One of the most important characteristics of a leader is vision. Vision is defined as “a picture of the preferred future.” It answers the question, “What do you want things to look like down the road?”

When Kendra Lee arrived at Timothy Christian Schools ten years ago to lead the high school’s business department, she brought with her a bold vision. Having built a highly successful business program at a large suburban public high school, she took a risk—leaving a secure position to join Timothy. It was, as she describes it, both a risk and a remarkable opportunity: the chance to build a top-tier business department within a distinctly Christian educational context.

At the time, the department offered just a handful of classes and was staffed by a single faculty member. Today, it has grown to three faculty members and offers a robust array of business courses that not only equip students with marketable skills, but also ground them in a Biblical worldview.

Under Lee’s leadership, Timothy Christian’s business department has become recognized for its excellence—not only in the local community but increasingly on a national scale.

From the outset, Lee had two cornerstone programs in mind for students: Virtual Enterprises International (VEI) and DECA (formerly Distributive Education Clubs of America). (See accompanying article for more details.) Both initiatives provide students with real-world business experience and opportunities to compete at the highest levels. In fact, Timothy students now regularly compete at national DECA and VEI competitions—an achievement that has become an annual tradition.

Yet the impact goes far beyond awards and accolades. Participation in the business program has skyrocketed. Students gain more than just business acumen—they build confidence, develop leadership and public speaking skills, and learn to collaborate as part of a team.

Next year, 43 students have requested enrollment in VEI, though only 30 spots are available. DECA participation has nearly doubled in the past year alone.

To support this growth, the department continues to expand. Last year, Frank Romano joined the team, bringing his expertise in Computer Applications, Introduction to Business, and Accounting I and II. He also leads the VEI class, with Kendra Lee serving as his mentor.

“God has given the students gifts and talents to be used. It is our job as teachers to lead and inspire them to fulfill their potential and to be leaders in the business community in the future.”

This year, the department welcomed Hope Erickson, who teaches Foundations in Entrepreneurship. Her course prepares students to launch their own businesses and contribute meaningfully to team ventures. Erickson also oversees the Trojan Café—now entirely student-run—offering hands-on entrepreneurial experience.

And the momentum continues. In the upcoming school year, Timothy will launch a Culinary Arts program featuring a fully functioning commercial kitchen. Students will produce baked goods and restaurant-quality meals, managing the operation much like they do the Trojan Café.

The vision? Student-proposed and student-run businesses that flourish right on Timothy’s campus.

Behind the department’s success is a culture of excellence and accountability. Students are expected to show up, give their best, and meet the high standards set by their peers and teachers. That culture starts with Lee, who leads with passion and purpose—rooted firmly in her Christian faith.

“God has given our students gifts and talents to be used,” she says. “It’s our job as teachers to lead and inspire them to fulfill their potential and become leaders in the business world—and beyond.”

Spend five minutes with her VEI or DECA students, and it’s clear the feeling is mutual. They beam with pride as they describe their projects, speak confidently about their business ventures, and reflect on how much they’ve grown—not just academically, but personally. Lee watches them with joy, like a proud parent marveling at her children’s accomplishments.

Students consistently point to Lee’s high expectations and unwavering commitment as the driving force behind their achievements—and they’re grateful.

In addition to her role as head of the Business Department, Kendra Lee also serves as Timothy Christian High School’s Director of Teaching and Learning for grades 7–12. In this role, she collaborates with faculty and administrators to shape course offerings, select the most effective curriculum, and guide its implementation.

Bible teacher and Director of Spiritual Life Johnny Karesh credits Lee’s leadership with helping him thrive as a new teacher. “From developing a teaching philosophy to implementing effective strategies, Kendra has been a tremendous blessing,” he says. “She sets clear expectations and uses tools like unit templates that bring structure and excellence to our courses.”

Kendra Lee is a visionary leader who pours her energy into providing the best learning opportunities for students—both in business and beyond. And while her vision has already transformed Timothy’s business department, the future is still unfolding. In many ways, she’s just getting started.