Our Staff
Rachel Gardiner
Executive Director
Rachel has served as the Director of FP Johnston County since 2019. Prior to joining us, she taught high school English where she served as Teacher Sponsor for the FP club on campus.
She loves speaking and teaching, developing this generation’s leaders, visiting local churches, building the organization to see a legacy after she’s gone, and sharing the Gospel with whoever she meets.
Misty Ranes
She is passionate about the Gospel, full of wisdom, and hard working. She is a mom of 2 and actively involved in her church.
Misty has over 25 years in ministry and is bringing a breath of fresh wind to our mission of reaching students with the Gospel.
Misty has over 25 years in ministry and is bringing a breath of fresh wind to our mission of reaching students with the Gospel.
Operations Director
Mindy Wallace
Mindy and her husband, TJ, have served in various ministry roles for more than 15 years. She is excited to see the mission of First Priority expanded to bring the Hope of Christ to all people.
She is a busy mother of 2 and enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends.
She is a busy mother of 2 and enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends.
Office Manager
Jade Hill
Jade is so excited to be a part of First Priority! She has a degree in Christian Leadership and Church Ministries. She has served both on staff and as a volunteer in local churches in various roles. She has a passion for teaching kids the gospel and giving them a strong foundation for their faith as they grow up!
Her husband Chris is a local Youth and Children’s Pastor and Jade serves alongside him. They have a beautiful daughter Ellarie! Jade loves reading, writing, apologetics, and serving the local church and community!
Elementary Coordinator
Kylie West
Kylie has served in several student ministry roles and has been involved in First Priority since middle school. She is passionate about using her creativity to share the Gospel with students.
She graduated from NC State University with a degree in communication and nonprofit studies. In her free time, she loves to run, read, and do crafts.
She graduated from NC State University with a degree in communication and nonprofit studies. In her free time, she loves to run, read, and do crafts.
Communications Coordinator
Gabe King
Gabe got involved in First Priority with the Student Leadership Team in 2024. He is passionate about First Priority, because of the shares passion for reaching students with the gospel.
He is currently a sophomore in high school and loves to workout.
Ministry Intern
Bella Wylie
Bella got involved with First Priority in 2023 as a Student Leader and then joined the Student Leadership team her senior year.
She loves First Priority because she really looks forward to connecting with students and helping them learn about Jesus. Her favorite hobbies are running, reading, and spending quality time with her close friends
Ministry Intern
Board of Directors
Phil McDuff
Board President
Phil McDuff helped launched First Priority in Johnston County in 2014 and has served as Board President for almost 10 years.
He is passionate about the Gospel, building this ministry to succeed for generations, and the Great Commission. He is a father of 5 whom have all served in First Priority!
Chad Narron
Chad has served on the board for First Priority Johnston County since 2017. He plays a big role in reaching this generation with the hope of Christ through his duties as VP and his generous support.
He is a father of 2 who have both served as leaders in First Priority, and recognizes the opportunity we have to impact this generation with the Gospel.
He is a father of 2 who have both served as leaders in First Priority, and recognizes the opportunity we have to impact this generation with the Gospel.
Vice President
Don Byrd
Don joined the board of First Priority Johnston County in 2024 and is passionate about seeing the Gospel proclaimed.
He was born and raised in Johnston County and attended Johnston County Public Schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. Don and his wife, Megan, enjoy being a part of their local church and seek to impact young people with the hope that is only found in Jesus Christ.
He was born and raised in Johnston County and attended Johnston County Public Schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. Don and his wife, Megan, enjoy being a part of their local church and seek to impact young people with the hope that is only found in Jesus Christ.
Treasurer
Walt Watson
Walt has been a member of our First Priority board for 3 years. He owns his own business and is a father to 4 incredible kids.
He believes in giving students practical tools and leadership skills to impact their campus with the Gospel. His wife, Kristina, serves on our volunteer team and is a huge part of our ministry!
He believes in giving students practical tools and leadership skills to impact their campus with the Gospel. His wife, Kristina, serves on our volunteer team and is a huge part of our ministry!
Board Member
Ardarion Richardson
I have a lovely wife, Shalonda, and four beautiful children. Before joining the board, I was encouraged by the stories of children having the hope and promise of Jesus Christ. I joined the board in 2023 after talking with board members and seeing my son come home week after week, telling me firsthand how he was a part of the ministry, showing love and compassion, and providing guidance that would have a positive, everlasting impact on their lives.
I enjoy spending time with family, various outdoor activities, and serving others. My family and I are grateful to all the staff, volunteers, and donors for their work in this ministry.
Board Member