Delays, Detours, and Dependence

Nathan Baber’s path has been marked by unexpected twists, moments of uncertainty, and steady growth–both personally and professionally. While his journey began in the halls of TeenPact’s programs as a 15-year-old high school student, it has since woven through leadership roles at the University of Texas at Tyler, challenging career turns, and a meaningful position at Chick-fil-A in Texas today.

Nathan recalls the difficult stretch when he was pursuing medical school. “I missed an important email one year,” he shared. “The next year, I made the waitlist but never received an acceptance. Meanwhile, I was working at Chick-fil-A while reapplying to medical school.” It was a period filled with questions about his direction, but also one where the values and skills he developed through TeenPact continued to anchor him.

During that time, Nathan traveled across the country with Chick-fil-A, helping train teams and support new restaurant operators. “I would walk into a team I’d never met and be tasked with helping them solve big problems. Honestly, it felt a lot like what I did as a TeenPact Program Director,” he said. “Those years gave me experience and confidence to lead calmly, communicate clearly, and bring structure to fast-paced environments.”

Today, he leads at a Chick-fil-A in Texas, where he continues to apply those skills daily–mentoring team members, managing operations, and investing in young people.

Early Leadership and Civic Engagement

Nathan’s first experience with TeenPact came as a high school student eager to earn his civics credit. Unlike some students who arrive reluctantly, he was open and ready to engage. His involvement grew as he moved beyond the initial program, eventually stepping into roles as an Intern and Program Director, shaping TeenPact classes and mentoring younger students.

That foundation prepared Nathan well for leadership roles at the University of Texas at Tyler, where he became a Senator in student government. He also was a founder of a Liberty Club and served on a committee that brought together students, faculty, and community members to address important university policies. “It was a real hands-on experience in civic engagement and leadership,” Nathan said. “What I learned at TeenPact about civics and leadership really helped me navigate those roles.”

Growth Through Challenges

Nathan’s public speaking journey reflects the growth he experienced through TeenPact. He remembers his first time at the Political Communication Workshop vividly: “I was nervous, so I waited until the very end to give my speech, but I never got to actually give it. I ended up crying in the bathroom about the experience.” That moment of vulnerability sparked a commitment to growth. “TeenPact was a huge part of developing my public speaking and becoming comfortable in front of people.”

Over time, Nathan realized that TeenPact was more than politics and civics–it was a place for spiritual and personal development. “As I got older in TeenPact, I realized a lot of us, myself included, were going through developmental growth spiritually. The encounters I had there were formative beyond just leadership and politics.”

From TeenPact to Today

Nathan reflects on how his TeenPact experience shaped his desire to help young people make wise choices. “Working as an Intern and Program Director gave me practical leadership experience. Now, in my work at Chick-fil-A, I try to pass that along by helping young people grow and make good decisions.”

Though no longer pursuing medical school, his career path illustrates how detours can lead to meaningful purpose. He credits TeenPact for giving him tools to navigate uncertainty and build confidence. “I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about titles or degrees—it’s about influence and serving others wherever you are.”

His TeenPact journey also shaped his personal life. Nathan married a fellow TeenPact student, Rachael, and together they have one son. They are joyfully expecting their second son in August. Nathan smiles as he reflects, “TeenPact was not just a place where I learned leadership, but a community that became family. We are grateful for the impact it’s had on our lives.”

Equipped to Lead, Ready to Serve

Nathan Baber’s story is a testament to the unpredictable paths life can take—and how foundational experiences like TeenPact can provide the resilience, skills, and faith needed to navigate them. Whether in student government, mentoring young leaders, or guiding teams in the workplace, Nathan’s journey is one of steady growth and dedication to serving others.