Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Evans.
Hi Michael, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I moved to the DFW area in 1984 in order to attend UTArlington. I received my BA in Political Science with aspirations to attend Law School. Providence had something to say about that when I was called to enter the ministry and I matriculated into TCU’s Brite Divinity School and obtained my Master of Divinity. I was also a newlywed. I married my high school sweetheart and 34 years later, we have two adult sons, a lovely daughter-in-law and a beautiful granddaughter. I became the Pastor of the Bethlehem Baptist Church located in Mansfield, Texas in 1991.
I was also commissioned into the U.S. Navy that same year and became a Reserve Chaplain. While was moving on, I completed my doctoral studies at Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary. Lisa (my wife) and I fell in love with Mansfield and have been blessed to serve in this area and this city for more than 30 years. As we became more involved in the day-to-day happenings in our community, I felt the need to serve at another level, so I ran for the Mansfield Independent School District Board of Trustees. Fortunately, I lost; losing was actually the best thing to happen to me because it taught me to never take anything for granted in the political arena. My opponent was a dear lady by the name of Beth Light, who is now a good friend to me and my family. I won a place on the board after my second try and the man I ran against, James Rudnicki, is also a good friend of mind and his mom is like another mother to me. I have learned how to treasure good relationships, relationship that are often forged through competition. Now I am the Mayor and I am honored to serve. I became the Mayor after serving for almost 15 years in public service as an elected official. I spent 31/2 years as a Board Trustee for Tarrant County College and a short stint as a Regent for Baylor University. I am where I am because of the hard work of people who have gone before me and paved the way to my opportunities. My parents and foreparents lent me their backs for my journey and I owe the same favor to those coming behind me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been a smooth road. The road to success is littered with failures and mistakes. I have learned that mistakes make us better and failures make us stronger. We also gain many friends and enemies along the way, both are needed to shape a person’s character. I have learned to listen to both negative and positive criticism along the way because both with help to formulate a spirit of excellence that books just could not teach me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I have had the opportunity to serve with Bethlehem in this community for more than 30 years and we have been successful by way of establishing partnerships. I learned years ago that one group does not need to reinvent the wheel when a particular charitable effort or service is already being offered. Bethlehem members, staff and volunteers have learned that more good things happen when people work together. Therefore, we understand that if a church or non-profit group has a clothing ministry, we need not form that same ministry, we simply help them. The reverse happens in regard to our efforts as well; community partners join us in our efforts and the people in need benefit the most.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
When looking for a mentor, look for a person who has experienced life’s challenges. Look for a person who bares the scars of sacrifice, failure and defeat. Allow those persons or that person to help you navigate around the land mines of life. I have learned that peers can be good friends, even good accountability partners, but seasoned persons are better guides.
Contact Info:
- Email: bbcmansfield.org
- Facebook: Bethlehemmansfield
- Youtube: Bethlehemmansfield
