Katy Christian Ministries has named a new leadership team.

The Katy Christian Ministries Board of Directors announced late on May 19 that Kyle

Strickland will take the helm as its new executive director to lead the

organization through its next phase of major growth. Strickland steps into this role at a pivotal

moment as KCM actively pushes forward with historic expansion milestones.

He will oversee and champion the continuation of these vital initiatives, which include

doubling the size of the Katy Food Center, significantly expanding the Crisis Center

services, and deepening essential social services programs to support the growing

community.


A proven leader in faith-based service, Strickland most recently served as a pastor and senior

staff leader at First Colony Church of Christ in Sugar Land, driving organizational

stewardship and vision for one of the region’s largest congregations. His deep impact

also spans across state lines; in Memphis, Tennessee, Strickland successfully launched and

spearheaded a major regional social services initiative, breaking through tough civic

and economic barriers to expand crucial support networks alongside community

partners.


Strickland’s heart for people extends directly into the classroom. For more than two decades,

he has championed the next generation as an educator at Arkansas State University,

Houston City College, and Houston Christian University. He holds degrees from Harding

University and Arkansas State University.


“The entire KCM family is energized for this next chapter,” a KCM spokesperson said in the announcement. ”Kyle is ready to hit the ground running, collaborating closely with our churches, our business partners, and our incredible team of staff and volunteers to bring these

expansion plans to fruition and deeply embed himself in the vibrant Katy community.”


On May 18 the organization also announced the appointment of Heather

Peterson, MBA as its new director of development and strategic partnerships.

Peterson joins KCM with over 15 years of experience spanning development, sales,

marketing, and relationship building. A familiar face in the community, she has

spent six years as the fundraising chair and volunteer for Katy Taste Fest and has

served as an Ambassador for the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce. Her professional

background includes national business development leadership in healthcare and

nearly a decade of financial stewardship as an accountant for the Memorial Hermann

Hospital System. She holds a Master of Business Administration in marketing from the

University of St. Thomas and a Bachelor of Science in economics and business from Texas

A&M University.


In her new role, Peterson will oversee KCM’s strategic fundraising and revenue

generation initiatives, focusing on four primary areas of growth:

· Major Gifts: Managing an extensive portfolio of major donors to build lasting

philanthropic legacies.

· Corporate partnerships: Launching KCM’s first-ever Corporate Giving Program

to secure sponsorships for its food center, social services, and crisis programs.

· Church re-engagement: Serving as the primary liaison to local congregations to

renew relationships and share our impact reports.

· Revenue synergy: Working with KCM’s thrift store team to connect with highvolume shoppers for mission donations and corporate clothing drives.


"I am thrilled to join Katy Christian Ministries," Peterson said. "I look forward to

working alongside the dedicated volunteers and staff to strengthen the Katy community

through light, hope, and love."