Over the course of a remarkable career which began in 2002, Bryan Mize has left an indelible mark on the Methodist Children’s Home community, embodying compassion and unwavering commitment. In his roles as director of public relations (PR), vice president for quality improvement, vice president for strategic initiatives, and now as strategic initiatives specialist, Mize’s story is a testament to his deep-rooted appreciation and connection to the mission of MCH. Mize transitioned into the part-time role as strategic initiatives specialist on July 1 where he assists the president and executive team on selected projects based on his experience and expertise.
Mize started his educational pursuits at Texas Christian University, completing his bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1986 and earning a master’s degree in liberal arts in 1988. He earned another master’s in organizational development from Abilene Christian University in 2020, an example of his pledge to lifelong learning.
Much of Mize’s journey is defined by education and ministry. His professional career began in 1988 when he became PR director at Howard Payne University (HPU) in Brownwood, Texas. It was during this time he met his wife, Kristi, who was a graduate assistant coach for women’s athletics. He and Kristi married in 1990 and their family grew with the birth of their son, Brandon six years later.
Mize’s path eventually led him to MCH, a place that merged his communications expertise with his passion for serving a mission close to his heart.
“At the end of my interview, my wife and son picked me up from the Waco campus,” Mize said. “I remember Dr. (Jack Kyle) Daniels, MCH president from 1978-2003, got down on one knee and was talking to Brandon about his trip to the zoo. That to me, as much as anything, affirmed this would be a great place for me to serve.”
Throughout his tenure at MCH, Mize spearheaded numerous projects that left a lasting impact on the organization. As director of PR, he led the development of the Visitors Center in the Perkins Heritage Home where displays show the history of the ministry and highlight current programs and services. Mize said the Visitors Center laid the groundwork for the creation of the Legacy of Hope book as he and his staff collected and organized archives of historical information essential to his research.
“The book was my opportunity to make a lasting impact by continuing to share our story with supporters,” said Mize. “The longer I’m at MCH, the more I appreciate the history and past decisions that influence our work today. It helps me understand how what we do today will affect others years from now.”
In addition to these strategic projects, Mize always found opportunities to encourage children, youth and families. He remembers asking Bobby Gilliam, MCH president from 2003-2010, if he could take time off from his job to teach a photography class to support MCH summer programming.
“I’ll never forget his response when he said, ‘Bryan, you’re not taking off work, it’s your job – it’s all of our jobs – to support the childcare program,’” he reflected. “That influenced my perspective of how every employee has a role in supporting the mission regardless of where they work.”
Mize is grateful for the opportunity Tim Brown, MCH president from 2010-2019, gave him to join the executive team in 2014 as a vice president. In this role, Mize oversaw the Training, Human Resources, Public Relations, Quality Improvement, and Employee Communication and Engagement areas of the agency. He provided leadership during five strategic planning processes and directed the organization through the reaccreditation process with the Council on Accreditation (COA) in 2018 and 2022.
Leading through various phases of planning and accreditation, Mize exemplified his attention to detail, care and dedication to MCH. He was recognized for these efforts in 2010 when he was awarded the Distinguished Staff Award which is presented annually by the MCH Alumni Association.
Throughout his MCH journey, Mize’s faith has been a cornerstone, guiding his decisions and shaping his interactions with others. His unique connection to Trey Oakley, current president and CEO of MCH, was not only built on experiences at Howard Payne University, Oakley’s alma mater, but also on a commitment to their faith. Mize emphasized their bond is rooted in their love for the Lord and shared devotion to advancing the MCH mission.
“Bryan’s reliable and detailed work has positively impacted many during his time at MCH,” Oakley said. “He conducts himself and carries out his responsibilities at the highest level, regardless of who receives the credit. I am a better employee, leader and person because of my service with Bryan.”
One of the most remarkable aspects of Mize’s career has been his ability to build meaningful relationships. Teaching in children’s ministry at his church and extending into his roles at MCH, his desire to invest in others has been evident.
“Teaching children helped me understand the importance and value of investing in others,” Mize stated. “Of all the opportunities I’ve been given that I didn’t deserve, the most fulfilling part of my career are the relationships I’ve been able to build. To know God has been able to use me to support and encourage others brings value to my work.”
As Mize transitions into his new role as the agency’s strategic initiatives specialist, he remains excited about the future of MCH.
“I look forward to finding ways to support the Imagine 2028 strategic plan and seeing the continued growth of the organization guided by our current leadership team,” Mize said. “It’s been an absolute privilege to be a part of the history and timeline of MCH. I look forward to finding new ways to serve and support my community, church and MCH peers in this next phase.”
Carrie Anderson says
Bryan, I don’t know if you will see this, but you come to my mind often. Working with and for you early in my career affected the entire trajectory of my life. I cannot thank you enough for taking a risk on me. The things I learned from you in public relations are still part of my everyday life. The values you hold, your attention to mission, and your care for me as your employee changed the way I view vocation. Thank you. God bless you in your new venture, and always.