Board of
Directors

Reverend

Willie Hendrix

Chair, Board of Directors

Reverend Willie Hendrix brings over 30 years of experience as an Operations Maintenance Coordinator with Chevron Phillips Chemical, including international service in Saudi Arabia. In addition to his professional career, he has faithfully served as a preacher in the community for over 22 years and has also served as an assistant pastor, providing spiritual leadership, mentorship, and guidance to those around him. Now retired, Reverend Hendrix continues to pour into his community through volunteer work and servant leadership. With a powerful foundation in operations, faith, and service, he plays a vital role in offering guidance and oversight to support the vision, growth, and direction of Dream Elite Academy.

Bishop Dr.

Frederick Owens Sr.

Vice Chair

Bishop Dr. Frederick Owens Sr. currently serves as Pastor of New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, where he has faithfully led and served the community for many years. He founded New Beginnings Ministries in 1992 and has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to leadership and service. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Theology and a Doctorate in Divinity, reflecting his dedication to education, ministry, and community impact.

Paula Hendrix

Treasurer

Paula Hendrix brings decades of experience in the insurance industry, with a background that includes multiple areas of insurance and real estate. She provides a strong foundation in financial management, organization, and record-keeping. She is highly skilled in computer-based systems and maintaining accurate digital records, with exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail. Her ability to manage and track financial information supports strong, reliable oversight for Dream Elite Academy.

Bridgette Akinrimisi, PMP, SHRM-SCP

HR Advisor/Secretary

With over a decade of experience in human resources operations and development, Bridgette Akinrimisi brings a strong foundation in strategic HR leadership. She holds a Master of Science in Human Resources Management, along with PMP and SHRM-SCP certifications. In her role as P&C Local Delivery Manager at bp, she leads global teams and partners with key stakeholders to deliver efficient, technology-driven HR services that prioritize excellence and employee experience. She is passionate about coaching and empowering individuals to develop their strengths, supporting both personal growth and organizational success.

Shaquetha Brown

Academic Advisor

Shaquetha Brown brings over 10 years in education and currently serves as a teacher within Houston Independent School District, with instruction aligned to the new educational system. She specializes in Reading Language Arts (RLA) and holds a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. She is certified in 4–8 Generalist and 7–12 English. She has served as a Magnet Coordinator and has a strong background in instructional coaching, bringing deep expertise in literacy, curriculum, and student achievement. She has also been recognized for her student achievement and performance in state assessment data.

Crystal Avila

Community Liaison

Crystal is a dedicated healthcare professional serving as a surgical medical assistant based in Texas. Born and raised in Houston, she is a proud Latina of Mexican and Honduran heritage and brings a strong commitment to service, education, community empowerment, and a people centered approach to her work. As a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Crystal is dedicated to scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood, and expanding opportunities within underserved communities. She is known for her ability to connect with people and ideas in ways that create lasting value. She is excited and honored to serve as a board member of Dream Elite Academy. Crystal serves as a Community Liaison, supporting strategic outreach partnerships and the continued development of an institution shaping our next and future generation of leaders.