Distinguished Speaker Luncheon Highlights
Second Baptist School’s 17th Annual Distinguished Speaker Luncheon was a slam dunk with Scott Drew, head coach of the National Championship-Winning Baylor Men’s Basketball Team. Coach Drew fired up the crowd of nearly 900 at the Hilton Americas on Tuesday, November 1, with words of faith and stories of perseverance. He was as lively on stage, speaking to the SBS community as he is on the court sidelines coaching his team. Director of Advancement Dyanne Kimmel concurred, “Scott Drew enthusiastically challenged us all to live a life centered on J.O.Y.-Jesus, Others, Yourself.”
In his book, The Road to J.O.Y., Coach Drew encourages readers to live out their faith. At the luncheon, he shared stories of wins and losses, team statistics, the importance of Christian education and his personal testimony about his relentless pursuit of excellence, on and off the court, with his team and his family. “I’ve got three kids. Now, we know you can’t work your way into heaven. I want them to be successful. I want them to be great disciples of Christ. Most of all, I want to see them in heaven,” he shared.
Coach Drew’s message aligned with the mission of Second Baptist School-to equip students to think critically, live biblically and lead courageously to impact the world for Jesus Christ. It was reflected throughout the program.
This year’s Distinguished Alumna award went to Dr. Mary Carol Mazza ‘99, a behavioral scientist and user experience researcher focused on catalyzing social impact and positive human behavior through tech products. Mary Carol’s travels across all 50 states and over 70 countries explain her successes, her passion for people and her love and hope in the Lord.
Laura and Curt Kates, affectionately known as “Mama and Papa Kates”, were honored with the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Parents award for their commitment and contributions to the SBS community, from their three children to their grandchildren who now attend SBS.
“It’s always great seeing so many alumni parents joining our current families and guests at the Distinguished Speaker Luncheon,” continued Kimmel. “The sense of community and the love for our faculty and staff are evident at this event. It says a lot about not only our teachers but about our school.”
It’s the difference between SBS and other schools, good and excellent and the road to joy.