Brandon Cofield is an associate attorney with a Houston law firm and member of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Houston. From deep in the heart of one Texan, he shares his background and thoughts on being a Christian in community leadership. To suggest a Baptist General Convention of Texas-affiliated leader to be featured in this column, or to apply to be featured yourself, click here.
Background
Where did you grow up?
Houston.
How did you come to faith in Christ?
As the son of a pastor, I was surrounded and nurtured by our church family growing up. At age 8, I knew I wanted to take my relationship with Christ to the next level. That summer, I was baptized, and I have been on my journey ever since.
Where were you educated, and what degrees did you receive?
• University of Minnesota, 2012, Bachelor of Science in nutrition sciences.
• University of Kentucky, 2015, Master of Public Health.
• Texas A&M University School of Law, 2020, Doctor of Jurisprudence.
About community life
What is your sense of calling to be a Christian engaged in the community?
I believe as Christians we are called to live a life that shows God’s grace and mercy. As a result, I always strive to do the most I can with what God has blessed me, so others will see the goodness of God through me.
Although I am far from perfect, I hope my presence in the community will be a source of positivity and kindness that stands out in our society.
I earned my law degree from Texas A&M University, where I fought against injustices along the Texas border and assisted entrepreneurs in securing intellectual property protection. Now, as an attorney, I help my clients resolve complicated disputes by helping them to navigate the judicial system.
This year, I ran for election to the Houston Community College board of trustees.
Where have you led in your community, and what was your role there?
Prior to law school, I worked with community leaders and key stakeholders to improve outcomes for urban minority youth and other disenfranchised populations while working for the Houston Health Department. I also was involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Sign up for our weekly edition and get all our headlines in your inbox on Thursdays
Currently, I serve on the Rotary Club of Houston’s board of directors, where I am responsible for coordinating the club’s polio eradication fundraising efforts. I also am actively engaged with the American Heart Association, where I developed and implemented a fundraising campaign that raised awareness of the prevalence of heart disease.
How does being a Christian influence your decisions?
My faith has an influence on many of the decisions I make daily. Specifically, I try to hold myself to the higher standard of morality set forth in the Bible, instead of just considering what is illegal under our judicial system.
Also, my faith gives me confidence in my decision-making, because I believe all things do work together for good to those who love God and to those who are called according to his purpose.
What do you love about your community? Why?
I love how resilient my community is. I am amazed by the many creative and innovative ways my friends, family and neighbors have navigated through the pandemic financially, emotionally and spiritually.
Name the three most significant challenges and/or influences facing your community.
• Access to education.
• Access to health care.
• Violence.
What are your community’s greatest contributions?
Our greatest contributions are two-fold. On a macro level, my community adds to the rich and diverse tapestry of cultures Houston is known for. Historically, the Third Ward has produced many prominent Houstonians from Congresswoman Barbara Jordan to Beyoncé. However, the future is even brighter, as there are many current residents following in the footsteps of giants—such as Dr. Thomas Freeman and Rev. Lawson—who have yet to make their mark on the world.
On a micro level, my community contributes to the lives of its individual residents by providing the resources and support at community centers—such as the S.H.A.P.E. Community Center and Change Happens—to sustain the culture and identity of the neighborhood.
About Brandon
Why are you Baptist?
I am Baptist because I grew up in a Baptist household, and I am the son of a Baptist pastor. However, over time, as I began to read and grow spiritually, I confirmed my personal beliefs align with the Baptist teachings, and that is why I remain a member of the Baptist church community.
What is your favorite Bible verse or passage? Why?
Hebrews 12:1-3. This passage is the foundation of one of my favorite sermons I remember from my childhood. My interest in sports made the reference to running a race particularly interesting to me as a child.
Today, the passage continues to resonate with me as I ran a political race and am finding there are many opportunities to be led astray.
Who is your favorite person in the Bible, other than Jesus? Why?
I always have been intrigued by the transformation and impact of Paul.
We seek to connect God’s story and God’s people around the world. To learn more about God’s story, click here.
Send comments and feedback to Eric Black, our editor. For comments to be published, please specify “letter to the editor.” Maximum length for publication is 300 words.