I’m a retired veteran having served honorably in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Army and currently serve as the Chaplain at Hargrave Military Academy in Chatham, Virginia — an institution that stands for excellence, character, and leadership development. In 2021, I was humbled to become the first African American Chaplain in Hargrave’s 116-year history — a historic responsibility that I carry with great reverence and resolve.At Hargrave, my mission is to create a space where young men can grow academically, spiritually, and personally. I strive to lead with grace, serve with integrity, and help these young men discover their God-given purpose. Whether I’m preaching, mentoring, or simply listening, I do it all with a heart grounded in 1 Thessalonians 2:8 — “We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.”My work at Hargrave extends beyond the chapel. I’m a founding member of the Faith Pillar Advisory Committee (FPAC), where we promote religious inclusion, interfaith dialogue, and a campus culture rooted in the values of love, respect, and unity. Through FPAC, we embrace the principle of “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31) and ensure that cadets of all faith traditions feel seen, supported, and spiritually nurtured.I also serve as the Advising Director for our Young Life chapter and founded the 3M Club — a mentoring group focused on authentic, biblically grounded manhood, where young men can grow in faith, accountability, and purpose.Before coming to Hargrave, I spent over 20 years in youth ministry. I’ve served in leadership roles across the country — from Associate Pastor at Crossroads Church in Desoto, Texas, to Youth Missions and Outreach Director at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, and Area Director for Young Life in Dallas. Each of these roles taught me something profound about young people — about their hunger for truth, their need for belonging, and the power of a mentor who listens and cares.I hold a degree in Social Work from Fayetteville State University and am currently pursuing my Master’s in Biblical Studies at Lancaster Bible College. My wife, Dr. Demarius Washington, and I have been married for 25 years, and we are proud parents to three amazing children: Kyla, Timothy, and Xavier. Our youngest, Xavier, is a sixth grader at Hargrave, part of a historic expansion that welcomed middle school students back for the first time in over 20 years. Watching him thrive in this environment is a reminder of why I do what I do.In addition to my roles at Hargrave, I’m an active member of Cornerstone Church of Christ, the Chatham Rotary Club, and a proud new member of the NAACP. These communities of service continue to sharpen my vision and deepen my commitment to building a more just and compassionate world.It is from this place of faith, experience, and community that I now lead the Religious Affairs Committee. My hope is to use this platform to inspire dialogue, foster unity, and equip our faith communities to stand boldly for justice.Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve. I look forward to partnering with each of you as we continue the sacred work of advancing civil rights — with wisdom, courage, and love.