One team.
A shared calling.

Mrs. Suzie Leigh Philyaw is a dedicated educator with a passion for nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning. Born and raised in Lafayette, Indiana, Suzie embarked on her academic journey at Purdue University, where she pursued her undergraduate studies in Education. It was during this time that Suzie discovered her innate talent for teaching and her unwavering commitment to shaping the future through education. After completing her undergraduate degree, Suzie furthered her academic pursuits by earning a Master's degree in Language Education from Indiana University. Armed with a strong educational foundation and a thirst for knowledge, she embarked on her teaching career, where she has since made a profound impact on the lives of her students.

In the classroom, Suzie is known for her innovative teaching methods, her ability to engage students of all backgrounds, and her dedication to ensuring each student reaches their full potential. She creates a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where students feel empowered to explore, question, and grow both academically and personally. Outside of the classroom, Suzie leads an active and fulfilling life as a wife to Joshua and mother to Judah, Asher, and Adelynn. She can often be found exploring new places and enjoying the outdoors with them. Suzie also enjoys using her organizational skills and creativity to plan events, whether it's chess club, Battle of the Books, or a community gathering.

In her free time, Suzie finds solace and inspiration in nature, often hitting the trails for a rejuvenating hike. Surrounded by the beauty of the great outdoors, she finds clarity and perspective that fuels her passion for teaching and enriches her life as a whole. With her dedication to education, her love for learning, and her zest for life, Suzie Philyaw continues to make a lasting impact on her students, her community, and the world around her. It is her hope that all of these passions and experiences are helpful while serving on the Board for School Alive.

sphilyaw@schoolalive.com

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Bob Fox is a respected leader, entrepreneur, and community builder in Lafayette, Indiana, known for his stewardship of multiple organizations, including Fox Hauling and his leadership of We the People Indiana Revival. With decades of hands-on experience, he has built a reputation not only for excellence in business, but for integrity, reliability, and a commitment to serving others. His leadership reflects a deep understanding that true success is measured not just by growth, but by impact—on people, families, and the broader community. With extensive knowledge in real estate, construction, and development, Bob brings a rare blend of practical wisdom and strategic insight. From managing large-scale projects to navigating the complexities of land use and infrastructure, his expertise has helped shape both physical spaces and long-term opportunities for growth. He sees potential where others see obstacles, and his ability to turn vision into reality has made him a trusted voice in both business and community initiatives. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bob has a deep passion for supporting Christian education and faith-driven endeavors. He believes strongly in investing in the next generation and advancing initiatives that cultivate both excellence and character. His heart for service, combined with his experience and discernment, makes him a valuable addition to the School Alive Board of Directors, where he is committed to helping further the mission of equipping students to live with purpose, faith, and impact.

bfox@schoolalive.com

Mr. Ronald Scott Lehr, a valued member of the Board of Directors at School Alive, exemplifies leadership deeply rooted in faith and service. Raised in Crawfordsville, IN, and moving to Lafayette in 1999, Scott's journey is one of profound commitment to his community and Christian ministry. As the loving father of three boys—Dustin, Derrick, and JT—and grandfather to a grandson and two beautiful granddaughters, his life is a testament to the strength and love cultivated within a family that cherished serving others. This dedication was shared with his late wife, LeeAnne, whose memory continues to inspire his path. The loss of LeeAnne to colon cancer in 2017 has been a profound chapter in his journey, reflecting his strength and faith through life's trials. Scott's professional ventures, notably founding Great Skates Fun Center in 1999, alongside his leadership roles, such as serving as Director and President of The Roller Skating International, have honed his ability to inspire and guide in both business and community settings.

Scott's spiritual journey, marked by his rebirth in faith at the age of 20, led him and LeeAnne to embrace roles as youth pastors and later, pastors, leaving a lasting impact on many through their ministry. His commitment to serving is further reflected in his significant contributions to the broader Christian community, including his influential roles on the Board of Directors for Camp Destiny and the International Ministerial Association, where he was Chairman for six years and is currently the Vice Chairman. This organization is noteworthy not only for its leadership in ministry but also as the licensing agency for churches and ministers, including Church Alive. Additionally, Scott's involvement as a founding member of the Professional Mentors pilot program for the Lafayette School Corporation underscores his passion for mentorship and community development. His dedication as a Board member and former Director of Finances for the Grace & Mercy Food Pantry, the largest in Montgomery County, emphasizes his commitment to fulfilling both physical and spiritual needs within his community.

At School Alive, Scott's enthusiasm for leading others to Christ and his vision for an education grounded in biblical principles are infectious. His wealth of experience in leadership, unwavering faith, and personal journey of resilience and service contribute significantly to the mission of School Alive. His diverse roles, from opening Great Skates Fun Center to serving on various boards, illustrate a life dedicated to enriching his community and fostering environments where individuals are encouraged to discover their God-given purposes. Scott’s dedication to stewardship and his comprehensive background provide a solid foundation for guiding School Alive towards its goals, ensuring the school remains a beacon of authentic Christian education in an ever-changing world.

slehr@schoolalive.com

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Mr. Harold (Hal) Raymen Pitts’ story begins in his hometown of Anderson, Indiana. He attended Madison Heights High School, class of 1976 before continuing his education at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, class of 1981, majoring in Public Relations and Theater. Hal was active in many organizations in high school including Youth for Christ, Band, Young Republicans, Chess Club, and was co-editor his senior year of the school anthology “The Buccaneer”. At Ball State Hal was a member of Phi Sigma Epsilon fraternity, president of the honor’s dorm Swinford Hall his senior year, and active in many plays and singing competitions. After college Hal was involved with theater groups in Anderson and did stand-up comedy for an event for charity with a theater group in Lafayette.

Hal started forging his retail knowledge while embarking on his scholastic journey. What started as a means to fund education turned into a passion and career. Hal started his first job on his 16th birthday at the local Paul Harris Clothing Store, where he continued to work for the next ten years. He also took the opportunity during summer breaks to hone skill in carpet installation, tile setting, and home construction, at his father’s request to have a trade to fall back on, if retail was not his true passion. At 18, Hal started working at Pay Less Super Markets, juggling both jobs while attending school. This is where Hal really blossomed his retail career and knowledge. He remained at Pay Less for the next 24 years, working his way up from part time to a management position. Hal’s time at Pay Less helped develop the skills needed to be a well-rounded leader, which led to the opportunity to leave Anderson and help open a new store for the company in Lafayette in 1983. In 2000 Wal Mart recruited Hal to assist in the opening of the first supercenter in the Lafayette area. Wal Mart utilized Hal’s extensive knowledge in the supermarket industry to assist in opening the grocery side as well as the development of the team. Hal continued to build his management expertise for the next nine years at Wal Mart until he felt the need for a change. Hal served in at the Lafayette T.J. Maxx in a management for three years until he moved to his current role of Store Manager at Tractor Supply in 2013.

Hal brings his love for The Lord as well as 50 years of retail experience to assist with the business side of School Alive. His diverse retail background will aid him as he works to ensure the success both spiritually and financially of this endeavor. Hal has enjoyed wedded bliss to Deb (Beeler) Pitts for over 35 years. They have one daughter, Hillary, who is married to Chris Mueller and are the parents of 3 rambunctious boys. Hal and Deb enjoy spending time (spoiling) the grandkids, traveling, looking for great finds in flea markets and antique stores, and helping in different areas of the church. Hal is on the board for the Men’s Ministry and looks forward to helping the church grow and spread The Word.

hpitts@schoolalive.com

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Born in Clinton, Indiana in 1948, Ms. Connie Lou Basham exemplifies perseverance, hard work, and a deep commitment to community service. Growing up in Lafayette, where her father worked in the mailroom at the Journal and Courier, she spent her formative years learning the value of hard work. The family eventually settled in Lafayette, where Connie began babysitting at 12 and working for a local store at 16, becoming the youngest employee at L.S. Ayres. She thrived in academics and extracurriculars, participating in school orchestras, choirs, and student government, laying the foundation for her lifelong passion for leadership and community involvement. Connie pursued further education at Purdue University, which she joined after excelling in high school as a writer, performer, and student leader. Her experiences in the Brownie Scouts and Girl Scouts, and her relationship with her sixth-grade teacher, Jack Otten, who inspired her to embrace every challenge, continued to shape her dedication to service.

In public service, Connie held significant roles, including serving two terms on the Tippecanoe County Council, where she advocated for youth and economic development. She was recognized for her leadership and policy work, having served as Director of the Indiana Association of County Councils and President of the Association for 2004. Her dedication to education led her to establish scholarships aimed at supporting hardworking students and those in need of financial assistance. Connie has consistently championed causes aligned with her Christian values, notably in her work with Indiana Right to Life, where she served as Vice-Chairperson and reorganized local chapters to better support young parents. She played a vital role in developing tax abatement guidelines and advocating for the Tippecanoe Youth Center, showcasing her drive for positive change.

Connie is also known for her warmth and generosity, reflected in her relationships with her extended family and community. From mentoring Purdue College Republicans to being a longtime host parent for the Colt Baseball World Series, she has touched many lives. A devoted mother to her daughter Gretchen and a beloved aunt to her late sister's children, Connie's love for family and community runs deep. She was instrumental in managing Basham Rentals with her former husband John, before shifting focus to other endeavors, including building rental cabins in Tennessee. Her enduring faith and dedication to service are evident in her involvement with Church Alive and various community organizations. Now, she continues her journey of service and advocacy on the Board of Directors for School Alive, embodying a life dedicated to building communities grounded in faith and love.

To get in touch, email contact@schoolalive.com.

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