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Our Board of Directors

Dan Hellige

Director / CEO / President
Dan Hellige

Dan Hellige joined Legacy Coalition as president and CEO starting October 1st, 2026. His professional career took him down several leadership paths before Legacy Coalition, including retail, real estate, entrepreneurship, and working for a large international corporation. Dan spent twenty-four years providing strategic leadership at Caterpillar where he led global teams in brand management, strategy development, and global business development for key accounts and advanced technologies. Dan is known for providing leadership in growing new strategic opportunities.

After retiring from Caterpillar, Dan formed a coaching partnership that focused on helping others through their transition into the post-career era of life. He believes strongly that it is important to stay engaged with one’s purpose in the next chapter. Though his roles have varied, he has been able to leverage one of his core principles – staying focused on the success of both the customer and the organization. Dan graduated from the University of Illinois Springfield with a bachelor’s in business administration.

Dan gave his life to Christ when he was 14 years old as a freshman in high school. Young Life was the tool that God used to get to his heart. Since then, he has served in a variety of volunteer ministry roles including youth ministries, marriage and family ministries, and board leadership for Peoria Christian School, the Christian Center and other Christian ministries. He is currently an elder at Northwoods Community Church.

Dan and his wife Janet have been married for 39 years and are natives of Peoria, Illinois. They have five children, three bonus kids through marriage and seven grandchildren. They are lifelong learners who are continuing to grow as intentional Christian grandparents. They are deeply involved with Northwoods Community Church, the Peoria area community, and they enjoy opening their home to friends, both old and new.

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Larry Fowler

Founder
Larry Fowler

Larry Fowler serves as Founder of Legacy Coalition, providing visionary leadership to a growing movement dedicated to equipping grandparents to pass on a lasting spiritual legacy. His pioneering vision for a national grandparenting ministry brought together respected leaders in children’s, youth, and family ministry to launch what has become an influential movement within the Church.

With more than 40 years of ministry experience, Larry has served as a youth pastor, missionary with Awana, and Executive Director of Training, equipping children’s ministry leaders from churches across the United States. Throughout his career, his focus has remained on helping the Church disciple the next generation.

Larry has also trained children’s ministry leaders in 47 countries, giving him a global perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing families and churches today. An accomplished author, he has written several books on children’s and family ministry, offering practical and biblical guidance to leaders and families alike.

Known for his relational leadership style and clear sense of mission, Larry remains deeply involved in the work of Legacy Coalition. Through his involvement, the organization continues to grow as a trusted voice that inspires grandparents to invest intentionally in the spiritual lives of their grandchildren.

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Scott Schoolmeesters

Director / Chairman
Scott Schoolmeesters

Scott Schoolmeesters serves as Chairman of the Board for Legacy Coalition, providing steady leadership, governance, and strategic oversight to advance the organization’s mission of equipping grandparents to leave a lasting spiritual legacy.

With a diverse background spanning education, business, and church leadership, Scott brings a well-rounded perspective to his role. He was a certified secondary education teacher and holds dual bachelor’s degrees in History and Bible & Theology, along with graduate work in Education.

Professionally, Scott has more than 20 years of experience in commercial and multifamily property management, including 14 years as an operations manager overseeing a $25 million portfolio and leading teams of more than 20. In addition, he has owned and operated a consulting business since 2002, offering strategic insight and operational guidance across various organizations.

Scott has also been actively involved in church leadership for many years, serving on multiple church boards and playing a key role in developing and leading a youth program. His passion for discipleship and strengthening the next generation aligns closely with the heart of Legacy Coalition’s mission.

Scott and his wife Lynn attended the first Legacy Coalition Summit in 2016. They were deeply impacted by the message, so much so that he engaged in Legacy Coalition as a founding board member.

As Chairman, Scott brings thoughtful leadership, organizational expertise, and a servant- minded approach to the board. His commitment to faith, family, and effective leadership continues to help guide Legacy Coalition in its ongoing growth and impact.

Scott and Lynn have been married 47 years. They have three married children, five grand- children, and reside in MN.

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Steve Bradford

Director / Vice Chairman / Secretary of the Board
Steve Bradford

Steven Bradford serves as Vice Chairman and Secretary of the Board for Legacy Coalition, where he plays a key role in the organization’s governance and day-to-day leadership. Bringing a unique blend of corporate, nonprofit, and ministry experience, he is deeply committed to advancing Legacy Coalition’s mission of equipping grandparents to influence the next generation with faith and purpose.

Steve’s professional career spans nearly three decades in the pharmaceutical industry, where he served from 1977 to 2006 in a wide range of leadership roles across Sales, Marketing, Research and Development, and Operations. His work extended across both U.S. and international markets, providing him with a broad strategic perspective and operational expertise.

In 2006, he transitioned into ministry leadership, joining Prison Fellowship and later contributing to BreakPoint and the Colson Center for Christian Worldview. His work in these organizations reflects a deep commitment to faith-based engagement and cultural impact. In 2016, Steve founded Three Cords Strong LLC, a consulting firm focused on organizational strategy and leadership. In addition to his professional endeavors, he dedicates 20 to 25 hours each week to Legacy Coalition, actively supporting its administrative functions and strategic direction. Steve’s steady leadership, depth of experience, and servant- minded approach make him an invaluable asset to the board and the broader mission of the organization.

Steve and his wife Tina have been married 49 years, have three children and eight grandchildren. He and Tina reside in Salisbury, Maryland.

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Valerie Bell

Director
Valerie Bell

Valerie Bell serves as a Director on the Board of Legacy Coalition, bringing decades of global ministry leadership, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to generational discipleship. With 23 years of experience serving on ministry boards, she offers both seasoned wisdom and a clear vision for strengthening faith across generations.

Valerie is CEO Emerita of Awana Clubs International, where she led a worldwide movement that reaches nearly 11 million children in 140 countries through more than 77,000 church partners. Her leadership has helped shape a lasting vision for engaging children and families in lifelong faith.

A respected author and speaker, Valerie is known for communicating with authenticity, warmth, and clarity. She has authored a total of 13 books focused on spiritual growth, parenting, perseverance, child discipleship, and generational faith. Her most recent book, For Our Children’s Children: How Grandparents Strengthen the Family Chain of Faith for Generations, introduces a groundbreaking vision for the Family Chain of Faith, honestly engaging cultural challenges to belief while offering practical ways Christian grandparents can help faith take root and endure.

Valerie’s previous work includes Faith-Shaped Kids, Real Survivors, An African Awakening, and A Well-Tended Soul. Her writing and speaking reflect a lifetime of ministry experience and a passion for helping individuals and families live out their faith with courage in everyday life.

Whether addressing the needs of today’s children, encouraging grandparents in their spiritual influence, or challenging the Church to invest in future generations, Valerie is a trusted and motivating voice. Her leadership on the Legacy Coalition Board strengthens its mission to inspire and equip grandparents to leave a lasting spiritual legacy.

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Jean Castille

Director
Jean Castille

Jean Castille serves on the Board of Legacy Coalition, bringing a lifetime of ministry experience, discipleship, and a deep passion for helping families build a lasting legacy of faith. Raised in Phenix City, Alabama, Jean came to faith in Christ during her college years, a decision that transformed the course of her life and ministry.

Since marrying her husband, Jeremiah Castille, in 1983, Jean has faithfully served alongside him through mentoring, Bible studies, and caring for individuals and families in need. She is especially passionate about encouraging and discipling women to grow in an authentic and vibrant relationship with Christ. In recognition of her Gospel-centered leadership and impact, she was honored with the 2023 She Leads Alabama Award.

A devoted wife, mother of six, and grandmother of 12, Jean understands the importance of intentionally passing faith from one generation to the next. Through her role on the Board of Legacy Coalition, she brings a relational, ministry-centered perspective that strengthens the organization’s mission to equip grandparents and families to pass on a lasting spiritual legacy. Her life reflects a simple but powerful desire: that Christ would increase as she faithfully serves others.

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Tim Curtis

Director
Tim Curtis

Tim Curtis serves on the Board of Legacy Coalition, bringing decades of pastoral leadership, relational ministry experience, and a deep commitment to helping others grow in an authentic relationship with Christ.

Raised in a Christian home, Tim’s faith became personal during his freshman year at the University of Kentucky through the influence of peers who modeled a genuine walk with Jesus. That experience sparked his call to ministry, which was further shaped during his studies at Harding University and a growing understanding of God’s grace.

Tim has served in college ministry, small group leadership, and for many years as a senior pastor. Now retired, he has also served as a senior adult minister and hospice chaplain, offering spiritual care and encouragement during life’s most meaningful moments.

A defining influence in Tim’s life was his first wife, Belinda, whose faith and courage during her battle with brain cancer deeply impacted those around her. After her passing in 2013, Tim married Sandy in 2015. Together, they enjoy a growing family and the blessing of several grandchildren, strengthening Tim’s personal connection to the mission of Legacy Coalition.

Tim has also served with Brookwood in Georgetown, a God-centered vocational community for adults with special needs. His roles there have included volunteer chaplain, Director of Mission Advancement, and current board member. Through his leadership and service, he brings a pastor’s heart, a servant’s perspective, and a deep passion for generational discipleship and Christ-centered community.

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Dr. Eugene Leong

Director
Dr. Eugene Leong

Dr. Eugene Leong serves on the Finance Committee of the Board of Legacy Coalition, bringing decades of leadership experience in environmental science, public administration, higher education, and international consulting. His expertise in policy, organizational leadership, and strategic oversight provides valuable guidance in supporting the financial stewardship and mission of the organization.

Dr. Leong earned his doctorate in Environmental Sciences and Engineering from University of California, Los Angeles after completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan. Throughout his career, he has served as an environmental scientist and engineer, local government executive, appointed official, university educator, and international consultant. He is also the author of numerous professional reports and publications.

Since retiring, Dr. Leong has remained deeply involved in ministry and global outreach. He spent a decade teaching part-time at Peking University while lecturing at universities across China on public policy, urban planning, and environmental management. More recently, he has led and participated in numerous short-term mission trips to Vietnam.

He is the father of three adult children, and six grandchildren, ages 11-24. He and his wife, Ruth, have been married more than 55 years. The entire family is active in their local churches, serving the Lord. As a former elder, he’s still active in his church leading a Legacy ministry, and teaching Sunday School regularly.

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Steve Mickus

Director
Steve Mickus

Steve Mickus joined Legacy Coalition’s Board in 2026 as its newest member, bringing decades of executive leadership, governance, and ministry-minded service.

With more than 35 years of healthcare administration experience, Steve served as a senior executive within major health systems, overseeing 32,000 employees across 38 facilities. Throughout his career, particularly in large inner-city hospitals, he pursued the mission of extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ through compassionate care, with a special focus on underserved communities.

Steve has also served in numerous community and leadership roles, including board chairman for local churches, trustee positions with Chambers of Commerce, and leadership within community foundations. His commitment to service includes active support of nonprofit organizations serving vulnerable populations, including homeless shelters and homes for displaced single mothers.

He earned a Bachelor of Science from Pennsylvania State University, a Master of Healthcare Administration from George Washington University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Financial Management from Nazareth College. Steve also achieved Fellowship status in the American College of Healthcare Executives and served as a curriculum instructor.

Steve and his late wife of 46 years, Gwyneth, raised three children and are blessed with 11 grandchildren. He resides in Middleville, Michigan, near Grand Rapids.

Through his leadership, service, and faith, Steve brings a deep commitment to compassionate care, community impact, and faithful organizational stewardship.

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Lori Seed

Director
Lori Seed

Lori Seed serves on the Development Committee of the Legacy Coalition Board, bringing decades of hands-on ministry experience, leadership development, and a deep passion for equipping families in their faith journey. Her work reflects a strong commitment to strengthening the Church through intentional discipleship across generations.

Lori is a pastor’s wife and ministry leader at New Song Church in Oceanside, California, where she developed and led the children’s ministry for 23 years. Today, she continues to expand her impact by leading both the grandparenting ministry and a discipleship class for women, addressing the desire for growth and spiritual maturity within the church and community.

In addition to her local church leadership, Lori serves as managing editor of PastorMentor, a resource dedicated to equipping pastors and church leaders, and as founder of Grams and Pops, a platform designed to inspire and educate Christian grandparents. Her work consistently focuses on empowering others with practical tools and encouragement for ministry and family life.

She is pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Discipleship at the Talbot School of Theology at Biola University in order to understand how to inspire grandparents to keep growing in Christ and to equip them to help their grandchildren love and follow Jesus.

Lori and her husband, Hal, are blessed with two married children and eight grandchildren, all living nearby—an experience that deeply connects her to the mission of Legacy Coalition.

Through her role on the Development Committee, she contributes relational insight, creative vision, and a heart for generosity to help expand the organization’s reach and impact.

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Deby Ammons

Assistant Secretary
Deby Ammons

Deby Ammons serves as Assistant Secretary on the Board of Legacy Coalition, bringing a lifetime of ministry experience, organizational leadership, and a deep commitment to discipleship rooted in her faith in Christ.

Raised in a pastor’s family in Abilene, Texas, Deby trusted Christ at the age of seven and developed an early passion for helping others know Him. She studied at Louisiana Baptist University and Tennessee Temple University, preparing for a lifetime of ministry alongside her husband, Dennis, with whom she faithfully served for more than 50 years.

Throughout her ministry journey, Deby has served in many leadership roles, including Awana Commander, Youth Director, Music Team Coordinator, Church Secretary, Ladies Ministry Coordinator, and Children’s Church teacher. She also taught music for K–8 students at Westminster Christian School, directing concerts and stage productions while investing in the lives of young people.

Deby’s ministry impact expanded through 21 years with Awana, where she served as executive assistant to two presidents/CEOs, Board Administrator, and travel companion to founders Art and Winnie Rorheim. During that time, she worked closely with many influential ministry leaders, including Larry Fowler and Valerie Bell.

Through her role with Legacy Coalition, Deby brings administrative excellence, ministry wisdom, and a servant’s heart as she helps support leaders, strengthen ministries, and encourage spiritual growth across generations.

Deby is the mother of two children, two bonus children by marriage­ —all serving in ministry roles—and 3 granddaughters.

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