Philippians 1:3-4

Banner embarked on his UMHB journey as a college athlete on the golf team and an entrepreneurship major. While golf brought him to UMHB, the Lord knew that was only a vessel for the opportunities about to be put before him. Throughout his time on campus, he learned to lead, but more importantly how to serve. As his college years flew by Banner's heart continued to be shaped and grown by the Lord. Kelsiy's journey at UMHB was full of being stretched and shaped in mentorship and her walk with Christ. Here she also was blessed by leadership opportunities and learning what an unwavering community looked like. Throughout her 3 years at UMHB, her desire to mentor youth grew and she found great joy working with middle schoolers and telling them about Jesus! While Kelsiy and Banner's circles ran very closely together, the Lord's timing was so sweet when they finally met. (Isaiah 60:22) In the fall of 2024, Banner and Kelsiy sat in Family Business class. Those interactions were short, but sweet, as the Lord was building a great foundation to start their relationship Spring 2025. Naturally, Banner took the opportunity to sit next to Kelsiy in both classes they had together that next spring, and since then their friendship has only grown so much more. Starting with coffee at Sly Fox and long walks around campus, together they recognized they could build a future full of joy, laughter, adventure, forgiveness, service, and love. Quickly after that they spent a summer of long distance, while Kelsiy worked Kanakuk and Banner began his internship at NAI Wheelhouse. The next fall was Banner's last semester and they wanted to make the most of it. They went on day trips to Port A and Fredericksburg making intentional time for one another mixed with their love for travel. Banner graduated December of 2025 and moved back to Lubbock. He wasted no time convincing Kelsiy it was the perfect place to start a family. On February 21, 2026 Banner made the drive to surprise Kelsiy with a proposal on Lake Belton. He knew just how much her friends and their community meant to her, and made sure they got to take part in their special day. Now, Banner and Kelsiy are getting married and starting their lives together in Lubbock. Kelsiy will be teaching middle school and Banner is working at NAI Wheelhouse. They are so excited to do life together and grow in faith and love for the Lord at one another's side. They are especially grateful for UMHB and the part it played in bringing them together!