Meet Our Leadership
Say hello to the leadership team at First Baptist Watauga. Got questions? Contact us by clicking here.
Dennis Hester - Senior Pastor
"He must increase, but I must decrease.” - John 3:30Dennis began his ministry as Senior Pastor at First Baptist Watauga in February of 2005 after a successful 13 year pastorate at FBC in May, Texas. In May 2021, He earned a PhD in Pastoral Ministry from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He earned a BA in Practical Theology from Howard Payne University and a MA in Theology from SWBTS. He and Susan have been married since 1987 serving in ministry together as they raised their four daughters. Check out the Pastor's Blog.
Victoria Hurst - Children’s Minster
"I know both how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me." - Phil 4:12-13Victoria became the children's minster at First Baptist Watauga in February 2019 after serving as the interim. She has a BS in Biblical studies with a minor in Family Consumer Sciences from Scarborough College in Fort Worth, Texas.
Mathew Hurst - Worship & Creative Arts Pastor
"His praise shall continually be on my lips..." - Psalm 34:1Mathew and his sister Victoria are from the populous city of Houston, Texas. Mathew started as the Worship Minister back in September of 2018. He is currently a student at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Worship Studies.
Nathan McEndree - Student & Young Adult Pastor
"And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus..." -Hebrews 12:2Nathan began his ministry at First Baptist Watauga in January 2020 and serves as our Student & Young Adult Pastor. He has a Bachelor of Behavioral Science degree in Ministry with a minor in Biblical Languages from Hardin-Simmons University and is currently pursuing his Masters of Divinity at Truett Seminary.
Julie Petty - Administrative Assistant
"Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials," - James 1:2Julie has a background working in many types of organizations, but it is her work for the church, past and present, which includes interacting with and helping both the pastors and the members that she has treasured the most. She has an Associate of Arts degree. She is so blessed by her family which includes her husband, Alan, her son Ross, her daughter Tara and grandson Rowan.
