Featured Speakers and Panelists

Favorite Quote:

“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” – Theodore Roosevelt

About:

The Right Rev. Dr. Trevor Alexander was born in Romford, Essex, in England.  He and his wife, the Rev. Dr. Emma Alexander, have three wonderful girls and one beautiful and cute granddaughter. Bishop Trevor retired from the U.S. Army in 1994. Bishop Trevor holds an undergraduate degree from the University of the Incarnate Word in Psychology (holding an emphasis on family) and Religious Studies, along with a Master of Arts degree in Pastoral Ministry from the Oblate School of Theology, a Doctor of Divinity Degree from St. Thomas Christian College & Seminary, Jacksonville, Florida, and is currently working on another Post Doctorate in Christian Counseling, Bread of Life Theological Seminary, San Antonio, Texas.  

Bishop Alexander is currently serving at the University of Incarnate Word for 26 years as the Protestant Chaplain and Adjunct Faculty. Amongst his other accomplishments, he is the Senior Pastor of True Vine Church and the Texas South Regional Bishop for the Kingdom Council of Interdependent Christian Churches & Ministries.  

Bishop Trevor has published serval articles on matters pertaining to the African American community and has presented at numerous conferences, locally, nationally, and internationally. On February 15, 2016, he was inducted into the San Antonio Black Worship Hall of Fame. In February 2018, Bishop was recognized by the University of the Incarnate Word, Black History Month Committee, with the Alumni of Distinction Ward. He recently completed a 4-year term as the Vice President of the United States Catholic Mission Association (USCMA) and continues serving the Association.  He is a Dr. King Scholar and has published several articles on Dr. King's Beloved Community. 

About:

Chaplain Bryant Casteel currently serves as a ACPE Certified Educator at Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX. Chaplain Casteel works with CPE Resident Students in their educational process. Chaplain Casteel was called to the Chaplaincy in Seminary, where he received a direct appointment in the Air Force Chaplain Candidate program. After September 11, Chaplain Casteel felt called to join the Army Chaplaincy, he crossed over from Air Force Blue to Army Green in 2007. He is an ordained Baptist minister and has earned a Marriage and Family Therapy and Doctor of Ministry degree. Chaplain Casteel has been married to his wife, Penny, for 23 years and they have nine children.

Chaplain Casteel’s previous assignments include: Family Life Chaplain, Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Arlington, VA; Family life Course, Fort Hood, Killeen, TX; BDE Chaplain, 2ID, Korea; BN Chaplain, Fort Jackson, SC; Warrior Transition Battalion Chaplain, Fort Sam Houston, TX; Chaplain Resident (Clinical Pastoral Education) at Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX; BN Chaplain, Fort Leonard Wood, MO; Squadron Chaplain, Fort Lewis, WA. He was an Air Force Chaplain Candidate, and served at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Tucson, AZ; Vandenberg Space Force Base, Vandenberg, CA.

Chaplain Casteel served in Iraq during Operation Enduring Freedom. Prior to the Army, Chaplain Casteel played college basketball at San Diego Christian College, in San Diego, CA. He served 7 years as Urban ministries pastor at Shadow Mountain Community Church in San Diego, CA.

His Formal Education: Doctor of Ministry, Erskine Theological Seminary, Due West, SC, Master of Science, Texas A&M University-Central Texas, Killen, TX, Master of Divinity, Southern California Seminary, San Diego, CA, Master of Arts Biblical Studies, Southern California Seminary, San Diego, CA, Master of Religious Studies, Southern California Seminary, San Diego, CA, and Bachelor of Arts, Bible New Testament Greek, San Diego Christian College, San Diego, CA.

His military awards and decorations include: Meritorious Service Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Commendation Medal (with 3 Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, The Army Service Ribbon, The Overseas Service Ribbon, and The Parachutist Badge.

Favorite Scriptures:

"Beyond Mountains, Are Mountains" ... Keep Climbing (Haitian Proverb) 

"Professional Leadership Excellence and Synergistic Teamwork" (LTG Dingle) 

"Endure Hardness As a Good Soldier of Christ Jesus" (2 Timothy 2:3) 

About:

Dr. Thomas M. Evans is the 10th president of the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW). Founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, UIW today is the largest Catholic university in Texas with a global enrollment of more than 10,000 students who reflect the diversity of South Texas, Mexico and the world. 

As president, Evans oversees the management of the UIW system, which includes multiple campuses in San Antonio, international campuses, and St. Anthony Catholic High School. Globally, UIW maintains two campuses in Mexico, a European Study Center, and Global Online. In San Antonio, the University encompasses five health professions schools, five liberal arts schools and one college. Academically, UIW is a University of distinction. Many of its 110-plus programs at the undergraduate, graduate and professional Ph.D. levels have earned honors and accolades. UIW Athletics encompasses 14 sports across 25 programs, including 22 NCAA Division I teams. 

Evans is a member of many professional and civic organizations in San Antonio, across the state of Texas, nationally and internationally. 

He holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Texas at Austin; a Master of Arts in Asian Studies from UT-Austin; and a Bachelor of Science in Language Arts with a major in Japanese and a minor in Theology from Georgetown University where he studied abroad at Keio University's Center for Japanese Language and Culture in Tokyo. 

Favorite Scripture:

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.

If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.

If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” - 1 Corinthians 13: 1-3

About:

I was born in Glendale, California, and began my military journey when I joined the United States Army in 2011. Since then, the Army has taken me to communities and assignments across the United States and overseas, each contributing to my personal and professional growth.

Throughout my military career, I have been stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska; Fort Carson, Colorado; Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; and Vicenza, Italy. In 2018, I deployed to Afghanistan, an experience that provided invaluable lessons in leadership, resilience, teamwork, and service.

Today, I serve as an Army ROTC Military Science Instructor at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas. In this role, I have the opportunity to mentor and develop the next generation of Army officers, sharing the knowledge and experiences I have gained throughout my career while helping college students prepare for the challenges and responsibilities of military leadership.

Outside of the Army, my greatest source of pride is my family. I am married to my wife, Patricia, and we have two daughters, Riley and Madelyn. They have been an important part of my journey and have supported me through the many moves, deployments, and challenges that come with a military career.

My commitment to learning has continued alongside my military service. I earned a bachelor's degree in Business Information Technology and am currently pursuing a master's degree in Cybersecurity Studies. Combining my military experience with my education in technology and cybersecurity has allowed me to continue developing professionally while preparing for opportunities beyond my current career.

From growing up in California to serving across the United States and abroad, my journey has been shaped by service, family, education, and a commitment to continued growth. I look forward to carrying those values into every chapter that comes next.

Favorite Quote:

"Believe you can and you're halfway there." - Theodore Roosevelt

About:

Mrs. Stephanie L. Gray serves as the Administrative Assistant for the UIW Center for Chaplaincy at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) in San Antonio, Texas. In her current role, she supports Clinical Pastoral Education students, assists with the development of graduate-level degrees and certificates through the Center for Chaplaincy, and coordinates the Center’s annual events and initiatives.

A proud UIW alumna with a degree in Meteorology, Mrs. Gray is currently pursuing her MBA at the university. With more than 25 years of leadership and management experience, she brings expertise in personnel development, scientific research, grant writing, program development, and community outreach.

Previously, Mrs. Gray served as a Community Educator and led UIW’s GEMS (Girls in Engineering, Math, and Science) program beginning in 2018. Under her leadership, the program expanded through innovative initiatives, including STEAM kit distributions, miniGEMS virtual clubs, spring break camps, and the megaGEMS Research Camp and Apprenticeship. Her commitment to mission-driven outreach continues to support and inspire the next generation.

Favorite Quotes:

“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.

If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.

Favorite Scripture:

If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” - 1 Corinthians 13: 1-3

About:

I was born in Glendale, California, and began my military journey when I joined the United States Army in 2011. Since then, the Army has taken me to communities and assignments across the United States and overseas, each contributing to my personal and professional growth.

Throughout my military career, I have been stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska; Fort Carson, Colorado; Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; and Vicenza, Italy. In 2018, I deployed to Afghanistan, an experience that provided invaluable lessons in leadership, resilience, teamwork, and service.

Today, I serve as an Army ROTC Military Science Instructor at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas. In this role, I have the opportunity to mentor and develop the next generation of Army officers, sharing the knowledge and experiences I have gained throughout my career while helping college students prepare for the challenges and responsibilities of military leadership.

Outside of the Army, my greatest source of pride is my family. I am married to my wife, Patricia, and we have two daughters, Riley and Madelyn. They have been an important part of my journey and have supported me through the many moves, deployments, and challenges that come with a military career.

My commitment to learning has continued alongside my military service. I earned a bachelor's degree in Business Information Technology and am currently pursuing a master's degree in Cybersecurity Studies. Combining my military experience with my education in technology and cybersecurity has allowed me to continue developing professionally while preparing for opportunities beyond my current career.

From growing up in California to serving across the United States and abroad, my journey has been shaped by service, family, education, and a commitment to continued growth. I look forward to carrying those values into every chapter that comes next.

About:

Charles Holland is an accomplished military veteran, organizational leader, and ministry professional with a distinguished career defined by strategic leadership, public service, and community development. 

Military Career and Decorations 

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Holland completed 23 years of dedicated military service, earning two Purple Hearts and the Combat Action Badge for valor. His qualifications include the Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and graduation from both the Battle Staff Course and the Route Clearance Leader Course. 

Professional Experience and Education 

Building upon his extensive military background, Holland has served in vital administrative and healthcare capacities with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Defense Health Agency. Currently, he lends his expertise as a Human Resources Assistant supporting the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) under the U.S. Army Cadet Command. 

Holland's academic background includes: 

• Master of Science in Health Administration – Capella University (Graduated with honors) 
• Bachelor of Science in Business Management (Leadership Concentration) – Capella University (Graduated with honors) 
• Ph.D. Candidate in Organizational Leadership – University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) 

An active figure in faith-based leadership, Holland is the founder of Greater Nation Christian Fellowship in Bamberg, Germany, and a member of Faith Worship Center–The Oasis in San Antonio. Over his ministry career, he has served as a lay minister, associate elder, senior elder, and pastor, providing spiritual guidance to congregations in Schweinfurt and Bamberg, Germany, as well as Spring Lake, North Carolina. 

Favorite Quote:

Guided by a profound commitment to integrity and service, Holland often reflects on the principle expressed in his favorite quotation: "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." 

Favorite Scripture:

“But those who wait for the LORD’s help find renewed strength; they rise up as if they had eagles’ wings.” — Isaiah 40:31

About:

Chaplain Kirkpatrick is a native of Fairbanks, Alaska, and has served in the Army for more than 16 years. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of North Alabama and a Master of Divinity in Chaplaincy from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary. She is currently completing her Doctor of Ministry at Wesley Theological Seminary, where her research focuses on spiritual health assessment for organizations.

Chaplain Kirkpatrick began her military career as an Adjutant General Corps officer before discerning a call to Army Chaplaincy. In 2015, she became a Chaplain in the Alaska Army National Guard and transitioned to Active Duty in 2018. Her assignments have included service with the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, the 741st Military Intelligence Battalion, and Army Clinical Pastoral Education. Her clinical ministry background also includes a Palliative Care Chaplaincy Fellowship.

Chaplain Kirkpatrick currently serves with the 44th Medical Brigade at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Her ministry sits at the intersection of operational and clinical chaplaincy, with particular interests in spiritual readiness, moral injury, pastoral care, and helping Chaplains recognize the spiritual health of organizations and translate those insights into meaningful care and command advisement.

She is married to Chaplain Robert Sterling, who also serves as an Army Chaplain, and they have one daughter, Abigail.

Favorite Scripture:

“The world was made flesh.” - John 1:14

About:

While Sr. Walter Maher, CCVI, is the newest member of the Congregation’s International JPIC Committee, she is certainly not new to the work for peace and justice.  A member of the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word for over 50 years, she currently serves as the Vice President for Mission and Ministry at the University of the Incarnate Word.  She has been in that role since 2009 after leaving congregational leadership, and it is evident when speaking with her that she has a deep passion for the work she does to share and inspire the CCVI mission in others.  

For Sr. Walter, “Justice is not separate from mission; they are one.  Justice is about looking around, knowing what the concrete needs are, and figuring out how I can respond.  That’s our mission.”  And it is with great joy that she shares this mission with students, staff, faculty, and administrators at the University through various formation programs and opportunities.  

In addition to formation, another very important part of Sr. Walter’s ministry is facilitating the life of prayer and worship at the University.  She sees this as the real work of the University: to inspire students, faculty, and staff through opportunities of communal prayer and worship, in order to understand the heart of the Mission and identity of the University and allow that inspiration to move them forward.  She also brings in the writings and messages of the global Catholic Church, reflecting on recent encyclicals and tying in the theme of the Year of Mercy to retreats and reflections last year.  

Sr. Walter believes that the shared life of prayer and worship can transform, and encourages all to participate, even those who aren’t Catholic, because they are one community.  The dignity of every student, of every religion, is respected and uplifted in an active inter-faith council at the University as well.  Sr. Walter says, “We can all come together, knowing we are working for the common good.”  What a beautiful lived example of social justice for our world!  

With a long history of ministry in education since she entered the Congregation, it is no surprise that Sr. Walter loves her work with students.  Just as she shares her passion for mission and ministry, the student’s passion for working for justice in the world inspires her as well.  She is particularly excited about one dream that became a reality last year when the University became a Catholic Relief Services (CRS) designated university.  There were about 30 students who attended an all-day training about CRS and left full of energy and commitment to this work.  Some of the current focuses of the group are on climate change, fair trade, and migration.  

She is also inspired by the dedication of the faculty and staff to the Mission of the University.  Currently she is working with faculty of the graduate level programs to integrate Catholic Social Teaching into the curriculum.  There is a group of 20 people who gather together to reflect on issues of social justice from the lens of Catholic Social Teaching on a personal, communal, structural, and global level.  

When reflecting on her many and varied responsibilities in her ministry, Sr. Walter acknowledges that she is, “all over the place, but the power of presence is so important.  I really see my ministry as a ministry of presence.  As a representative of the Congregation, I hear students, staff, and faculty acknowledge how important my presence is and that I’m not afraid to jump in where needed, doing what needs to be done while always keeping the larger vision of our mission present.”  This is also apparent in her open-door policy.  She always has an open door for anyone in need of to come in, share with her, and together they can help figure out a response to any problem as it arises.  

Even with her many responsibilities and busy schedule at the University, Sr. Walter was still willing to say yes when invited to serve as a member of the Congregation’s International Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation Committee.  She brings with her an open heart, and many years of experience serving in diverse communities and responding to a variety of needs.  She sees this as just one more way she can continue to serve the Congregation, which she says has so richly blessed her own life.   

Thank you, Sr. Walter, for your “Yes” to collaborate with the International JPIC Committee, and for all the passion, love, and humility you bring to your ministry with the University of the Incarnate Word.  What a blessing to all who benefit from your many gifts, shared so generously! 

About:

Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) James "Justin" Nance, a native of southern and eastern New Mexico, received his commission from the Early Commissioning Program at the New Mexico Military Institute in 2006. LTC Nance's first assignment was in the Texas Army National Guard; he served as a platoon leader in Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion 142nd Infantry Regiment, while finishing his Bachelor of Science in Biology from Texas Tech University. 

LTC Nance transitioned to Active Duty in 2009, attended the Basic Officer Leaders Course, and was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Fort Campbell, KY. There he served as Company Executive Officer in the Division Headquarters Battalion and deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom X. Upon redeployment, LTC Nance attended the Captain's Career Course while completing his Master of Science Degree in Geological Engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology. 

LTC Nance's first assignment following the Civil Affairs Qualification Course was as Team Leader for CAT 8025 in the 80th Civil Affairs Battalion at Fort Bliss, TX. He was stationed at Fort Hood in 2015 as the 1st Brigade (Iron Horse) Civil Affairs Officer (S9) with the 1st Cavalry Division. He deployed in support of the Republic of Korea Rotation before taking command of one of the few Army Ceremonial Units, the Horse Cavalry Detachment. There LTC Nance led over 200 mounted cavalry demonstrations across the United States. Following command and resident graduation from the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. LTC Nance returned to Fort Campbell as the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Deputy Civil Affairs Officer (G9). In 2020, LTC Nance deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve as the SOJTF-OIR Deputy Future Plans Officer (J35) before assuming command and deploying Echo Company, 96th Civil Affairs Battalion (Special Operations) (Airborne) to the Levant in support of the same named operation. Upon redeployment he was assigned as the Battalion Executive Officer, 92nd Civil Affairs Battalion (Special Operations) (Airborne) and most recently as the Operations Officer for the Office of Special Warfare, 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne). 

LTC Nance's military education includes the Chemical Officer Basic Course; Engineer Captains Career Course; the Civil Affairs Qualification Course; Special Operations Language Course-Modern Standard Arabic; Survival, Escape, Resistance, Evasion-C; and the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, KS. His awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2OLC), Joint Service Commendation Medal (1OLC), Army Commendation Medal (2OLC), Joint Meritorious Unit Medal (1OLC), Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Army Space Badge, Gold German Armed Forces Badge of Military Proficiency, and Italian Foreign Jump Wings. 

LTC Nance is married to the lovely Major Chelsea Nance with U.S. Army Reserves and has two daughters, Hazel (3) and Cora (2). 

About:

Fr. Donald S. Nesti, CSSp, a native of Pennsylvania, was ordained to the priesthood in 1963. He earned a licentiate and a doctorate in theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. He served his missionary order, the Congregation of the Holy Spirit in many capacities. Fr. Nesti’s teaching assignments include Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA; the Pontifical College Josephinum, Columbus, OH; and the University of St. Thomas. In the administrative field, he served as Director of the Immaculate Heart Seminary, Bethel Park, PA: Director of Planning, Research and Renewal, Congregation of the Holy Ghost USA - Eastern Province; President, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA; and Provincial Superior, Congregation of the Holy Ghost USA - Western Province. Currently, he teaches at the University of St. Thomas in the Masters in Faith and Culture program. Fr. Nesti founded the Center in 1994 in response to Pope John Paul II’s 1982 creation of the Pontifical Council for Culture. The Center for Faith and Culture seeks to understand and affect the relationship between the worldview of Catholic faith and culture.  

Fr. Nesti’s leadership enables the center to instill in those it touches- through both degree programs and ecumenical outreach- a desire to understand and respect people of all faiths and cultures. Because of Fr. Nesti, the Center for Faith and Culture has become one of UST’s most visible symbols of the relationship between the love embodied in the gospel and those uniquely American values set forth by our Founding Fathers.”

Favorite Scripture:

“Lord, I do believe, help my unbelief!” – Mark 9:24

About:

Megan Nixon currently serves as the Director of Religious Education at JBSA Ft. Sam Houston. 

She was previously employed by the Diocese of Buffalo in the Department of Lifelong Faith Formation for four years and served in parish ministry as a Coordinator of Religious Education for twelve years. 

She holds a Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology from St. Joseph’s College of Maine, a Certificate in Church Management from Villanova University, and a Certificate in Religious Education from Loyola University New Orleans. 

She is married with 3 children and one granddaughter. 

Full profile details will be published ahead of the symposium.

Personal Leadership Mantra:

“Purpose leads, strength follows.” — Dr. Meaghan B. Simmons

Favorite Quote:

“The time is always right to do what is right.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Favorite Scripture:

“...to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.” — Micah 6:8 (KJV)

About:

Dr. Meaghan B. Simmons is a senior leader, scholar, published researcher, and speaker whose work explores the intersection of moral and ethical leadership, resilience, organizational culture, and human development.

With more than two decades of leadership experience, much of it within the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps, Dr. Simmons has spent her career helping leaders and organizations navigate the human dimensions of leadership - character, values, trust, purpose, spiritual readiness, and the responsibility leaders carry for the people they serve. She currently serves as the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps and Regimental Sergeant Major at the Office of the Chief of Chaplains.

Throughout her career in the Army Chaplain Corps, Dr. Simmons has worked at the intersection of leadership, faith, ethics, and organizational culture. Her experience has shaped her belief that moral leadership is demonstrated not simply by the values an organization professes, but by the decisions leaders make, the climates they create, the dignity they afford others, and the courage they demonstrate when doing what is right comes at a cost.

Dr. Simmons earned her Doctor of Business Administration from Trident University International, building upon a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies. Her academic and professional interests converge around leadership, culture, resilience, character, and organizational effectiveness.

She is the author of the peer-reviewed article, “Enhancing Organizational Effectiveness in the Army Through Resilience-Building Strategies,” published in the AIUS Journal of Research & Scholarship in July 2026. Her research examines how organizational culture and leadership influence resilience and highlights the role of trust, meaningful relationships, ethical leadership, recognition, communication, and genuine support in building resilient organizations.

As a speaker, Dr. Simmons brings together scholarship and lived leadership experience, translating lessons from more than 20 years of service into practical insights applicable across military, corporate, nonprofit, educational, faith-based, and community organizations. She challenges leaders to think beyond programs and policies and consider the culture they create through their everyday decisions, relationships, and behaviors.

At the heart of Dr. Simmons' leadership philosophy is a simple conviction: purpose must come before position. She believes people and organizations are strongest when leaders understand who they are, why their work matters, and how their character and choices shape the lives of those they are entrusted to lead.