Stephen Deal

As a transfer student studying fmyorestry at Stephen F. Austin, I connected with Chi Alpha, a community of Christian students that supported me emotionally and spiritually throughout my undergraduate career. These experiences led me to reconsider my goals and purpose. Since graduating, I have worked to build similar communities on other campuses reaching students and empowering their faith in Jesus Christ. My life mission is to encourage college students to discover and excel in their God given strengths and empower them to leverage these strengths to transform their communities spiritually, academically, and socially.

In addition to developing these communities on campuses, we network with local churches; helping them to reach and disciple young adults in their community. First, by helping pastors identify and equip individuals in their churches with a heart engage and serve young adults. In addition, we provide resources to prepare teens for their transition to college and adulthood. Finally, we partner with local churches to create opportunities for them to engage community colleges within their sphere of influence.

Jane Deal

I grew up in Portland, Oregon where I came to Christ in high school because of two Christian friends who refused to stop inviting me to church. After graduating high school, I attended Bethany Bible College in Northern California where I was invited to be part of a team planting a church and Chi Alpha in Boulder, Colorado. After several years, I moved to Arlington to focus on reaching and discipling women international students at the University of Texas at Arlington. In 2018, Stephen and I transitioned from leading the ministry at UT-Arlington to plant Chi Alpha on community colleges, beginning with the Tarrant County College campuses.

In addition to my roles as pastor and mother, I also serve as a life coach; providing people with tools to discover untapped potential, identify creative solutions, and establish personal motivation. Beyond ministry, I am working on a children's book to introduce kids and parents to the blessings and challenges of sharing life with people with disabilities. I also enjoy expressing my creativity through sewing and crocheting.