2026 Graduates

EDNA – Edna moved to the Boothe Campus in 2014 and graduated from Pettus High School in 2021. Knowing exactly what she wanted to do in life, she pursued a degree in social work. In 2025, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree from Hardin-Simmons University. She then continued her education and earned her master’s degree in social work from Our Lady of the Lake University in May 2026. Edna’s next step will be joining STCH Ministries as a social worker. Reflecting on her experience, Edna shared: “Throughout my undergraduate and graduate journeys, I was grateful for encouragement to continue pursuing my goals and growing spiritually. I am also grateful for the financial support from STCH Ministries that allowed me to graduate without debt and to focus more on my education. This financial support was especially instrumental as it allowed me to choose to work part-time during the completion of my undergraduate and graduate internships.”

TAHEEN – In 2016, Taheen moved to the Boothe Campus. Four years later, she graduated from Pettus High School. After graduation, Taheen attended Coastal Bend College while beginning work with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. In May 2026, she graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree. Her future plans include joining the United States Air Force Reserve while continuing her work with TDCJ. She shared her appreciation for STCH Ministries: “The support from STCH Ministries has been tremendous! I came from a broken home where I was in and out of the system and never knew where I would be or if it would fit the needs of a child. When I was living at STCH Ministries, the houseparents that I lived with were patient and helped me heal and learn that I was safe. Without STCH Ministries, I do not know where I would be today. I had zero support before living there. Now I’ve graduated from high school and college! I have a great job and have been able to take care of my younger sibling. STCH Ministries has opened doors for me that I thought would be closed off. Thank you, God, the houseparents, the administration and the donors that gave me a chance to become the person I always hoped to be!”

DERAY – Deray moved to the Boothe Campus in 2015 and graduated from Pettus High School in May 2021. During high school, he discovered a passion for film and cinematography. In May 2026, Deray graduated from Houston Christian University with a bachelor’s degree in cinematic arts. Looking ahead, he plans to pursue a master’s degree in acting and screenwriting. Reflecting on his journey, Deray shared: “It meant everything to me to have STCH Ministries’ support through college. Ever since I was a kid, STCH Ministries has always had my back and supported me. Them supporting me in college is a display of how God’s love isn’t momentary.”

JIAN – In 2016, Jian moved to the STCH Ministries Boothe Campus and graduated from Pettus High School in 2019. After high school, Jian attended Texas A&M University–Kingsville, where he became deeply involved with the Baptist Student Ministry. In May 2026, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in general psychology. Although uncertain about his long-term plans, Jian intends to spend a year working construction with a friend. During that time, he will be praying about his future as he transitions from college, with seminary being a possible next step. Jian shared: “It meant so much to me to have an opportunity to graduate from college without debt of any kind. It was made possible by God’s will being done through the staff at STCH Ministries Boothe Campus. My final caseworker, Takia Tennison, was incredibly patient in my most difficult season and prayed for me often. The care packages from various houseparents were always welcome and appreciated, especially during the more difficult season. I wouldn’t have made it through college without the wonderful support from my college friends and the Boothe Campus staff.”

JOSH – Josh lived on the Boothe Campus for a total of seven years, first as a young child and later for three years during high school. He graduated from Pettus High School in 2018. Unsure of what path to pursue next, Josh enrolled at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. In May 2026, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in social work. Josh plans to remain in the Rio Grande Valley and pursue a career in the social work field. He will also return to school in the fall to begin work toward his master’s degree in social work. Reflecting on his journey, Josh shared his gratitude: “To have the support of STCH Ministries while going to college meant everything to me. Without it, I don’t know where I would be. I absolutely love the fact people have the heart to support STCH Ministries and the kids there. I also wouldn’t have made it this far without the God given people at STCH Ministries who have come along side me during my time in college.”

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE, CHRISTOPHER – My favorite memory from my time here is being able to travel on mission trips. On the Boothe Campus, I have learned to speak up for myself and to listen whenever someone needs to talk. What I will miss most is the sense of community I have here. My plans for next year are to attend Blinn College and later transfer to Texas A&M University to pursue a career in teaching while also working in real estate on the side.