Class Notes by Decade
1960s | 1970s | 1980s | 1990s | 2000s | 2010s |2020s
1970s
Steve Moore ‘74
Steve Moore retired after 17 years as CEO of the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust and was named CEO emeritus at the beginning of 2023. In the same year, the University of Portland awarded him an honorary doctorate of public service. In 2024, he and his wife, Thanne, welcomed their fourth grandchild, Nora, into the world.
1990s
Bruce Gillespie ’90
Retired from teaching and coaching in Texas public schools, Bruce Gillespie continues in the same roles at Cornerstone Christian Schools (Hagee Ministries) in San Antonio, serving as Assistant Head Coach in football and teaching Senior English. His oldest son recently survived cancer, and both of his sons play football at East Texas Baptist University (ETBU). His daughter plays soccer at CCS and is an all-state choir member.
Shaun Martin ’99
Shaun Martin ’99 was recently named one of this year’s Abilene Business Hall of Fame inductees by Junior Achievement of Abilene. Laureates are recognized and honored for outstanding personal, professional, creative, and intellectual achievements. Hall of Fame inductees receive this distinction for inspiring others through their determination and passion in building a lasting legacy within the community, schools, and organizations they represent and serve.
2000s
Dr. Charles J Baumer ‘05
At the end of 2022, Dr. Baumer earned a doctorate in Forensic Science. He draws on his undergraduate degree to support his work in the detailed and ceremonial aspects of forensic practice. In addition, he is involved in hospice care and the bereavement process, contributing to this vital and meaningful field.
Ashley Titus ’07
Political science alumna, Ashley Titus, successfully defended her dissertation at Texas Christian University on January 27, 2025.
2010s
Yomaira Fontanez ‘14
Yomaira Fontanez has been promoted to Career Readiness Consultant for the Department of the Air Force. In this role, she serves as a career counselor for military members and their families at RAF Mildenhall in the United Kingdom. She also leads classes and workshops to support the military community as they transition to civilian life, navigate the civilian workforce, strengthen relationships, and improve financial readiness. Passionate about her work, she looks forward to continuing to serve and support the military community.
Rev. Brett Banks ’18
Religion and Philosophy alumnus, Rev. Banks, published his first book, Sacred Visions: How You Can Meet Jesus in Your Imagination, which is based on the Gospel readings for Year C in the Lectionary.
Clarissa Walls ’19
After leaving the Navy, Clariss Walls is now attending graduate school at the University of San Diego to pursue a master’s degree in school-based counseling, emphasizing restorative justice. USD is the only university in the world that offers this specific program.
2020s
Juan Ramirez ’21
On February 28, 2025, Juan Ramirez was sworn in as a Police Officer for the City of Edinburg Police Department after completing a rigorous Basic Police Officer Course. He graduated as the honor cadet with a 99.5 GPA. Before joining the police academy, he earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from UTRGV with a 4.0 GPA. He credits McMurry University and the War Hawks football team (#75) for laying the foundation for his academic success and preparing him for his law enforcement career. Ala Cumba!
Baylee Kindrick ’23
Baylee Kindrick married her college sweetheart, Thomas Couch, on Cinco de Mayo and concluded the week by graduating with her master’s degree.
Luke Mendez ’24
Luke Mendez, a Christian Ministry major, completed his honors thesis under the supervision of Dr. Waters, Stewart, and Schneller and graduated with honors. He is discerning a call to the Episcopal priesthood and will begin seminary in the fall.
Stephanie White ‘24
Graduating in May 2024 and having passed all certification tests, Stephanie White is now a full-time 1st and 2nd-grade self-contained teacher at Kenley School in Abilene. Her daughter is a McMurry student, double majoring in History, English, and Writing, and is expected to graduate in December 2025.
