WINTER 2025 1 SPECIAL EDITION THE DBU REPORT THE MAGAZINE OF DALLAS BAPTIST UNIVERSITY WINTER 2025 HISTORIC $20 MILLION GIFT ESTABLISHES CARTER SCHOOL OF BUSINESS Story on page 14
DBU REPORT 2 VISION STATEMENT Building a great Christian university that is pleasing to God by producing Christcentered servant leaders who are transforming the world. MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Dallas Baptist University is to provide Christ-centered quality higher education in the arts, sciences, and professional studies at both the undergraduate and graduate levels to traditional age and adult students in order to produce servant leaders who have the ability to integrate faith and learning through their respective callings. A Commentary on the Mission Statement of Dallas Baptist University by Dr. David Naugle DBU IS COMMITTED AS A COMMUNITY OF FAITH AND LEARNING… “The result of this program of education is the formation of whole persons who have developed a Christian mind, and who have the character, knowledge, and competencies to pursue their personal and professional callings as servant leaders who transform the creation and culture in patterning themselves after the service and leadership supremely exemplified in the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Soli Deo Gloria.”
WINTER 2025 1 FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Friend: We are reminded daily of the unique calling placed upon us as a Christ-centered institution of higher education. Our mission is to integrate faith and learning in ways that not only shape the minds of our students but also cultivate their hearts, preparing them to lead and serve with excellence in a complex and ever-changing world. At DBU, this mission is needed now as much as ever before. This past semester, we have witnessed incredible moments of growth and remarkable examples of how the Lord is working through our campus community. From the transformative experiences of our students, the faithful generosity of our alumni and friends, to the tireless dedication of our faculty and staff, we see the evidence of His blessings all around University Hill. I hope you enjoy reading about these moments in this publication! King Jesus continues to be faithful in ways that are worth highlighting as an encouragement to us all. As we look toward the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide an education that equips our students not only for success in their careers but also for their lives of impact, leadership, and service. Though it can sometimes feel as if storm clouds are brewing within and outside of higher education in ways that could jeopardize the way forward, I am emboldened by all of you who stand alongside us in this sacred work. Your support ensures that DBU continues to be a place where excellence is pursued, faith is nurtured, and lives are transformed for God’s glory. Sincerely, Adam C. Wright, Ph.D. DBU continues to be a place where excellence is pursued, faith is nurtured, and lives are transformed for God’s glory.
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WINTER 2025 3 1 FROM THE PRESIDENT 4 NEWS & NOTES 8 A WOMAN OF CHARACTER Ruth Award Recipients 9 NEW CENTER FOR GLOBAL RELIGIOUS FREEDOM Shelton Family Gift Protects Religious Freedom 10 DBU LEADERSHIP GALA SETS RECORD Over $1 Million Raised for Scholarships 14 HISTORIC $20 MILLION GIFT ESTABLISHES CARTER SCHOOL OF BUSINESS 16 A TREASURED SYMBOL OF FAITH Pilgrim Chapel Celebrates 15-Year Anniversary 22 SPREADING SEEDS OF FAITH OASIS Plant Shop’s Thriving Ministry in Bishop Arts 24 HOMECOMING 26 CHRISTMAS ON THE HILL 27 PATRIOT ATHLETICS ADMINISTRATION PRESIDENT Dr. Adam C. Wright CHANCELLOR Dr. Gary Cook PROVOST Dr. Norma Hedin SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Jonathan Teat VICE PRESIDENT for international Affairs Randy Byers VICE PRESIDENT for student affairs Dr. Jay Harley VICE PRESIDENT for advancement Ryan Hefton VICE PRESIDENT for Financial Affairs Dr. Matt Murrah General Counsel Christa Van Der Merwe CONTRIBUTORS EDITOR Clancy Spencer CONTRIBUTING COPY EDITOR Mary Ann Lackland, Fluency Organization, Inc. ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Kadra Fant UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPHER Exauce Madjibe Dijo writer, athletics Reagan Ratcliff Winter 2025 I Volume 37 I Number 1 THE DBU REPORT The DBU Report is a quarterly publication produced by the Division of Marketing and Communications at Dallas Baptist University for Patriots and friends of DBU across the globe. Opinions and views presented in this publication are not necessarily those of the editorial staff, administration, or official policies of DBU. Copyright © 2025 by Dallas Baptist University. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. TO UPDATE YOUR RECORDS: news@dbu.edu
DBU REPORT 4 NEWS & NOTES DBU recently recognized several distinguished faculty members for their faithful service to the University and their lasting contribution to DBU’s student body and academic culture. The prestigious title Professor Emeritus was bestowed upon each honoree at the Professor Emeritus Luncheon in recognition of their having served at the University for 20 years or longer and upon the recommendations of the dean of their college, Dr. Norma Hedin, provost, and Dr. Adam C. Wright, president. The honorees were also approved by the DBU Board of Trustees. We are so grateful for these newest members of such an esteemed group of DBU faculty, and we give God praise for their significant work for the Kingdom and for their faithful dedication to transforming lives for Christ. NEWLY NAMED PROFESSORS EMERITUS Front row, L-R: Dr. Bonnie Bond, Professor of Education (retired); Dr. Jean Humphries, Professor of Sociology (retired); Dr. Deborah McCollister, Professor of English (retired); Dr. Gail Linam, Senior Advisor to the Provost, Dr. Dawna Hamm Walsh, Chair, Department of Art (retired); Judy Abercrombie, Professor of Education (retired); Dr. Barbara Wallace, Professor of Music Theory (retired) Back row, L-R: Daniel Kung, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice (retired); Dr. Chip Ricketts, Professor of Marketing (retired); Dr. Joan Davis, Professor of Counseling and Psychology (retired); Dr. Nancy McLaughlin, Professor of Education (retired); Dr. Dale Sims, Dean, College of Business (retired); Dr. Steve Mullen, Dean, College of Christian Faith (retired); Dr. Adam C. Wright, President
WINTER 2025 5 FALL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE INSTITUTE FOR GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT The Institute for Global Engagement (IGE) is a Christian, nonpartisan think tank at DBU dedicated to addressing issues in the public square with biblical distinctiveness. The mission of the IGE is to be a moral and spiritual catalyst for renewal in our culture. Their mid-September Leadership Lecture Series featured three foreign policy experts who addressed American foreign policy toward Ukraine, Russia, and NATO. Liz Brailsford, CEO of the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth, introduced the panelists. Panelist Fiona Hill serves as Senior Fellow in the Center on the United States and Europe within the foreign policy program at the Brookings Institution. She was joined by David J. Kramer, executive director of the George W. Bush Institute, who served in the Department of State during the president’s administration. Costanze Stelzenmüller, the director of the United States and Europe for the Brookings Institution also spoke. Rudolph “Rudy” Bush, editorial page editor and vice president at The Dallas Morning News, moderated the conversation. Later that same month, the IGE welcomed Dr. Peter J. Williams, author of The Surprising Genius of Jesus, as part of their Veritas Lecture Series. Dr. Williams, who presented an analysis of the teaching style of Jesus, is the principal and CEO of Tyndale House, Cambridge, an international center for research specializing in the languages, history, and cultural context of the Bible. Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, senior fellow for Christian origins at the IGE, also moderated a Q&A session with Dr. Williams. Rounding out the fall schedule, the IGE hosted a two-day event in October focused on the rise in religious persecution throughout the world. The event was in cooperation with Pepperdine University’s Program on Global Faith & Inclusive Societies, Christians Against All Persecution, and Templeton Religious Trust. Dr. Randel Everett, senior fellow for religious freedom, moderated a discussion about the Church’s responsibility to pray for the persecuted. Panelists included Bob Fu from ChinaAid, along with Katie Frugé from Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission, and Rex Horne from the Arkansas Baptist State Convention. BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN CULTURES Dr. Andrea Ramirez, (‘06) was recently recognized by Congress for her service as a woman of distinction in America. Hon. Lisa C. McClain of Michigan, member of the U.S. House of Representatives, recognized Dr. Ramirez on the floor of the House on September 25. Dr. Ramirez was also named a 2024 Christian Woman of Distinction by She Serves America, a prestigious and diverse organization of accomplished Christian women from across our nation. We are fortunate to have Dr. Ramirez serving as a current DBU trustee, but it is her father—our own Dr. Gus Reyes—who feels especially blessed by such an
DBU REPORT 6 accomplished and devoted daughter. Dr. Reyes is DBU’s director of Hispanic Partnerships serving Hispanic churches, educational organizations, students, and families throughout Texas. Following her father’s example, Dr. Ramirez dedicated her life to Christ and began investing her time and energy building bridges between cultures in order to create harmony among the differences. She earned an MBA in Conflict Resolution at DBU and her Ph.D. at Regent University. Dr. Ramirez also worked in the White House as a policy advisor and as the director of Hispanic Outreach, as well as special assistant to the President. Dr. Ramirez was also a natural choice among her colleagues to lead White House initiatives based at the U.S. Department of Education, including the Center for Faith and Opportunity Initiative and the White House Initiative for Hispanics in Educational Excellence. She also served as executive director of the Faith and Education Coalition of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC). In addition to being an important leader for our University, Dr. Ramirez currently sits on the NHCLC’s Executive Committee and is an Open Education Resources Advisory board member for the Texas Education Agency. NEW SENIOR DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AND PARENT ENGAGEMENT DBU welcomes Dale Braswell, Ph.D., (’98, ’23) as the new Senior Director of Alumni and Parent Engagement. His responsibilities include developing the DBU Alumni Association for the University’s 38,000+ alumni by providing increased opportunities for networking and resources, as well as opportunities for alumni to serve each other and advance the mission of DBU. Dr. Braswell is no stranger to DBU, having earned a bachelor’s degree in Religious Education at the University and later his Ph.D. in Leadership Studies. Dr. Braswell met his wife, Tina, as an undergrad. They served on staff at churches in Alabama and Tennessee before planting a church near Seattle, Washington. Prior to joining our staff in October 2024, he was the lead pastor at Wedgwood Baptist Church in Ft. Worth. Dr. Braswell looks forward to providing leadership to DBU alumni and parents in his new role. “As a parent of a DBU student, I understand the vital role parents play in the lives of students. I want to provide parents with avenues to connect with the mission of DBU and help students succeed during and after their time on University Hill.” Connect with us at (214) 333-5168 or alumni@dbu.edu or by scanning this code. POOL OF BETHESDA PRAYER GARDEN OPENS The Pool of Bethesda prayer garden recently opened on campus and provides a soothing waterfall feature and beautiful overlook. It serves as a quiet place to meet with God and reflect on His goodness and mercy. The prayer garden was uniquely designed to beckon those seeking healing from trauma and hurt in honor of John’s account of Jesus healing a man at the Pool of Bethesda outside the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem. This latest addition to DBU’s award-winning campus landscape is a hidden gem and place of respite. Etched in stone in the pool is the reminder from Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.” We invite you to spend a quiet few moments in prayer at the Pool of Bethesda the next time you are on the DBU campus. See page 30 for an inspiring story about baptisms taking place there.
WINTER 2025 7 WINTER 2024 COMMENCEMENT Over 400 new undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral graduates joined the DBU Family in two December 2024 commencement services. Dr. Shellie Michael Greene received his Ph.D. in Leadership Studies with a concentration in Ministry at the morning commencement service and also delivered the commencement address. He serves as the pastor of THE ROCK Mount Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, Dallas County’s oldest African American Church. Prior to serving at THE ROCK, Dr. Greene faithfully served 23 years at Concord Church in Dallas as children’s pastor, senior associate pastor of Next Generation Ministries, teaching pastor, director of ministry, and pastor of teaching, evangelism, and leadership. Dr. Greene holds a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from DBU. Dr. Randel Everett, senior fellow for religious freedom at DBU gave the commencement address at the afternoon ceremony. Dr. Everett is the director of the new Center for Global Religious Freedom at DBU (see story on page 9) and founder of the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative promoting religious freedom advocacy. He has also served as a pastor, chaplain, and as the former executive director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. In addition, Dr. Everett was the founding president of the John Leland Center for Theological Studies in Falls Church, Virginia. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas, his Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He has received two honorary degrees, including a Doctor of Divinity from the University of Richmond and a Doctor of Humanities from DBU. Following each event, a reception was held for the graduates, their family, and special guests in the Hillcrest Great Hall inside the John G. Mahler Student Center. RECOGNITION FOR 35 YEARS OF MINISTRY DBU recently honored Rolando Rodriguez (’05,’17) at a special chapel service and reception held in his honor for his 35 years of faithful ministry service. Those who know Pastor Rolando know his passion for saving souls, his servant’s heart, and his infectious love of music. His leadership has built a lasting legacy impacting countless families and Baptist churches within the Hispanic community in Texas and far beyond. Colleagues and friends are quick to praise his leadership ability, his dedication to family, and above all his commitment to God. Pastor Rolando currently serves as the director of Texas Baptists en Español at Texas Baptists. He previously served in pastoral roles at Hampton Place Baptist Church and Cockrell Hill Baptist Church and has served on various committees for the Dallas Baptist Association and on the Board of Trustees at Baptist University of the Americas. A dear friend of the University, Pastor Rolando also completed a Master of Arts in Christian Education and a Master of Arts in Global Leadership at DBU. For the tremendous work Pastor Rolando has accomplished for the Kingdom of God, President Adam C. Wright noted, “If there is one quality I admire about Pastor Rolando, it is that he knows that God’s way is always better than man’s way. He is constantly putting God’s way forward and seeking God’s way and God’s vision.” Pastor Rolando and his wife, Angie, have three children.
DBU REPORT 8 The Women’s Auxiliary Board presents the annual Ruth Award to commend women who are exceptionally dedicated to God, family, others, and to supporting Christian education at DBU. The award draws inspiration from the great love and commitment demonstrated by the Biblical story of Ruth. The 2024 recipients include three distinguished women whose lives shine brightly for Christ. Kathleen Hardage was presented the Ruth Award by her husband, Dr. David Hardage, former executive director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas, in recognition of her devotion to family, her love for teaching in public school, and her faithful service as a pastor’s wife. Marilyn Mansfield was also presented with the Ruth Award by her husband, Dr. Stephen Mansfield, former dean of DBU’s College of Business, who praised her many years of service as a teacher, along with recognizing her joyful spirit, intense loyalty, and sacrificial love. Courtney Cuthbert presented the Ruth Award to her mother, former DBU Associate Provost Deemie Naugle, giving a heartfelt speech recounting her mother’s dedication to excellence in higher education at DBU and her selfless love for Deemie’s late husband, Dr. David Naugle. Deemie Naugle, Marilyn Mansfield, and Kathleen Hardage Women’s Auxiliary Board Executive Director Leslie Moulton, First Lady Candice Wright, Ruth Awards Luncheon Chairman Patty Lovvorn, and Women’s Auxiliary Board President Mary Brigham A WOMAN OF CHARACTER Ruth Award Recognizes Distinguished Honorees The Women’s Auxiliary Board invites women interested in supporting Christian education at DBU to explore online at dbu.edu/wab or scan this code for more information. Martha Edwards, Candice Wright, Marilyn Mansfield, and Jaycee Duce
WINTER 2025 9 In response to the alarming increase in global religious persecution, Garlyn and La Juan Shelton donated $1 million to establish the Center for Global Religious Freedom (CGRF) on the DBU campus. The Sheltons are gracious friends of the University, and we are deeply grateful for their faithful support and for their inspiring vision to protect religious freedom throughout the world. Director Dr. Randel Everett recently answered questions about the new CGRF and its role in defending religious freedom. Q Why is Global Religious Freedom so important today? A Two of every three people in the world face religious persecution. Christians are regularly targeted, but others also suffer, including Muslims, Hindus, Baha’is, Yazidis, even atheists, because of their beliefs. Persecution may involve discrimination, harassment, violence, abductions, destruction of property including homes and places of worship, imprisonment, and even death. Jesus reminds us in the Great Commandment to love God with all of our heart and to love others as we love ourselves. DBU is perfectly situated to be a leading voice for this foundational freedom because of the University’s dedication to Christ, its commitment to Baptist practices, and a worldview that includes a robust international community. The administration and faculty have deep commitments to religious freedom and compassion for the persecuted. I hope we can build on this strong foundation by offering classes, conferences, advocacy opportunities, and partnerships with other universities, churches, and advocacy groups standing with the persecuted and promoting global religious freedom. Q Why did the Sheltons want to help establish the CGRF at DBU? A They have a love for Christ, the church, our nation, and a burden for suffering people around the world. When Garlyn heard me tell stories of religious persecution, he asked what they could do in response. I shared my vision of starting a Center for Global Religious Freedom at DBU, and they wanted to do their part by contributing a generous foundational gift. Q Why are you passionate about global religious freedom? A One Sunday as a seminary student, I was moved to tears while singing the third stanza of “I Love to Tell the Story,” especially the phrase: “…for some have never heard, the message of salvation from God’s own holy Word.” Many around the world have never heard the Gospel because Bibles and churches are banned. Those who do proclaim the Gospel face recrimination and possibly even death. When beliefs are protected and the Gospel is preached within a context of love for all people, many will believe. We must continue to support religious freedom at home and fight for religious freedom for others. When we learn the stories of those being persecuted, our love for Christ compels us to stand with them. NEWLY ESTABLISHED CENTER FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM RECEIVES $1 MILLION GIFT
DBU REPORT 10 ONE MILLION DOLLARS RAISED for student scholarships at the 2024 Leadership Gala
WINTER 2025 11 Ron and Wanda Carter with Ron and Sondra Skaggs 2024 DBU LEADERSHIP GALA SETS FUNDRAISING RECORD For 37 years, the DBU Leadership Gala has honored individuals for their selfless service to their community and support for Christ-centered education at DBU. By raising vital funds for student scholarships, the event helps ensure that future generations of students are afforded the opportunity for a Christ-centered, transformative education at the University. At our Gala this past fall, something extraordinary happened. DBU set a new record by raising more than one million dollars, the most scholarship funds ever raised for the annual event. The overwhelming response speaks to the generosity of our donors and their stalwart support for developing more young men and women into the godly and principled leaders of tomorrow who will shape the future as agents of change. Over the years, the DBU Leadership Gala has recognized and celebrated countless examples of Christian men and women of faith. While those who live as outstanding testimonies of achievement and free enterprise do not do so for the applause of others, the Gala provides the opportunity for a grateful community to thank them for their contribution. This year we recognized two special honorees, Ron Carter and Ron Skaggs. Carter received the Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award for his extraordinary leadership and lasting impact on business and community initiatives. Skaggs received the Tom Landry Leadership Award for his exceptionally impactful role in architecture and for his faithful commitment to service. The remarkable generosity of friends and supporters of DBU at the Gala this year was inspiring and serves to deepen our commitment to equip future generations who will follow in the footsteps of humble leaders like these two men. LEGACIES OF FAITH AND FAMILY As a young man, Ron Carter worked as a stocker at Home Interiors & Gifts, Inc., a highly successful business founded by his grandmother, the late Mary Carter Crowley. His rise to being named Chief Operating Officer reflects his hard work and dedication to Christ. Carter also served in numerous leadership positions within the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Sidekicks franchises founded by his parents, Don and Linda Carter. From Vice President of the Crowley-Carter Foundation to numerous board appointments, including Baylor Scott & White Health, Scottish Rite for Children, and Mary Crowley Cancer Research, Carter’s godly impact in the community and faithful service Scholarships help students receive a Christ-centered, transformative education for generations to come.
DBU REPORT 12 Future generations of DBU servant leaders follow in the footsteps of people like Ron Carter and Ron Skaggs. Dinner Chair Dr. David B. Walls applauds as Dr. Adam C. Wright presents the Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award to Ron Carter Ron Skaggs speaks before receiving the Tom Landry Leadership Award, presented by Dr. Adam C. Wright with Dinner Chair Dr. David B. Walls to others will inspire generations to come. He and his wife, Wanda, have two adult sons. Wanda previously served on the DBU Board of Trustees. Ron Skaggs built a reputation as an architecture pioneer, servant leader, and distinguished U.S. service member as an officer in the U.S. Army Surgeon General’s Office in the Pentagon. Skaggs also became a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects and member of the Corps of Cadets Hall of Honor at his alma mater, Texas A&M University. He previously served as Chairman and CEO of HKS Architects, the firm that designed Joan and Andy Horner Ballpark—home to the DBU Patriots Baseball team. Skaggs is now Chairman Emeritus at HKS and serves on the DBU Board of Trustees. His exceptional devotion to country and leadership within his profession is exceeded only by his desire to follow Jesus as a man of integrity and sterling character. Ron and his wife, Sondra, have three adult sons. “We were so pleased this year to honor Ron Carter and Ron Skaggs for their exceptional Christian leadership in Dallas, the State of Texas, and beyond. Both individuals represent the embodiment of lives and careers lived in a way consistent with our mission at DBU, and it was a privilege to recognize them,” said Dr. Adam C. Wright, president.
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DBU REPORT 14 When God wanted to elevate Christian business education in Dallas, He chose to do it through a family. HISTORIC $20 MILLION GIFT ESTABLISHES CARTER SCHOOL OF BUSINESS On the same evening that Ron Carter was being honored at the DBU Leadership Gala with the Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award recognizing his extraordinary leadership in business and community initiatives, the Carter family announced an extraordinary honor on behalf of the University. A remarkable and record-setting gift of $20 million to Dallas Baptist University was given that evening from Linda Carter, her son, Ron Carter, and her daughter, Christi Carter Urschel, to establish the Don and Linda Carter School of Business. The University’s relationship with the Carter family began many decades ago with the late Mary Carter Crowley, a brilliant Christian businesswoman and founder of Home Interiors & Gifts, Inc. who began providing financial support to DBU in 1969. A hard-working woman of great faith, she was inspired by the University’s mission to cultivate future generations of Christian servantleaders grounded in truth, faith, knowledge, and character. What she learned from a lifetime of following God, she also imparted to her family—including her son, the late Don Carter, and his wife, Linda. For many years, they have continued the family tradition of supporting Christcentered higher education at DBU in the heart of Dallas, just as Don’s mother had done. This most recent commitment by the Carter family is the largest gift in DBU history and builds upon their family’s longstanding support for DBU’s mission, while reflecting their dedication to honoring God and supporting students. “The Carter family continues the desire to support the educational and spiritual strength of future generations of Dallas Baptist University graduates,” explained Ron Carter at the Gala. “We are proud that Dallas Baptist University is a solid representation of biblical principles and demonstrates the fortitude necessary to stand firm and stand out in our secularly dominated culture.” More than fifty years after her first gift to DBU, Mary Carter Crowley’s family continues to honor God and bless the Dallas community and beyond in ways that promise to benefit countless others for eternity.
WINTER 2025 15 Ron Carter, Christi Carter Urschel, Linda Carter, and Dr. Adam C. Wright ENGAGING THE MARKETPLACE The legendary love that Ron and Christi’s parents maintained for their city—and the people who live there—is as well-known as their faith in Jesus. Don and Linda became significant and influential figures in the Dallas marketplace through sports, as well as philanthropy. Don, who will forever be remembered by those who knew him (and his cowboy hat!) as the “Original Maverick,” was instrumental alongside Linda in bringing the Dallas Mavericks professional basketball team to DFW, as well as the Dallas Sidekicks professional indoor soccer team. “The Carter family’s exceptional generosity, rooted in an enduring legacy of faith, will shape the future of our students through the Carter School of Business for generations to come,” said Dr. Adam C. Wright, president. “The Carter School of Business will forever stand as a testament to Don and Linda Carter’s unwavering belief in the transformative impact of Christian higher education. We are deeply grateful for the vision and trust the Carter family continues to place in DBU to produce future leaders marked by wisdom, ingenuity, work ethic, and integrity for years to come.” The Don and Linda Carter School of Business will continue producing graduates who engage the global marketplace as agents of change and who integrate faithdriven values and mastery of business disciplines. Built on the foundation of a devoted family’s love for Christ, this addition to our University will strengthen our commitment to produce Christ-centered servant leaders who serve others for the glory of God in the global marketplace. The legendary love that Ron and Christi’s parents maintained for their city— and the people who live there—is as well-known as their faith in Jesus.
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WINTER 2025 17 A Treasured Symbol of Faith Pilgrim Chapel Celebrates 15-Year Anniversary With the early morning sun reflecting on the golden cross atop the spire of Pilgrim Chapel, an adjunct professor saw a young man in distress parked alone on the DBU campus. He knocked on the driver’s window and asked if everything was okay. The young man was not a student at DBU but poured out his heart about his desperate desire to escape a dangerous gang lifestyle. After listening and praying with him, the professor asked how he had ended up on campus that morning. He looked up at Pilgrim Chapel and simply answered, “I saw the steeple, and I was drawn here.” Since its opening in the fall of 2009, the beacon of hope that is Pilgrim Chapel has steadily drawn many people close to God’s heart. In honor of the chapel’s 15-year anniversary, we give God thanks for the great things He has done with anticipation for all He is yet to do. The construction of Pilgrim Chapel, the most iconic building on the DBU campus, was the culmination of answered prayers over a period of decades. Chancellor Gary Cook, who served as DBU president during the fundraising and construction of the chapel, spearheaded the dream of building a chapel that would become the heart of the campus—a place to
DBU REPORT 18 gather for worship, as well as academic study, discipleship, ministry, and evangelism. Years before a fundraising campaign had even been announced, an elderly woman who volunteered in the DBU campus mailroom gave DBU an inspiring gift. Lois Glenn was a faithful member of a group of senior adults who prayed for the University at President Cook’s request. While hospitalized near the end of her life, she left instructions in a note regarding a small amount of money that she had received for Mother’s Day. In a handwritten note left on her bedside table in the hospital room, Lois designated that the money be used in the future to build a chapel “where we can worship in quietness and reverence” on the campus of the University she loved. Today, the grandeur of Pilgrim Chapel honors God—and the widow’s mite.
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WINTER 2025 21 Credit: Miracles on University Hill: The Presidency of Dr. Gary Cook, Dr. Mary Nelson A City on a Hill: Dallas Baptist University an Architectural History, Dr. J. Blair Blackburn “THAT WAS AN AMAZING DAY” When praying about who would lead the fundraising effort to build the chapel, Dr. Cook felt led to ask future DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright, then the director of undergraduate admissions, to take on the role. Dr. Wright recalls Dr. Cook inviting him to take a walk on campus one evening: We were talking through my calling at DBU, and we stopped at the spot where the chapel stands today, and he began to share with me his vision about having a chapel at DBU. He felt like the Lord had said the time was now to build this building. Dr. Cook said, “Adam, I really feel like the Lord has impressed upon my heart to ask you to step into a role of leadership and lead the campaign to build this building.” Like a father would, he helped me understand how in the scripture God oftentimes chooses people to do extraordinary things. I asked, “Where do you think we are going to get this money?” He responded, “I don’t know, but I know that God knows… and He will send it.” So we knelt at that spot, and he showed me a passage, and I’ve never read it the same way again in my life: “We walk by faith and not by sight.” And we knelt there; we prayed and dedicated that ground to God and asked the Lord to bless it. We were going to take a step of faith. We weren’t going to walk by sight––we were going to walk by faith. Dr. Wright immediately began seeking and praying for a donor to fund the significant undertaking. He even wrote in his prayer journal about a Texas businessman and longtime supporter of the University, “Lord, please put a burden on Bo Pilgrim to fund this project.” Dr. Wright surprised himself by writing such a bold prayer, but his faith was strong. After months of working diligently on the fundraising campaign and fervently praying, God provided a miracle on March 24, 2006. That is the day Dr. Cook received the long-awaited call from Bo Pilgrim, who committed $8 million to the cost of construction. Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, former executive vice president of DBU, oversaw the architects and construction company for Pilgrim Chapel, and DBU broke ground shortly after receiving this amazingly generous initial lead gift. “My wife, Candice, and I had just finished praying together at lunch. We included in our requests for the Chapel, as we did nearly every moment possible, that people would give so we could move forward with the project. Dr. Cook called right then to let us know the Pilgrims had committed the lead gift. We were moved to tears…the Lord had answered our prayers and the prayers of so many. That was an amazing day.” -President Adam C. Wright
DBU REPORT 22 OASIS is located at 416 W. 8th Street in the Bishop Arts District in Dallas
WINTER 2025 23 Seeds her father planted in her heart as a child came to fruition when Bethany Mieth (’14) took a leap of faith and became an entrepreneur. Throughout his teaching career, Mieth’s father (also a DBU alum) owned an irrigation business. Inspired by his example, the desire to own a small business one day was always in the back of her mind. When the opportunity arose to start a plant store with Hannah Street, her co-founder who was also in the plant business, Mieth seized her chance. Both women felt God leading them to share His love through one of the wonders of His creation—plants. "OASIS was born out of a lot of faith and gumption,” Mieth shared. While searching for a storefront location for the burgeoning business, her grandfather offered to share space with his electric bike shop housed in a garage in the Dallas Bishop Arts district. Street’s experience in the plant industry coupled with the full support of her family gave Mieth confidence to move forward in faith. Both women felt confirmation from the Lord that they were pursuing the right thing. In fact, six months after opening the store they called OASIS, Street and Mieth had an opportunity to move to a greenhouse in Bishop Arts. God’s provision proved to be a perfect location. With all their success, the new business also met with challenges along the way. COVID, a broken air conditioner in the middle of summer, and an unexpected tax bill threatened Mieth’s resolve. But she did not give up on her dream. "Every time a huge roadblock gets in the way, and Hannah and I have asked, 'How can we overcome this?' God comes through,” she said. “Instead of worrying first, we pray. We are diligent with our finances, kind to everyone who walks through our doors, and give the glory to God." OASIS represents a modern approach to plant shopping and helps customers create their own living oasis at home. As the women explain on the company website, “We desire to bring new growth and life into the concrete jungle we live in through living plants.” Unlike a traditional plant nursery, OASIS is set in a boutique atmosphere of the cozy cottage style of Bishop Arts and even offers home design services to incorporate plants into living spaces. Mieth and her husband, Jordan, have a young son named Gene. Spreading Seeds of Faith OASIS PLANT SHOP’S THRIVING MINISTRY IN BISHOP ARTS Bethany with her husband, Jordan, and son, Gene Bethany Mieth and Hannah Street, co-owners of the Oasis Plant Shop Hannah and Bethany
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WINTER 2025 25 DBU Homecoming 2024 was a great success for DBU alumni and their family, as well as current (and future!) DBU students. Our DBU Patriots beat Mississippi College 109-45 at the Burg!
DBU REPORT 26 Christmas ON THE HILL Christmas at DBU is always a special time of year to celebrate the birth of the Savior.
WINTER 2025 27 A STRONG FALL SEASON PATRIOTATHLETICS DBU Athletics concluded its fall season with several achievements, including a pair of teams reaching the NCAA postseason and three programs nationally ranked in the top 25. Three Patriots also earned All-American honors, and 23 studentathletes earned All-Lone Star Conference recognition. LADY PATRIOTS SOCCER Soccer advanced to the NCAA postseason, marking the team’s 10th consecutive trip to an NCAA Regional, a feat that only four other teams have achieved. The Lady Patriots finished second in the Lone Star Conference regular season standings and advanced to the NCAA South Central Regional as the No. 3 seed. DBU defeated MSU Denver, 2-1, in the first round before falling to LSC foe Angelo State in a 1-0 thriller in overtime. Senior midfielder Taylor Tufts and junior defender Parker Coe were each named All-Americans at season end. Tufts, who was tabbed the LSC Player of the Year for the second consecutive season, was named a First Team All-American by the United Soccer Coaches and earned Second Team honors from the D2CCA, while Coe was recognized as a Second Team AllAmerican by the United Soccer Coaches. DBU capped off its season with a 16-3-3 record and was ranked No. 15 in the final United Soccer Coaches Top 25 poll. It marked the ninth season in which the DBU Women’s Soccer team finished with 15 or more wins in the last 13 years. VOLLEYBALL Volleyball also reached the NCAA postseason, advancing to the South Central Regional for the third consecutive year. Led by a veteran squad that featured seven seniors, the Lady Patriots cracked the top 25 for the first time in program history, reaching as high as No. 20 in the American Volleyball Coaches Association poll. After finishing tied for fourth in the Lone Star Conference standings, DBU reached the semifinals of the LSC Tournament and earned the No. 4 seed in the South Central Regional. There, they upset a Colorado Mesa team ranked No. 19 in the nation. With the win in the quarterfinal round, the Lady Patriots advanced to the semifinals for the second consecutive year, where they eventually fell to top-seeded Angelo State. Following the 2024 season, senior outside hitter Delaney Fuller was named a First Team All-American by the AVCA, making her the first two-time All-American in program history. Fuller also garnered LSC Player of the Year honors for the second consecutive year. DBU Women’s Soccer Team Celebrating Lady Patriot Delaney Fuller
DBU REPORT 28 CROSS COUNTRY In Cross Country, the Lady Patriots raced to a second-place finish at the Lone Star Conference Championships. DBU eventually finished 10th in the snowy conditions at the South Central Regional Championships in Denver, Colorado, where sophomore Lesli Salas earned a trip to Nationals with a 28thplace finish in a field of 171 runners. Competing in her second NCAA Division II National Championships in Sacramento, California, Salas placed 54th overall out of 259 runners with a time of 21:39.1 in the 6K event. GOLF Women’s Golf concluded their fall season ranked No. 5 in the Women’s Golf Coaches Association poll. The Lady Patriots won the DBU Classic at Robson Ranch Wildhorse Golf Club in Denton, Texas, and recorded second-place finishes in three other tournaments. The team now begins preparation for their spring season with hopes of advancing to their eighth consecutive trip to the NCAA National Championships. TENNIS In Women’s Tennis, the Lady Patriots completed their individual season with a strong showing. Four players concluded the fall ranked in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association national and regional rankings, headlined by junior Leonie Schondelmaier, who was ranked the No. 38 singles player in the nation. PATRIOTS SOCCER The Soccer team earned its third consecutive trip to the Lone Star Conference Tournament after finishing fifth in the LSC standings during the regular season. The Patriots defeated West Texas A&M 3-2 in the quarterfinal round to advance to the semifinals for the second consecutive year. DBU battled a St. Mary’s team, ranked No. 11 in the nation, to a 2-2 tie through regulation and double overtime before eventually dropping a 5-3 decision in penalty kicks. Senior forward Peyton Voelker concluded his career as the program’s all-time leading goal scorer and became the first player in program history to be named the LSC Forward of the Year. Voelker was also tabbed a First Team All-South Central Region selection, along with senior midfielder Hunter Dierlam, who was selected to the Second Team. GOLF AND TENNIS Men’s Golf and Tennis also wrapped up their fall seasons in preparation for their conference schedule in the spring with strong showings. The Golf team posted their top finish of the fall with a second-place finish at the Hrnciar at the Territory Golf Club in Lawton, Oklahoma, while Tennis shined at the ITA South Central Regional Championships, where the doubles teams of Matthew Abbey and Alec Rule, along with JW Altman and Fabian Rosales each won their opening rounds in A draw action before falling to top-seeded teams in the second round. BASKETBALL On the hardwood, the DBU Basketball team is ranked No. 6 in the nation and is 14-3 midway through the season.* The Patriots opened the year with a pair of wins at the D2CCA Canadian Tip-Off Classic in Langley, British Columbia, and have notched a pair of wins over nationally ranked teams. DBU is currently* 6-2 in conference play and in second place in the East Division of the Lone Star Conference. *at press time Reagan Ratcliff, Associate Athletic Director for Media Relations Lesli Salas Peyton Voelker Cameron Kahn and Graham Kroll
WINTER 2025 29 Coming off their 10th consecutive appearance in the NCAA Regional, the DBU Baseball team kicks off the 2025 season ranked No. 17 in the nation in Perfect Game’s Preseason Top 25. Under the guidance of Head Coach Dan Heefner, the Patriots have solidified their place among college baseball’s elite programs. DBU is one of just five teams nationally to reach the NCAA postseason each of the past 10 years, joining powerhouse programs like Florida, LSU, Oklahoma State, and Vanderbilt. Additionally, the Patriots have averaged 43 wins per season since 2015, ranking as the third-highest win total in the nation over that span. In 2025, DBU returns a talented and experienced roster, including 21 lettermen from last year’s squad that finished with a 45-15 record and earned the No. 2 seed in the Tucson Regional. Despite losing key players like program all-time strikeout leader Ryan Johnson (a second-round pick by the Los Angeles Angels) and thirdround pick Jaron DeBerry, the Patriots boast a wealth of returning talent. Among the standouts are Freshman All-American DBU Baseball Enters 2025 Season Ranked No. 17, Poised for Continued Success Luke Pettitte, All-Region selections Chayton Krauss and Tom Poole, and CUSA Newcomer of the Year Michael Dattalo. The team also brings back six AllCUSA selections: Dattalo, Luke Heefner, Grant Jay, Krauss, Pettitte, and Poole. DBU also bolstered its roster with 20 newcomers, including four impactful Division I transfers: Nick Bonn (Pepperdine), Micah Bucknam (LSU), Rian Schwede (Villanova), and Mason Swinney (Alabama). These additions provide depth and strength across multiple positions, further enhancing the team’s already formidable lineup. The Patriots will open their 2025 campaign at home on February 14 against North Dakota State. The schedule is challenging, featuring 14 games against teams that advanced to the postseason in 2024, including Louisiana, Louisiana Tech, LSU, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and Oral Roberts. As DBU enters its third season in Conference USA, the Patriots are coming off a strong year, having clinched the CUSA Tournament Championship after BASEBALL SEASON PREVIEW winning the league’s regular season title in their inaugural season in 2023. With a balanced mix of veteran leadership and promising newcomers, DBU seeks to make another run to the postseason in 2025. Grant Jay James Ellwanger
DBU REPORT 30 Students who were baptized include Evan Lupo, Ethan Michael, Patrick Banich, Carlos Hernandez, and Garrett McGee BAPTISM SERVICE AT THE POOL OF BETHESDA Despite the cool temperature in December, it was all smiles among the group of men who publicly gave testimony of their faith in Jesus Christ before an intimate crowd of friends, family, and supporters. DBU Men’s Soccer player and junior Nicolas Barros baptized five of his teammates at the new Pool of Bethesda, inspiring an entire campus as the exciting news spread via social media. The baptisms were the culmination of a movement of God that began this fall when the Soccer team chose 1 Corinthians 15:58 as their theme about remaining steadfast. “God has a never-changing, consistent love for us no matter what,” Jess Jobe, Men’s Soccer Head Coach, explained. “We used that to parallel the student-athlete experience and encouraged each other to be steadfast in our efforts to pursue the right thing. We talk about that a lot as a program—who we want to be as people and the type of program we want to be. Everyone on our team falls somewhere on that spectrum.” Barros spearheaded many spiritual conversations with his teammates throughout the season, often volunteering to lead prayer before and after training sessions. He even leads a Bible study called “More Than Champions” in Ford Village where he lives. “Nicolas has an incredible heart for Christ and for being able to steer every conversation to the Gospel somehow,” Jobe explained. “And so you’ll hear him on the bus. You’ll hear him at team dinners. You’ll hear him asking very intentional questions. He played a huge part in what happened.” Paul Hason, Assistant Coach, also helped lead the men on their spiritual journey, supporting Barros and others in their intentions to talk to their fellow players about Christ. As curiosity grew among the team about what it means to walk with Christ, the coaches issued a casual invitation to those who had questions to talk it out and eventually take the next step. Ultimately, five men accepted Christ as their Savior at the end of the season, and a plan was made to be baptized on campus at the newly opened Pool of Bethesda. Two other players, Cason Berg and Gavyn Rosales, decided to get baptized at their home church with their family. Others are open to pursuing a deeper relationship with God at different levels, and Coach Jobe looks forward to furthering those spiritual conversations with all the players this spring and fall. Barros’ mom and dad, who is a pastor in Brazil and a former professional soccer player, joined their son at the baptism event at the Pool of Bethesda. Pastor Barros shared his testimony in Portuguese as his son translated. Other students heard about the impromptu baptism service and helped lead an informal time of praise and worship as the sun set over the horizon. “I think there are lots of students who need prompting to take those next steps in their faith,” Coach Jobe said. “We were just blown away by God’s faithfulness. As coaches, we know is this is a priority for our athletic department—to be discipling our student athletes in this way and having these kinds of conversations. It was just really cool to see all that play out. It’s been a team effort.”
WINTER 2025 31 “It’s amazing that this happened on campus!” Coach Jobe
DBU REPORT 32 THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIVING IN 2024 THANK YOU for being a part of the DBU Family. MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR DBU GIVING DAY ON THURSDAY MAY 1, 2025!
WINTER 2025 33 1,044 FIRST TIME DONORS
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