Board of Directors
Dietrich Bonhoeffer Academy is incorporated as a nonprofit organization in the state of Texas overseen by the school’s Board of Directors.
Judy Adams – President
Judy Adams brings a wealth of educational knowledge and expertise to the Board of Directors. Recently retired from River Oaks Baptist School, Judy served as a Middle School Teacher, Middle School Principal, and Associate Head of School for Academics. Her experience as school leader is a valuable resource for DBA. Judy is also an active member of Faith Lutheran Church in Bellaire, where she helps guide the Faith Care Ministry Team and volunteers at the Faith House. She resides in southwest Houston with her husband George as the proud mother of two sons and grandmother to five children.
Paul Christesen – Director
Paul Christesen is William R. Kenan Professor of Ancient Greek History in the Department of Classics at Dartmouth College. He has written or edited six books and more than 30 articles over the course of his distinguished career. His areas of expertise include ancient Greek history and the relationship between sports and political systems. He holds a Ph.D. from Columbia University, and he is life fellow of Clare Hall at Cambridge University. In addition to more than 25 years of teaching experience, Paul spent a decade running a non-profit in New York that assisted college students from under-resourced areas. He had the privilege of teaching the incoming Head of School as an undergraduate, and is looking forward to helping realize Eric’s vision for DBA.
Elizabeth Dye – Secretary
Lizz Dye is excited to supply her legal insights to the Board of Directors. As an attorney specializing in the field of construction law, she represents clients in a wide array of complex litigation matters. A Houston native and graduate of Episcopal High School in Bellaire, Lizz also provides an excellent understanding of the educational landscape in Houston. She and her husband Matt are looking forward to the future after recently tying the knot.
Preston Julian – Director
Preston Julian looks forward to bringing his extensive asset management and financial skills to the Board of Directors. Preston is a Texas born and educated engineer and real estate investor. A graduate of the University of Houston, his ties in the community are strong. Preston has always supported economic advancement through quality education and hard work. He has served on multiple college level educational boards, offering development support and organizational foresight. He works closely with his son Lloyd, who is also supporting DBA with his talents and knowledge.
Ryan Lerch – Treasurer
Ryan Lerch is proud to contribute his business acumen and leadership experience to the Board of Directors. A career employee of the world’s largest aerospace corporation, he is known for consistent excellence while working in diverse areas of operations and internal audit. Ryan has also served on numerous church boards, offering extensive understanding of the keys to successful nonprofit governance. He lives in Richmond with his wife Kathi, where they can be close to their three grandchildren.