Dara graduated from Saks High School in 1983.  She attended Jacksonville State University where she studied Fine Arts and English.   She has since had several poems, short stories, and children's illustrations published and circulated throughout the Southeast.  Dara has been a member of Hill Crest since 1999 and has been an active participant in the Gospel Choir, Women's Ministry, Nursery worker, Sunday School Teacher, Preteen Volunteer, Preteen Camp Counselor, Drama Ministry, Encourager's, and Missions Trip Berlin 2003 and Greece 2005. Dara has two children, Anna Lee and Reed.

Our goal in the Preteen Department is that of constant direction in the way of the Lord, Jesus Christ.  We hold a strong desire to teach children through the word of God,  Bible study, drills, activities and life examples.  The Preteen Department holds strong leadership with love for these children.  It is our privilege to lead your children through God’s love and his word.