics, so that I am prepared for the world after high school. I am so happy I can be a part of this great school and to help welcome new students to the Houston Academy Community.

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  • My name is Kaylee Beth Walker, and I am a senior at Houston Academy. I started at HAin the second grade, when my family moved from Birmingham to Dothan. My younger brother, Riley (9th), started at HA in 4P, and my younger get sister, Katherine (6th), started when she turned 3. One of my favorite things about Houston Academy is the fact that we are a tight-knit family. With the small class size, I was able to really get to know my classmates as well as the other students in other grades. Also, the teachersare always available to help and genuinely care about their students. Another great thing about Houston Academy is that there are so many different opportunities to be involved in. I have been a part of the National Honor Society, Latin club, Enable, Raider Ambassador, and the Yearbook staff. Outside of school, I am a competitive level 8 gymnast and a summer camp coach at United Gymstars. I am also a part of DAC YAC at Dothan Pediatrics. I plan to pursue a degree in elementary education, and I know my time at Houston Academy will prepare me well for college, as well as my future. Go Raiders!

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  • My name is Mary Parker Williams, and I am a junior at Houston Academy. I have attended HA since 3P along with my brothers, Brody (Class of 2024) and Harris (8th grade). My younger sister, Wynn, is attending preschool at Houston Academy this year as well! I enjoy Houston Academy because it is truly a caring environment where positivity and encouragement are demonstrated repeatedly. My teachers are always willing to help and act in a student’s best interests. Here at Houston Academy, I have had the opportunity to play Varsity tennis as well as contribute to the Student Government Association, National Junior Honors Society, The Harbor, Enable, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Additionally, I am a part of the Dothan Adolescent Community Youth Advisory Council, where I work to benefit my community and make it a safer place. I participate in the Youth Group and Small Group at First Presbyterian Church of Dothan every week. I also enjoy helping with mission work for my church. Alot of my time is spent participating in these extracurriculars, and I have benefitted greatly through those experiences. When you become involved in your community, you learn responsibility and independence. It also serves as an opportunity to manage and balance your time so you can spend it with friends and family, too. It is my hope to go to medical school once I graduate from Houston Academy and become a medical practitioner. This is only possible because of the excellent education and community Houston Academy provides. Being a Raider Ambassador allows me to represent the school I love and that is why I am so honored to be in this position. Go Raiders!

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