DBU Report Winter 2020-2021 - Page 5

WINTER 2020–2021 5 “Who would have thought as an 18-year-old kid driving up on University Hill that one day the tap that I would get on my shoulder would be serving as University President,” Dr. Wright stated, reflecting back on his first day on campus as an undergraduate student. “I can only begin to imagine what God has in store for the lives of our students. When I think about DBU, I think about the fact that eternity is shaped by what happens on University Hill.” Past Russell Perry Award recipients featured during the evening spoke on behalf of DBU’s leadership in transformative education, including Boone Powell, Jr., Gretchen Minyard Williams, Ross Perot, Jr., Raymond Harris, and Drs. Ken and Millie Cooper. In addition, family and friends of this year’s recipients shared their fondest memories of Sparkey and Merrie’s impact on their lives and the love and joy they have spread to countless others. A former Air Force First Lieutenant, Sparkey moved with his wife, Merrie, and their four young children to Dallas in 1963, creating real estate and development opportunities that reached across the state of Texas and beyond. As an active real estate investor and visionary development professional, he takes great pleasure in mentoring and supporting others with their education and businesses. The Beckhams have also contributed extensively to the Baptist community and beyond and have held many leadership positions. Sparkey has been active as a trustee on many boards simultaneously over the years, including Baylor University, Baylor University Medical Center, and Baylor Heart & Vascular Hospital. He has also served as Chair of the Board for both Baylor Healthcare System and Baylor University Medical Center, and as a member of the Dallas Rotary Club with perfect attendance for 50 years! Merrie is also incredibly involved in the community, helping to establish one of the first Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) programs in the state of Texas. Merrie’s ministry to young mothers reaches well past the walls of Park Cities Baptist Church, as she has been recognized for her service to others by several civic and educational institutions. For the past 35 years, the Beckhams have provided generous support to the mission of DBU in preparing Christian servant leaders. “There is no telling the great things that are coming out with the students at DBU,” Merrie shared. “It is great to dream about, and pray for, and love and support. I don’t see DBU just for Texas or the United States. I see it having a big place in the world.” “The Lord has done wonderful things,” echoed Sparkey, “and we are glad to be a part of it. DBU is a treasure that we need to honor and protect and pray for.” “DBU is so thankful for friends like the Beckhams,” expressed Dr. Wright. “Their generous support of DBU means so much, and they are an outstanding example to our students of Christian servant leadership. It was our privilege to honor them with this year’s 2020 Russell H. Perry Award.” C.T. “Sparkey” and Merrie Beckham Honored with 2020 Russell Perry Award There is no telling the great things that are coming out with the students at DBU... DBU is a treasure that we need to honor and protect and pray for. Sparkey and Merrie Beckham