Rev. Dr. Michael Anthony Foster, a 2024 Recipient of the President of the United States’ Lifetime Achievement Award for his stellar leadership and commitment to community service, is a distinguished minister, educator, and community leader whose influence extends beyond pulpits, classrooms, and boardrooms. A proud native of Brundidge, Alabama, Dr. Foster began his journey of service and leadership with the Pike County School System before entering the field of Criminal Justice, graduating from the esteemed Alabama Advanced Criminal Justice Academy in Montgomery, Alabama.
His academic prowess reflects a deep commitment to both scholarship and service. Dr. Foster earned an Associate of Science with a concentration in Personnel Administration from Enterprise State Community College. He later graduated from Troy University with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, with an emphasis on Public Administration, and subsequently earned a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration, which he received with academic honors. His expertise led to a faculty appointment at Troy University, where he served as a professor in the Department of Criminal Justice.
Answering God’s call to ministry, Dr. Foster deepened his theological training at the University of Mobile’s School of Theology and Religion, where he earned a Master’s degree in Theology with a concentration in Biblical Studies, receiving the highest academic distinction award. He culminated his academic journey with a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Leadership from Andersonville Theological Seminary. His doctoral dissertation presented a groundbreaking comparative analysis of pastoral-led versus committee-led leadership and governance models to enhance congregational health within the local Baptist District Association of metropolitan Tuscaloosa, Alabama. His significant research has culminated in a book scheduled for release in 2027.
Dr. Foster is a staunch advocate for leadership development and social awareness. He is the president of the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, a former District Moderator and Congress President. He is also the recipient of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award, the Shelton State Community College Leadership Award, and serves on several boards, including the Reenter & Reclaim Prison Reform and the Unity Foundation Board of Trustees. Additionally, he is a member of the Bloody Tuesday Civil Rights Committee, the Southern Poverty Law Center, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He is also a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.
A sought-after voice in Christian education, Dr. Foster teaches pastors, ministers, laypeople, and leaders throughout the state and serves on the Moderator’s Education Cabinet. A former President of the Congress of Christian Education, he is also a respected instructor in the Alabama State Congress of Christian Education (ASCCE). In addition to his ecclesiastical commitments, he is deeply involved in community service, particularly through his mentorship with the Boys 2 Men Mentoring Program and his compassionate counseling work with Mothers Who Lost Sons to Gun Violence.
Dr. Foster is joyfully married to the love of his life, the former Beverly D. Kidd. They are now on the proud journey of being grandparents. As a passionate Bible teacher and dynamic gospel preacher, he has inspired thousands across the nation with his unique ability to connect with the young, while encouraging the elderly, and leading everyone to a deeper walk with Christ.
Lady Beverly Foster, a native of Atmore, Alabama, is a respected leader whose life’s work bridges faith, education, and purpose-driven service. She faithfully serves alongside her husband, Pastor Dr. Michael A. Foster, as First Lady of Highpoint Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, where she is known for her heart for ministry and her commitment to empowering others through spiritual development and practical leadership.
In addition to her role at the church, Lady Foster is deeply involved in women’s ministry and mentoring young women, helping them cultivate leadership skills and grow in their faith. She is a passionate advocate for community service and actively participates in initiatives that uplift and support her local community. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, she embodies the values of service, sisterhood, and scholarship, working to make a positive impact both within her sorority and in the broader community.
A mentor, motivator, and advocate for student success, Lady Foster is passionate about helping individuals discover their purpose, strengthen their faith, and lead with integrity. She brings over 20 years of higher education experience to her role as the Associate Dean of Enrollment Management at Shelton State Community College. She holds an Associate’s degree in Business Administration, a Bachelor’s in Business Management, and a Master’s in Business Ethics and Leadership. She is also presently pursuing her Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership.
Lady Foster is a devoted wife and the proud mother of four—Marcus, Gabrielle, Katelyn, and Paris. Her life’s mission is to honor God by using every opportunity to influence and inspire others through ministry, education, and transformational leadership.
