The Directors of the Auxiliary Advisory Board (AAB) are given the responsibility for establishment, guidance, and spiritual headship in the operation of the Academy. The AAB is the policy-setting body of the Academy. There is only one official line of authority which will flow from the AAB, through the Chairman or his designate, to the Headmaster who is charged with the responsibility for properly conveying the decisions and actions of the AAB to the staff, faculty, students, and parents as is appropriate. First Baptist Academy AAB Directors shall be active members at First Baptist Church Opelika.
Board Officers 2025-2026
Dr. Rod Herring
Chairperson
Dr. Herring earned his undergraduate degree in Biology at Florida State University, along with his Bachelor's degree in Clinical Nutrition and Doctor of Chiropractic from Life College. He is the owner of a multi-doctor clinic providing healthcare for musculoskeletal injuries and spinal disorders.
Carol Pridgen
Secretary
Mrs. Pridgen graduated from Auburn University with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education and taught first grade at Jeter Primary School (Opelika City Schools) for 20 years. Since retiring, she is a private tutor and homeschool teacher.
Thomas P. Crowley, CPA
Treasurer
Mr. Crowley is an Opelika native and a graduate of both Opelika High School and Auburn University. He has been a deacon at First Baptist Church Opelika since 1976, and has served as the church treasurer. Mr. Crowley has owned and operated his own accounting firm since 1981.
Board of Directors
Kate D. Simmons, Ph.D.
Dr. Kate D. Simmons is a Professor of Special Education with an appointment of Counselor, Leadership, and Special Education in the College of Education at Auburn University at Montgomery. She was appointed to the faculty following five years of teaching in the public school system.
Dr. Simmons has been an active member of First Baptist Church Opelika since 2011 and serves as the Chair of the Ad Hoc Academy Advisory Committee.
Earvin Comer
Mr. Comer is an Opelika native and graduate of Opelika High School. He is a 2014 Auburn University graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Vocal and Instrumental Music Education. He is currently a Choir Director at Opelika High School.
Kevin Batts
Kevin is an Assistant Professor of Management at Point University. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and MBA from Murray State University, and is completing his PhD in Public Policy/Public Administration at Auburn University. He worked in banking and investments prior to working in higher education. He also serves in Christian apologetics.
Ann Hill
Ann Hill graduated from Auburn University in 1977 with a degree in Speech/Language Pathology. She worked in the Jefferson County Schools for around 8 years as a Speech/Language Pathologist. She later received certification in Early Childhood Education at UAB and taught 2nd graders in the Trussville City Schools for the remainder of her career. She has been married to Dennis Hill for 49 years and has two adult children and seven grandchildren. She loves to paint, make pottery, make sourdough bread, work in her flower garden, and spend time with friends and family.
John Stewart
Leigh Whatley