Our graduates are called, transformed, and sent to lead a life of eternal impact, and we love celebrating the life change they get to be a part of through the local church!
INTRODUCING
Dani Chavez Blake
2023 Highlands College Graduate
Dani Chavez Blake is a 2023 graduate serving as the Dream Team Lead and Executive Assistant at Catalyst Church in Washington, D.C.
After completing her time at Highlands College, she followed God’s call to the Washington, D.C., area, where she now plays a key role in helping others connect and grow in their faith. Dani’s journey has been marked by incredible experiences and deepening her skills in ministry.
Keep reading to learn more about Dani, her time at Highlands College, advice for those along their ministry journey, and how God is moving in her city.
What do you love about your role?
As Dream Team Lead, I love getting to connect with people and hear their stories. There’s something special about learning how they ended up in the D.C. area and how they found Catalyst Church. It’s a joy to be the connection point for someone taking the next step to call Catalyst ‘home.’
What do you love about living in the D.C. area?
I live in D.C. but work in Maryland and do my grocery shopping in Virginia! It sounds like a lot, but it’s all so close together. D.C. is a vibrant city with character, filled with people from around the world. There’s always something to do—making it exciting. Maryland feels like a small town surrounded by big cities, and Virginia offers beautiful nature just 30 minutes away. I love the mix of city life and nature in the area.
How did you get connected with Catalyst Church?
I interviewed Catalyst Church at the ARC Conference in April 2024 and felt an immediate connection to their vision and community.
What are some of your favorite memories from Highlands College?
One of my favorite memories is being part of the transition from the Greystone Campus to the new Highlands College campus off of Highway 280. It was amazing to watch and participate in that answered prayer. I also loved the time I spent with people at Church of the Highlands. Being surrounded by friends who share the same love for Jesus, who pray with you, teach you, and call you higher, is something I’ll always cherish.
Dani speaking at Discovery Day.
Dani with her Highlands College Expedition team.
What is your favorite hobby or way to spend an off day?
On my day off, I enjoy reading, cycling, and painting—especially watercolor. Since moving to the D.C. area, I love having a slow morning and then going on a bike ride or setting up my hammock in a park to read or paint. I’m always looking for an excuse to be outdoors.
If you could encourage a recent graduate or someone starting their ministry journey, what would you say?
Know that this season is about God shaping you into the person He wants you to become. He’ll place you in situations that make you uncomfortable, but that’s where growth happens. The enemy will try to discourage you, but you have authority over him. Don’t give up because things aren’t going as planned; instead, let God work in His timing.
Remember, ‘they don’t give out gold medals for fast starts but for strong finishes.’ So, wake up, pray, put on the full armor of God, and stay focused on the people God puts in your path.
Any stories or testimonies you’d like to share?
When I interviewed with Catalyst, we prayed for the student ministry, and six months later, we held our first student event, Momentum Night. It was amazing to see that prayer come to life. Watching students being poured into and serving as seed planters for the future was truly a testimony of answered prayer.
Dani with Catalyst Church members.
Dani with Highlands College friends.
Dani with a friend at church.
Looking Ahead
Dani’s journey shows how God continues to work through Highlands College alumni, equipping them to make an impact wherever He leads. We look forward to seeing how she continues to grow, plant seeds in the harvest field, and build the local church.
We hope you enjoyed getting to know one of our amazing Highlands College alums. Learn more about Highlands College and how you can connect to our incredible network of graduates around the world.