Joshua is a strategic leader with a strong sales,marketing, business development, and customer engagement background. With a career in industrial sales, he thrives on building strong relationships, fostering growth, and driving solution-oriented outcomes that create long-term success. His passion for people and mentorship is at the core of everything he does, whether in business, ministry, or community service. Beyond his professional work, Joshua has a deep-rooted history in family ministry, having served in leadership roles within large churches for many years. His commitment to strengthening families and fostering meaningful connections has been central to his life's mission.As a husband and father, Joshua finds his greatest joy in family. He has been married for 20 years to his best friend, Melissa, and together they have five children—two biological and three adopted. His experiences as a husband, father, and mentor fuel his dedication to The Momentum Academy, where he helps create opportunities for students to grow,learn, and thrive.Through his role on the board, Joshua brings leadership,compassion, and a vision for empowering the next generation.
Liz Webb is a CPA with over 25 years of experience in the public and private sectors. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration from The University of St. Thomas and her Master of Science in Accounting from The University of Houston: Clear Lake.Liz lives in Houston with her husband and two school-aged sons. She enjoys baking and gardening.
Al Garza, his wife, Kim Garza, and their son, Cody Garza, own and operate Al Garza's Premier Martial Arts. They currently have three locations - League City, Dickinson, and Pearland. Al began his Martial Arts training when he was 16 years old,and now holds Black Belt degrees in four different Martial Arts, but passionately believes that "sometimes a teacher - always a student". Therefore, he recently began training in another Martial Art called Brazilian Jujitsu where he began as a White Belt beginner and has recently achieved his blue belt. His positions held, or certifications earned,have included a Police Self Defense Tactics Instructor, a Ladies Rape Aggression Defense Instructor, a John Maxwell Certified Speaker/Trainer/Coach,a 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Certified Teacher, 1998-1999 Rotary Club past president of the Dickinson Rotary Club, and he is an ordained minister. Al has traveled to 9 countries competing in Martial Arts tournaments, Kickboxing, and training in the Martial Arts of the country, all the while sharing the Gospel as he travels. He says, "There is nothing like airplane ministry with a 'captured audience.'" Al is currently the Chief Grand Master of Premier Martial Arts International which services 200 plus Martial Arts Schools worldwide and Sinawali Boxing in Hamburg, Germany where he inspires school owners in leadership, faith, and martial arts skills. He also currently serves on the TECOL Advisory Board for College of the Mainland in Texas City,Texas and on the Advisory Board for the League City Police Department in League City, Texas. On January 27, 2023, the City of Dickinson, by proclamation,declared November 29, 2023 (the date that Garza opened his first Martial Arts school in Dickinson) to be Al Garza Day in Dickinson, Texas. Al has been married to his wife, Kim, for 44years. They have three children and ten grandchildren. His favorite start to the day is to read God’s Word and share a daily devotional with the people under his influence.
Paul McRae has a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Master of Science in Environmental Management. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in both Texas and California. Paul worked for 34 years in the space industry for a major aerospace company. Paul has an extensive background of volunteer work. He has been a reading tutor for elementary level students along with math tutoring at the elementary level. He has also been a voluntary adult leader and teacher for senior high level students.
Shannon holds a degree in Administration with a focus in Marketing at California Polytechnic University.Shannon is married and shares her home with her husband Tracey, her daughters Kathleen and Gracie, and her 3 dogs and cat! She has lived in League City, Texas for 21 years. She loves sports, specifically football and baseball. She also enjoys traveling and gaming.
Stephanie Ehlers is the Co-Founder of The Momentum Academy and is the Board Chair. She is the Primary Board contact for Admissions and Fundraising. Stephanie has worked in the non-profit setting since 1993, serving in roles ranging from Executive Director to Health Educator. She has worked extensively as a community volunteer since 1995 and has been an advocate for those without a voice. Her mission hit home in 1999 and became very personal for her after the birth of her first child, who has special needs. Stephanie knows that given the right environment, everyone can be successful.Stephanie is an Honors graduate from The University of Texas Medical Branch in 1993, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Care Administration. She received her Master of Business Administration from Our Lady of the Lake University in 1997. Stephanie and her husband, Richie, live in the Clear Lake area with their 2 children.
Melissa Hodges is the Co-Founder of The Momentum Academy and is the Board Secretary. She is the Primary Board contact for Evaluations and Curriculum. Melissa is a certified Speech-Language Pathologist and specializes in working with children from preschool through high school, as well as having a background working with adult clients. She has been the director of Leaps in Language for 10 years. Previously, Melissa served as the first Speech Therapist at The Joy School in Houston and worked with CCISD. She is known for her commitment to helping her clients achieve success.Melissa graduated from the University of Houston with her Bachelor's and Master's degree in Communication Disorders. She believes in educating the entire family so her clients will have continued success long after they leave her care. She believes each child is a blessing from God with gifts and talents. It is her passion to help them discover their gifts and talents and reach their maximum potential. Melissa lives in the Clear Lake area with her husband, Chad, and their 8 children.
Formerly with the Academy's Advisory Board, Angelina Farella is the newest member of our Board of Directors.
