DBU Report Winter 2020-2021 - Page 31

WINTER 2020–2021 31 INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BAPTIST COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES (IABCU) MOVES OFFICE TO CAMPUS OF DBU DBU has been a long-time member of the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities (IABCU), the mission of which is to unite higher education endeavors among Baptists through connection, collaboration, and sharing of best practices. “Christian higher education is at a crossroads. Never before in history have there been greater challenges, but with great challenges come great opportunities.” Along with an annual conference each summer that brings together leaders of participating Baptist institutions, IABCU publishes a triannual academic journal The Baptist Educator and hosts webinars, fellowships, mentoring programs, and other services to continue growing the legacy of Baptist education around the world. “Christian higher education is at a crossroads,” says Ashley Hill, who serves as Executive Secretary. “Never before in history have there been greater challenges, but with great challenges come great opportunities. IABCU’s goal is to ensure that our Baptist colleges, universities, and seminaries band together to weather these days and come out better positioned to serve students as they seek to serve the Lord.” For six years, the office of IABCU was located on the campus of Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama. Beginning in January 2021, the office was relocated to the campus of Dallas Baptist University. “I have long had a fondness for Dallas Baptist University, as its leaders set a standard of excellence that other Baptist institutions can emulate,” reflects Hill about her transition to University Hill. “It is a special place, and I am delighted to officially join the DBU family. Dr. Cook and Dr. Wright have both been trusted colleagues and valuable assets to the IABCU family of institutions. I look forward to developing meaningful collaborations and partnerships among our Baptist institutions, with their help.” “I have long had a fondness for Dallas Baptist University, as its leaders set a standard of excellence that other Baptist institutions can emulate.” Ashley Hill holds a B.S. in Accounting from Auburn University, an MAPD with a concentration in Higher Education from DBU, and is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. She has been married for 21 years to husband Jonathan, who runs his own business consulting firm. Ashley and Jonathan have a heart for church planting and church revitalization and were involved in starting a collegiate church on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. They have two daughters, a 7th grader, Patterson, and Mary Anneliese, who is a freshman this year at DBU. Ashley Hill “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9