Derek Kester, Executive Director
Derek holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Youth & Family Ministry and a Master’s Degree in Family Life Education, both from Lubbock Christian University. He has over fifteen years experience in Christian ministry and social services, and has served in a variety of para-church and community-based
settings. Derek joined the Compassion team in October 2020 and brings a wealth of insight and expertise to his role as our Executive Director. He
is Jesus' servant, Stephanie's husband, and Charleton, Faith & Kingston's dad.
Shannon Reel, Director of Logistics
Shannon oversees all purchasing, maintenance and distribution of goods. She is a former executive assistant and store manager for Dale Earhardt, and manager for Lane Bryant clothing stores. She has experience coaching restaurants and other business owners in increasing efficiency and profit, and she helped to successfully launch Compassion’s Resale Store in 2018.
Joann Pierson, Women’s Shelter Manager
Joann hold’s an Associate’s Degree in psychology and was a member of the Psychology Honor Society Psi Beta, and Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Joann worked with clinically diagnosed troubled teenagers at the Corsicana State Home for nearly five years, taught head start, and worked with special needs adults; she volunteered with the House of Refuge before moving to the full time position eleven years ago.
Stephanie Dickey, Community Specialist I
Stephanie has worked in social services for over 14 years. Previous to joining the team at Compassion in 2022 she worked with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission where she learned first hand about serving those in need. She has been a resident of Corsicana and Navarro County for over 40 years. Stephanie has a passion for her family, friends and for helping others.
Tamia Terry, Community Specialist II
Tamia is a native of Corsicana, Texas, who is passionate about helping others in her community. Tamia holds an Associates degree from Navarro College in Liberal Arts and is currently studying Family Studies at Texas Woman's University. Tamia also enjoys volunteering with her daughter's soccer team and being a part of SPARK at TWU. Tamia started her experience in the nonprofit community, working for VOICE Inc, helping at-risk students in Navarro County. She is excited to be joining the team and providing services to those in need.