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Derek Henson Founder | Lead Consultant
With a deep commitment to helping mission-driven organizations thrive, Derek brings 20 years of experience in strategic planning, sustainability, and organizational church leadership. Having served as a minister, church staff member, and lay leader, Derek has worked across a diverse range of denominations and faith-based organizations nationwide, giving him a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing congregations and nonprofits today.
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Derek holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Valley Forge and a Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry from Brite Divinity School. His professional journey includes roles with Partners for Sacred Places, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, Broadway Baptist Church, First Baptist of Worcester, Arborlawn United Methodist, and St. John's Baptist, allowing him to develop expertise in facilities management, sustainability, community engagement, capital planning, and capital campaign fundraising. He also holds a certificate in non profit management.
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Through Pinnacle Services and its menu of services, Derek provides customized consulting solutions tailored to each congregations unique needs. His approach ensures that faith communities, and other nonprofits, gain clarity, strengthen their foundations, and create sustainable strategies for the future. His theological training and experience across a variety of denominations informs his ability to tailor his approach and outcomes.
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Beyond his work with Pinnacle, Derek is deeply involved in historic preservation, serving on the board of a local preservation nonprofit and residing in western Maryland , where his ancestral roots trace back generations. His passion for helping to create the beloved kingdom, inspires his work, guiding organizations toward long-term success.
John Thomas Partner | Operations Advisor
John Thomas brings a unique blend of legal expertise and ministry experience to his consulting work. He began his career as a licensed local pastor in the United Methodist Church before pursuing law school and becoming a licensed attorney. John practiced at a mid-sized law firm and most recently served as a regulatory compliance consultant for a major financial services firm. This distinctive combination of legal acumen and congregational leadership experience enables him to deliver exceptional consulting services while maintaining deep insight into the specific needs of churches and nonprofit organizations.
John earned his Bachelor of Arts from Texas Christian University, Master of Divinity from Brite Divinity School, and Juris Doctor from Texas A&M School of Law. He is licensed to practice law in Texas.
When not working with Pinnacle clients, John enjoys time with his spouse and son, pursues his passion for golf (albeit poorly), makes it a point to watch every Oscar-nominated film each year, and continues developing his expertise as a Level I Sommelier.
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