Michael Ballard is a deaf native Californian.  After participating in the 2001 Roma Deaflympics (water polo), he grew to love the people of Western New York while serving an ASL mission. He holds BA & MA degrees in Communication and Communication & Leadership and a doctorate degree in Philosophy of Education. When not learning British Sign Language, Michael loves to spend time building bonfires, fishing, and cast-iron cooking for his family and friends. Michael currently serves as a counselor in the Provo South Stake presidency and on the Church’s ASL Board of Education. Favorite Grub: Buffalo Wings! Fish ‘n’ Chips! Hot Fried Chicken!

Justine Ballard is a native Coloradoan. As a college freshman, Justine danced in BYU’s top ballet company. After graduating summa cum laude, she worked to obtain her national Applied Behavior Analyst certification, where she worked as a therapist for 10 years. She loves all things Mexican food and especially loves Colorado green chili. Justine currently serves as a youth Sunday School teacher. When not working as a homeschool teacher, Justine loves to spend time outdoors hiking and camping, and in her vegetable garden. Favorite Grub: all things Mexican and Colorado green chili!

President and Sister Ballard have been married for nearly 15 years and together have 5 children, a dog (Haley), and 8 hens. Bishop and Sister Ballard have lived in 4 states during their marriage together.  As a family, they have been to 20 states together with many more planned in the future.