Faculty-and-Staff-Stories, Academics
Voices of Calling: Women Who Shape Our Concordia Texas Community
March 27, 2026
Leadership is not defined by title alone; it is revealed through service, through faith, and through a commitment to uplifting others.
Across our campus, women are mentoring students, strengthening communities, and living out their calling in ways that leave a lasting impact. Their influence is not always loud or visible, but it is deeply felt.
This Women’s History Month, celebrate some of the women who shape the Concordia University Texas community with us!
Leading with Purpose
Purpose shows up propelling us in everyday moments—the extra time given to a student, the quiet encouragement, the willingness to serve even when it’s not easy.
For Iza Castillo, director of admissions and recruitment, her purpose is rooted in faith. It’s something she returns to daily, especially in moments that require discernment and strength.
“My faith is the foundation of how I lead. I rely on prayer and discernment in the way I serve others—especially in seasons that feel heavy, it’s my faith that anchors me.”
Guiding Growth and Discovery
Some of the most meaningful leadership happens in the in-between moments, when students are still figuring out who they are and who they are becoming.
Arriyon Parker, director of student life, describes her calling for fostering professional development and walking alongside students as they navigate self-discovery and growth during their college experience. Her work reflects a commitment to meeting students where they are while helping them take meaningful steps forward.
By creating space for that growth, she is helping students build confidence, gain direction, and better understand their purpose. This kind of leadership does more than prepare students for what comes next; it helps them become who they are meant to be.
A Legacy of Faithful Leadership
Leadership is often measured by outcomes, but just as often, it is defined by how people are treated along the way.
For Sharon Whightsil, accessibility coordinator, leaving a legacy of faithful leadership means ensuring every student is seen, heard, and valued. Her work centers on creating spaces where students feel supported not just academically but as individuals navigating complex and personal experiences.
Established in faith, her leadership is guided by compassion and intentionality approaching each decision with a deep respect for the dignity of others. She leads with the belief that every student’s story matters and deserves to be met with care.
That commitment is especially evident in the way she walks alongside students: listening, advocating, and helping them find confidence in their voice. In those moments, leadership becomes more than a role; it becomes a reflection of service.
Her approach is a reminder that leadership, at its core, is not just about direction, but about presence, showing up with empathy, extending grace, and ensuring that no one feels overlooked.
Creating Spaces of Belonging
At Concordia Texas, leadership is often expressed through the environments we create spaces where individuals feel seen, supported, and valued. These everyday moments shape a community rooted in connection and care.
"Leadership for me is about creating intentional spaces where people feel seen, valued, and like they truly belong. I do this by listening well, removing barriers when possible, and believing that the best work is done in partnership with others."
— Cindy Melendez | Chief of Staff
Her perspective reflects a key part of the Concordia experience: leadership that prioritizes people. By fostering a sense of belonging and working alongside others, leaders like Cindy are helping build a community where individuals are empowered to grow, contribute, and thrive.
Fostering Confidence and Belonging
A sense of belonging is often what allows students to grow into who they are meant to be. When students feel seen and supported, they begin to step forward with greater confidence both in themselves and in their future.
Gisselle Guajardo, transitions coordinator for student development, shares that she feels called to create spaces where students feel welcomed, valued, and confident in who they are becoming. Through that work, she helps cultivate an environment where students are not only encouraged but empowered to embrace their identity and potential.
This kind of leadership creates a lasting impact. When students gain confidence in who they are, they carry that with them beyond their time on campus, into their careers, their communities, and the lives they are called to lead.
A Community That Lifts One Another
One of the most defining characteristics of CTX is the way this community supports and uplifts one another. Leadership here is not a solo journey; it is strengthened through mentorship, encouragement, and a shared commitment to serving others with purpose.
That spirit is reflected in the leadership of Dr. Kristi Kirk, president and CEO of Concordia University Texas, who was recently recognized as the 2026 Responsibility Honoree by First Tee.
Dr. Kirk’s journey, from student to University president, demonstrates what it means to lead with resilience, humility, and faith. Her story is a powerful example of how women at Concordia University Texas step into leadership with both strength and servant-hearted purpose.
Her impact extends beyond her title, shaping not only the University, but the lives of those within it. In many ways, her leadership reflects the broader community of women across campus, those who lead with intention, live out their calling, and inspire others to do the same.
At Concordia University Texas, it is an honor to have many women leading students, staff, faculty, and a community in pursuit of Christ’s calling!
About the Author
Kylie "KB" Bowman is the Digital Content Specialist at Concordia University Texas. She graduated from CTX in 2024 with her undergrad in Marketing and is now working towards her MBA.
