DBU Report Winter 2020-2021 - Page 18

DBU REPORT 18 F or a long time it has been a vision of Dr. Adam C. Wright, President, and Dr. Gary Cook, Chancellor, to help students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors become more knowledgeable of the University’s rich history and heritage in the Baptist tradition. Although DBU welcomes students of all faith backgrounds, it remains unashamedly Baptist and maintains a special relationship with Baptists around the state, nation, and the world. Allison Hopgood serves as the founding Director and will be the welcoming face to all who visit the new Center. She has already been busy collecting, organizing, and preparing materials for display, many of which have been donated by individuals, publishing houses, Baptist archives, and the Texas Baptist Heritage Center. The Center, located within Ford Village, was made possible through a generous endowment gift from an anonymous donor and will focus on providing an educational, visually engaging tour display that will enable visitors to learn more about the history and heritage of Baptists. Individuals will have the opportunity to learn even more about Baptist beginnings in Great Britain and North America, be inspired by notable leaders throughout history, and celebrate the distinctive Baptist principles of Biblical commitment, congregational autonomy, and dedication to religious liberty. Visitors will be able to learn more about Baptists and their many contributions to society in evangelism, education, missions, and social reform. “Our mission and goal for the Center for Baptist History and Heritage,” Hopgood explains, “is to provide people with information that will inspire and encourage them to learn more about the beliefs and heritage that make Baptists a diverse and unique part of the worldwide family of Christians.” Special thematic exhibits are being planned with special addresses provided by guest lecturers. For example, an emphasis on religious freedom around the Fourth of July will involve special displays of Thomas Helwys, Founding Director Allison Hopgood