Wayland Baptist University choir members, alumni and friends joined forces June 7, to present Gabriel Faure’s Requiem and Cantique de Jean Racine on the Ron Perelman Stage at Carnegie Hall. The performance was part of an afternoon concert that included other schools for part one, Wayland’s group and others for part two, and the symphonic ensemble with a guest violinist for part three. The portion featuring Wayland’s choral students and alumni also included students from Hughes Middle School in California, Liberty High School in Texas and the Saratoga Voices community choir in New York. Saratoga Voices director Noah Palmer conducted the Cantique piece, while Sarah Herrington, Wayland’s director of choral programs, conducted the Requiem, a seven-movement piece that also featured guest baritone and soprano solos. The large chorus was accompanied by the New England Symphonic Ensemble.

Tiffany Charles, director of undergraduate admissions at Houston Christian University was named Admissions Officer of the Year by the North American Coalition for Christian Admissions Professionals during the coalition’s annual conference May 28–30 on the HCU campus. Awardees have been nominated by their peers and colleagues, acknowledging their significant impact within their institutions and the broader Christian education community. Charles received the award from Willem de Ruijter, vice president of enrollment and marketing at Geneva College. Charles graduated Magna Cum Laude from Kaplan University with an associate’s degree in interdisciplinary studies. She received an undergraduate degree in secondary education with an emphasis in English and a Master of Business Administration degree from Grand Canyon University.

Howard Payne University announced a branding update for the university’s main logos and corresponding brand identity across campus departments. The new main logo features a prominent HP and new fonts, with an updated color palette that stays consistent with the school colors of old gold and navy blue. The athletic logo features an outlined HP in gold and the wording “Howard Payne Athletics.” Corresponding logos have been developed for each of the university’s athletic teams. The academic logo will be used for promotion and communication within the university’s schools and academic departments. It features a new shield with the Old Main Tower displayed in the center. The tower, a notable structure in the center of campus, is a replica of the entrance of Old Main—the first building built on campus in the late 1800s that stood for almost 100 years.

Buckner International announced several leadership promotions with Buckner Children and Family Services. Samela Macon was appointed as vice president and chief operating officer of Buckner Children and Family Services; Rocío López was promoted to associate vice president overseeing international operations; and Debbie Sceroler was promoted to associate vice president overseeing domestic operations. In Macon’s new role, she will develop domestic and international strategies to improve key performance indicators, drive innovation and operational efficiency, build and strengthen strategic partnerships and position Buckner for long-term operational excellence and scalability. With nearly 20 years of nonprofit experience and 15 years at Buckner, López will oversee strategic endeavors across all international operations in her new role. Sceroler—who has more than 25 years in child welfare, 23 of which have been at Buckner—will lead initiatives in all domestic programs for Buckner Children and Family Services as associate vice president.

Howard Payne University has announced two new programs, a Bachelor of Arts in worship ministry and an associate degree in general studies, beginning in the 2025 fall semester. Students earning a Bachelor of Arts in worship ministry will be trained in theology, music, leadership and ministry. The program will be a collaboration between the School of Christian Studies and the School of Education and Fine Arts. The associate degree in general studies program is designed to provide a broad, general program for personal enrichment. It will facilitate completion of a post-secondary degree and will prepare students for successful study toward a baccalaureate degree. The program will provide a direct pathway to the Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in general studies degree program at HPU. Courses may be selected from across academic disciplines to prepare for baccalaureate degrees, careers in specific industries or complete prerequisites for licensure/certificate programs.

Wayland Baptist University recognized Rhonda Dillard, assistant superintendent of human resources for Frenship Independent School District, with the Distinguished Alumni Award during the Lubbock campus’s commencement ceremony on June 7, at Southcrest Baptist Church. Dillard, a leader in Lubbock area public education, was honored for her decades-long commitment to excellence and servant leadership in education. Dillard began her journey in education 42 years ago as a teacher, later becoming a campus principal and ultimately rising to her current role. In 1999, she earned her Master of Education degree from Wayland. The Distinguished Alumni Award is one of the highest honors the university bestows. It celebrates alumni who exemplify Wayland’s mission by leading lives of impact and purpose grounded in Christian values.

A Hardin-Simmons University alumnus is making an impact on a national scale with the Department of Defense. Stephen Simmons, a 2006 political science and leadership studies graduate, has been appointed deputy assistant secretary of defense for military community and family policy. In his new role, Simmons will be responsible for establishing quality-of-life policies and programs for active-duty, National Guard and Reserve service members, their families and survivors worldwide. Simmons brings nearly two decades of leadership experience spanning military service, corporate operations and veteran advocacy to the role.

A team of students from East Texas Baptist University’s Baptist Student Ministry recently spent a week serving and evangelizing in the Pacific Northwest, partnering with Northwest Collegiate Ministry and Epic Life Church in Seattle, Wash. Even before landing, ministry already had begun. “God began using our team to spread the eternity-shaping message of the gospel,” when two ETBU students “had separate and highly engaged gospel conversations with individuals sitting beside them,” Dean of Spiritual Life David Griffin said. The team served Epic Life Church by helping clean a property gifted to the church for parking and community service use. The team also worshiped with Epic Life Church and had a backyard barbeque with church members. The team prayer-walked three area campuses: Shoreline, Edmonds and Everett Community Colleges and prayed for revival there and at ETBU. During the week, the team had the opportunity to have more than 40 gospel conversations, connecting people with Bible study leaders and pastors for future discussions.

Houston Christian University professor Christopher Hartwell’s debut film “Do No Harm,” a psychological medical thriller, screened on May 16 at the Cannes Film Festival along with a slate of films presented by Iris Indie Global. Hartwell, assistant professor of Cinema, Media Arts and Writing, described the festival as an unforgettable experience. The film follows a home-health nurse whose world unravels after a simple mistake turns fatal, trapping him in a web of systemic pressure, crushing expectations and the lies we tell to survive. During the festival, Hartwell and his team met international buyers, attended industry panels, and networked with filmmakers and distributors from across the globe. The team hopes the film finds a wide audience—one that resonates deeply with its central message: we all make mistakes, and every person is in need of grace. Hartwell and his production team is in conversations with a number of distributors and festivals in the United States and abroad to secure distribution for the film.

Stark College & Seminary and Annapolis Christian Academy will sign a strategic Memorandum of Understanding on June 12, allowing Annapolis juniors and seniors to earn accredited college credit through dual-credit courses in systematic theology and apologetics, while still completing their high-school curriculum. The agreement also opens a pathway for qualified students to pursue additional coursework in Stark’s Certificate in Ministry program.

The Southern Baptist Convention’s National Hispanic Baptist Network held its annual meeting ahead of the SBC’s annual meeting in Dallas. Dallas Baptist University’s Rudolph Gonzalez was honored for his ministry at the Celebración Hispana event.

Gary Cook and Charles Wade received the Texas Baptist Legacy Award during the annual Texas Baptists Legacy Day event at Independence Baptist Church near Brenham. Cook was president of Dallas Baptist University for 28 years, from 1988 to 2016, and has been chancellor of the university since then. While president of DBU, the university grew from 1,859 students in 1987 to 5,319 in 2015; net assets grew from $19.9 million to $171.5 million; and several new buildings were completed. Cook founded his DBU presidency on prayer and credits prayer for the growth of the university. In 2004, DBU trustees named a new academic division the Gary Cook Graduate School of Leadership. Before coming to DBU, Cook served 10 years in Baylor University’s administration, served on the Waco City Council and as Mayor Pro Tem, was pastor of First Baptist Church in McGregor and before that was senior adult minister at University Baptist Church in Fort Worth. Four current presidents of universities affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas served under and were mentored by Cook: Blair Blackburn at East Texas Baptist University, Eric Bruntmyer at Hardin-Simmons University, Cory Hines at Howard Payne University and Adam Wright at Dallas Baptist University. Wade was the pastor of First Baptist Church in Arlington from 1976 to 2000 and then served as executive director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas from 2000 to 2008. A key feature of his leadership was calling Texas Baptists to be the presence of Jesus in their communities. Wade was named pastor emeritus of First Baptist in Arlington in 2009, a title he still holds. Prior to 1976, Wade served churches in Oklahoma, West Germany and Texas. Independence Baptist Church is the oldest continuously serving Baptist church in Texas and a foundational part of Texas Baptist history.

Howard Payne University unveiled the new HPU Athletics Hall of Fame at the Brownwood Coliseum on May 17. HPU alumnus James Williamson, a member of the Hall of Fame inducted in 2018, gave the lead gift for the new wall of honor in the coliseum. Additional donors contributed to the project, which includes new zinc plates for each of the 143 Hall of Fame members, as well as a digital interactive display with photos and biographies for the athletes. The Brownwood Coliseum is the primary facility for HPU basketball and volleyball games. Additional events included a Hall of Fame brunch for current members and a banquet at the Brownwood Coliseum to induct three new members into the Athletics Hall of Fame: Lowell Bishop, track; James Hall, basketball; and Larry Nickell, administrator. The new Yellow Jacket Club was introduced, as a board to support athletics at HPU.

Baylor University, along with The Congregational Collective of San Antonio and Harvard Medical School, have received a three-year $1.76 million grant from the John Templeton Foundation for a public-private partnership called “Tapestry of Care: Strengthening Mental Health Provider and Faith Community Partnerships to Bridge Scientific Research and Practice.” A 2024 survey of church members conducted by The Congregational Collective revealed 77 percent of churchgoers are very likely to turn to their faith leaders during times of trouble, and 60 percent said they were very likely to look first to their faith leaders when experiencing depression, anxiety or other mental health issues. The Tapestry of Care will seek to equip congregations to become community hubs for mental health engagement, generate new knowledge that can equip churches to support their congregations, and reimagine upstream support services that can be delivered and sustained in community-based settings. Over the next three years, the initiative will engage with 18 pilot congregations in the greater San Antonio region to build their capacity to deliver psychosocial interventions and evidence-based treatments, establish bi-directional referral and cross-sector supports to assure efficacy and sustainability of care, and develop a framework to bridge the divide and build trust between mental health providers and faith communities.

Wayland Baptist University celebrated the success of 635 students achieving placement on academic honor rolls for the spring 2025 term. A total of 298 students were named to the President’s List, with 337 students making the Dean’s List. The President’s List recognizes students who completed at least 12 hours in a 16-week semester with a perfect 4.0 grade point average. The Dean’s List recognizes students who completed at least 12 hours in a single semester with a GPA of 3.5 or higher. View the full roster of students receiving honors listed by campus and honor achieved here.

East Texas Baptist University students experienced British history, global cultures and Christian service firsthand during a Global Study and Serve trip to London, England. Led by Associate Professor of History Jenny Hoover and Dean of the School of Christian Studies and Humanities Sandy Hoover, the weeklong trip combined educational exploration with ministry engagement. The group visited iconic landmarks, including Buckingham Palace and the British Museum. They also explored the World War II-era tunnels at Dover Castle and later visited Canterbury Cathedral, where they heard the choir sing during golden hour. Additionally, students participated in local ministry with Slough Baptist Church. After conversations with the pastor and a missionary, students joined in neighborhood cleanup efforts. “It wasn’t just about seeing London,” said junior Macy Holcomb. “It was about stepping into the lives of people here and serving.”

The Hardin-Simmons University College of Health Professions has earned national recognition in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 rankings, with its physician assistant graduate program ranked 93 out of 311 programs nationwide accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant. “This ranking is a testament to the community-based PA program offered at HSU,” said Tina Butler, program director and associate professor. “We’re a young program, having only graduated six cohorts, and this speaks volumes about the level of graduates entering the workforce from HSU.” The physician assistant program is designed to prepare graduates to step into clinical roles immediately upon passing the national board certification exam, the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam. Graduates are prepared to meet the increasing demand for primary care providers in Texas with an emphasis on a community-based approach in rural and underserved communities.

Houston Christian University’s Center for Christianity in Business announces the launch of the CCB Scholars Scholarship. Spearheaded by Ernest Liang, director of the Center for Christianity in Business, this new scholarship program offers more than just financial aid. It delivers a unique spiritual and professional development experience. The CCB Scholars Scholarship provides tuition assistance exclusively for students pursuing business degrees at HCU. Scholars will join the Fellows and Scholars Society, a student-led organization committed to spiritual formation, peer fellowship and mentoring from Christian business professionals. The inaugural cohort intends to accommodate up to 20 academically outstanding and spiritually committed students. Target recipients include students who attend Christian high schools and those who demonstrate a strong, active faith. For more information about the scholarship or to learn how to support the program, visit the webpage or contact Liang at eliang@HC.edu or (281) 649-3235 or Emily Butler, assistant dean of the Archie W. Dunham College of Business at ebutler@HC.edu or at 281-649-3369. 

The Hispanic Education initiative will host two upcoming events: The Higher Education Fair will offer leaders, parents and students from Texas Baptists churches opportunities to explore higher education opportunities. They can discoverTexas Baptist universities in the exhibit hall and attend workshops focused on college admissions and financial aid. Lunch will be provided. This event will be at Churchill Baptist Church in San Antonio on Oct. 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and is for all Texas Baptists. Additionally, the Called to Ministry Retreat event is where high school students and young adults who sense or have a call to ministry leadership can gather to receive encouragement, training and tools to grow in their calling and take the next steps in moving forward into their calling. Meals are provided during the event. The focus is on Hispanic students, but it is open to everyone. The retreat will be held at the Baptist University of the Américas in San Antonio, Dec. 5-6, beginning with dinner on Friday and ending Saturday afternoon. Additional information on the College Fair and Called to Ministry retreat is available here.

Stark College & Seminary hosted Darin Griffiths of STCH Ministries on their podcast The Stark Difference to talk about how God called him from farming into Christian counseling. Watch the episode here.

Retirement

David Williams, retiring after 25 years in ministry, the last five as pastor of First Baptist Church in San Augustine. He served nine years at First Baptist Church in Paducah, seven years at Seventh Street Baptist Church in Ballinger, and three years at Grace Baptist Church in Friona.

Houston Christian University earned top honors in two categories at the 2025 Crystal Awards held May 15. The university took home the winning award in the Advertising Photography category and was selected as a finalist in the Annual Report category. Each year, the Crystal Awards spotlight the individuals, agencies and organizations whose campaigns demonstrate creativity, strategic thinking and measurable success. HCU Creative Director Michael Tims submitted the winning photo, originally featured in the winter issue of The Pillars—HCU’s official news magazine—in a story highlighting HCU’s Grace Hopper scholarship recipients. Tims set out to capture a visually arresting image that would symbolize the integration of technology and identity in modern education. He brought the image to life by projecting lines of code across the face and body of Seth Kamata, a computer programming student and one of HCU’s inaugural Grace Hopper scholarship recipients, to immerse him in his field of study. HCU’s 2024 President’s Annual Report was selected as a finalist.

Eleven students and faculty from East Texas Baptist University’s Teague School of Nursing have returned from a Global Study and Serve trip to Guatemala, where they provided medical care to underserved communities in and around Antigua. The trip, in partnership with International Medical Relief, offered nursing students the opportunity to fulfill course service hours for Nursing as a Ministry while embracing the call to serve others through the love of Christ. Throughout the weeklong experience, students assisted with medical clinics in rural villages, providing preventative care, patient education, and treatment for acute and chronic illnesses. The team served more than 450 patients across multiple locations offering triage, basic hygiene education, prescription medications and vision screenings. In addition to their clinical work, the team immersed themselves in Guatemalan culture, including hiking the Pacaya volcano, exploring markets in Antigua and sampling local cuisine.

Dallas Baptist University has launched its “Stand Firm. Stand Out.” capital campaign, to elevate the growth and impact of the Don and Linda Carter School of Business and a new facility to house the Carter School of Business on DBU’s campus. The campaign aims to raise funds for the new building, along with student scholarships, program development and faculty support. The May 22 launch event welcomed students, faculty, staff, DBU’s board of trustees and various friends of the university. Including the $20 million lead gift announced in November 2024 from Linda Carter, her son, Ron Carter, and her daughter, Christi Carter Urschel, DBU has received more than $40 million to date in pledges and intentions toward the $60 million campaign goal. The Carters’ $20 million gift, the largest gift in DBU history, established the Don and Linda Carter School of Business at DBU. The facility will be approximately 55,000 square feet of education space across five levels—featuring student collaboration rooms, a simulated stock exchange trading floor, a fixed-seat, auditorium style lecture hall for events such as business symposia and guest speakers, a tiered lecture hall for day-to-day classroom use, student collaboration rooms and a faculty and staff suite of offices. The campaign offers naming opportunities, such as engraved bricks and named auditorium seats. These gifts help advance the mission of the Carter School of Business to integrate faith and learning across its undergraduate and graduate programs. Additional naming opportunities are available with a minimum investment of $50,000. Interested donors may contact DBU’s Office of Advancement at (214) 333-5168 or advancement@dbu.edu.

During its regular May meeting, the Baylor University board of regents approved the university’s 2025-26 operating budget, voted on board and committee leadership for the upcoming academic year and elected new at-large regents. They also approved infrastructure-related renovations to the Ferrell Center and two new master’s degree programs. The board approved a $995.8 million university operating budget for 2025-26, an increase of $33 million, or 3.4 percent, from last fiscal year. Regents approved $14.9 million for infrastructure and other renovations to Baylor’s Ferrell Center, which opened in 1988. The project is expected to focus on strategic deferred maintenance, including new building systems such as chillers, A/C units, retractable bleachers and LED fixtures in the main arena. In addition, renovations will provide updates to accommodate better the 10-time national champion Acrobatics and Tumbling program and Baylor Athletics Medicine. The Athletics Medicine Suite will be relocated and updated to include new hydrotherapy pools and coach and staff facilities. Construction is scheduled to begin in August with completion expected in April 2026. The board also approved two new master’s degree programs beginning in fall 2026: a hybrid Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy in the Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences and an online Master of Arts in Social, Nonprofit and Public Leadership in the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. This program will address complex challenges, such as poverty, within a framework shaped by Christian faith and values.

Access to mental health care in vast West Texas can feel out of reach. Randall Maurer and the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Hardin-Simmons University are using telehealth to change that. Through a partnership with Region 14 Education Service Center and support from the federal Rural Utilities Services grant, HSU is preparing to deliver mental health services to rural schools starting fall 2025. The initiative includes providing schools with telehealth equipment and building secure connections between counseling interns and students in need. The program also is partnering with a local pain clinic to support individuals managing chronic pain—a population that often experiences both physical and psychological distress. HSU therapist interns will provide both in-person and telehealth services using a research-based protocol developed by the program. At HSU’s on-campus Counseling Center, students already receive real-world experience using secure video technology for session recording and supervision. As the university finalizes its telehealth software and storage procedures, therapist interns soon will be delivering care under close faculty guidance. Training includes instruction in the ethics, procedures and limitations of telehealth across multiple courses.

May graduate Lexi Ewen recently received a bachelor’s degree from Howard Payne University in social work with a minor in cross-cultural ministry. Originally from Idalou, Ewen believes God called her to attend HPU. Social work is her passion, and it has grown over the years. “I love people, and I have a heart for those who are hurting,” she said. “Everyone needs to be shown love and to feel worthy, no matter their culture, background, race, ethnicity or gender.”Ewen’s passion for loving and helping others is based on John 13:14, where Jesus washes his disciples’ feet. She received two awards at the recent academic awards convocation—the Cross-Cultural Ministry Award from the School of Christian Studies, and the Outstanding Bachelor of Social Work Student of the Year award from the Department of Social Work. She plans to enroll in the Master of Social Work program at Angelo State University. Ewen intends to stay in Brownwood with her husband to work in the area as a social worker.

As East Texas Baptist University students packed up everything from their dorm rooms at the close of the semester, a new initiative invited them to give with purpose. Made New, a service project launched by students in the Service-Learning and Humanities class in partnership with the student organization Amigos Unidos, turned cast-off belongings into blessings for the broader East Texas community. Over four collection days, students donated gently used items that otherwise would have ended up in campus dumpsters. The donations were given to two local nonprofit organizations, Hope’s Closet and Treasures, which serve Marshall residents with compassion and dignity. The idea was sparked by assistant professor of Spanish Blanca Jenkins, who noted how quickly dumpsters filled during student move-out. With that observation and a class goal of lasting impact, students responded with a solution that met material needs, modeled environmental stewardship and strengthened community partnerships.

Houston Christian University has received a $5,000 donation from the Linda R. Dunham Dean’s Development Council, supporting the construction of the Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building. Carol Lavender, dean of the Linda R. Dunham School of Nursing, and members of the Dean’s Development Council, led by Jane Marmion, presented the check to HCU President Robert Sloan, May 8. The $60 million, 71,000-square-foot, multi-disciplinary facility will offer cutting-edge learning spaces, advanced laboratories and the latest technology in the fields of engineering, science and nursing. The Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building is slated to open in the fall of 2026.

Howard Payne University student Magaly Cervantes, biomedical science major from Brownwood, recently became the third HPU student accepted to the Joint Admission Medical Program, which helps prepare undergraduate students for medical school. Her internship this summer will take place at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. The Joint Admission Medical Program is a state-funded initiative involving a partnership of 68 undergraduate universities and 13 Texas medical schools. The program provides Texan students with academic and financial support through scholarships, summer internship experiences, dedicated mentoring and comprehensive preparation for the Medical College Admission Test. After graduation, Cervantes plans to attend medical school.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor recently announced three outstanding chemistry students for the 2024-2025 academic year. Shane Melick, a double major in chemistry and mathematics from Oro Valley, Ariz., was recognized as the American Institute of Chemists awardee. This award recognizes leadership ability, character, scholastic achievement and advancement potential in the chemical professions. It includes a one-year membership with benefits in the institute. The Outstanding Senior Chemistry Major Award, based on high scholastic achievement in chemistry and service to the department, was presented to Amber Dickey of Frisco. The Freshman Chemistry Achievement Award was presented to Landon J. Fortson, a chemistry major from Houston. This award is based on outstanding work in General Chemistry I and II.

A total of 119 Wayland Baptist University students received degrees during commencement exercises May 17. Wayland President Donna Hedgepath conferred degrees, assisted by Carole Harbison, secretary of the Wayland board of trustees. Cindy McClenagan, vice president of academic affairs, presented the candidates for graduation. Recognized as Highest Ranking Seniors were Dawson Jade Mailey of Brownfield, Benjamin Hagen Lübker of Nordby, Denmark, and David Snellgrove of Plainview. Seven students graduated Summa Cum Laude, five graduated Magna Cum Laude, and six students graduated Cum Laude. Degrees awarded included one doctoral degree, 23 master’s degrees, five accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s degrees, 89 bachelor’s degrees and one associate degree. Graduates hailed from 37 Texas cities and represented 14 other states and one U.S. territory. Twenty international students representing 14 countries were among the graduates.

Baylor University Provost Nancy Brickhouse announced David M. Szymanski has been selected as dean of Baylor’s nationally ranked Hankamer School of Business, effective May 27. Szymanski will succeed Sandeep Mazumder, who is set to become president of Berry College in Georgia on July 1. Szymanski previously served as president of the University of North Florida, dean of the University of Cincinnati Carl H. Lindner College of Business and on the faculty at the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University. A first-generation college graduate, Szymanski earned his B.A. in economics with honors at the University of North Carolina-Asheville, where he was a full scholarship student-athlete in basketball and tennis. He went on to earn an M.A. in economics from Vanderbilt University and his M.B.A. and Ph.D. in business administration from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

East Texas Baptist University President J. Blair Blackburn announced the launch of a comprehensive brand refresh. The updated brand reflects ETBU’s commitment to academic excellence, spiritual development and community impact while enhancing consistency and recognition across university communications. Central to the refresh is the introduction of the ETBU Shield. This new brand mark draws inspiration from the cupola atop the Great Commission Center in the heart of ETBU’s campus. The ETBU Shield serves as a symbol of faith, learning and tradition. Long-standing symbols such as the University Seal, ETBU Spirit logo and Texas Tiger logo will remain active and prominent, continuing to represent the university’s legacy in academics, athletics and student life. For more information about the ETBU Shield and brand guidelines, visit etbu.edu/branding.

Baylor University announced a significant gift from Harmon and Lea Kong of Southern California that created the Kong Family Endowed Presidential Fund for Student Care and the Kong Family Endowed Fund for Faculty Development. The funds give Baylor’s leadership the flexibility to meet current needs while providing enduring, dedicated resources to support long-term goals and initiatives for future generations of Baylor leaders. The Kong Family Endowed Presidential Fund for Student Care will be used at the discretion of Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone to provide strategic care for Baylor’s students. Such support can range from providing scholarships to help ensure a Baylor education is within reach for all students to awards that facilitate university initiatives focused on student success and well-being and provide hospitality for interaction between students and the president. The Kong Family Endowed Fund for Faculty Development will give Baylor Provost Nancy Brickhouse key resources to support and provide faculty development opportunities. Harmon Kong is the co-founder of Apriem Advisors, a wealth management firm based in Southern California serving multi-generational families. The Kongs previously supported Baylor University through a gift in 2019 that established an endowed Chair in Global Leadership within Baylor’s Diana R. Garland School of Social Work. They currently serve on the President’s Leadership Council and the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work board of advisers.

Ordination

Josh Campbell to the ministry at Crestview Baptist Church in Georgetown, where he is discipleship pastor.

Houston Christian University held its 2025 spring commencement ceremonies May 10, marking the 59th year degrees have been awarded to graduating students. The university presented diplomas to 484 graduates, bringing the number of students who have received degrees from HCU since the institution’s first commencement in 1967 to a total of 27,391 graduates. The graduates included the first class of graduates from HCU’s Houston Theological Seminary Doctor of Ministry programs in New Testament and in Faith and Culture.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor held commencement services for the spring 2025 semester at Crusader Stadium. During the ceremony, Kim Fikes was awarded the Honorary Doctorate of Humanities degree, the highest award the university can present to someone. Over the years, she and her late husband, James Fikes grew the family filling station business to more than 200 CEFCO convenience stores in four states and expanded from 12 to over 3,500 employees. Many in the UMHB community have benefited from the Fikes’ generosity. This was the university’s 169th graduating class, and an estimated 537 students were awarded degrees—including 401 baccalaureate degrees, 130 master’s degrees and six doctoral degrees. Three commissioning officers also participated in the graduation ceremony—Reagan Baker of McKinney, Gabriel Feliciano of Belton, and Maximilian Noriega of Belton. Will Kalfayan of Georgetown read the Scripture.

Wayland Baptist University honored its top academic students May 1, during the annual Celebration of Excellence ceremony. The ceremony recognized current members and graduating seniors in Wayland’s Honors Program, special scholar cohorts and students inducted into academic honor societies. The 2024-2025 Honors Program members are Marissa Armendariz, Elizabeth Berry, Koda Bigham, John Bray, Gabriella Chappa, Trinity Davis, Garrett DeYong, Noah Dyson, Arturo Flores, Narriah Gomez, Tyler Hartgrove, Kyson Hensarling, Seth Hernandez, Peyton North, Jazmin Ortega, Juanita Pardo, Anna Perez, Ariana Sanders, Mikayla Shires and Lily Taylor. Students in two distinguished scholar cohorts also were recognized, as were students inducted into or graduating from several academic honor societies.

Howard Payne University hosted commencement ceremonies and additional events on May 9 and 10 to celebrate graduates from August 2024, December 2024 and May 2025. HPU alumnus Tim Viertel, author and retired U.S. Secret Service deputy assistant director, addressed the graduates during two ceremonies on May 10. “Go out and do something significant, something extraordinary that only you are gifted to do,” Viertel urged. “Then, use the platform that God has given you to do something lasting, something of eternal significance.” Additionally, HPU held Chime Out on May 9, a tradition dating back to 1957. In the ceremony, graduates pass a chain of ivy to underclassmen walking partners as a symbol of the passing of authority, responsibility and privileges to those students who remain at HPU. Alli Harvey, a senior jurisprudence and Honors Academy major, gave a charge to the juniors. Diondray Parker, a junior youth ministry and kinesiology major, accepted the charge on behalf of the Junior Class. The ceremony concluded with the graduates walking through the Wilson Gate, symbolizing their send off from HPU to make a Kingdom-impact in the world.

Stark College & Seminary invites the community to celebrate its spring graduation ceremony May 16 at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Corpus Christi. The evening will honor more than 60 graduates from Stark’s undergraduate and graduate programs, each trained and equipped to serve faithfully in their churches and communities. The celebration also will include a recognition of Dana Moore, pastor of Second Baptist Church in Corpus Christi, who will be honored as Faculty of the Year for his faithful service.

East Texas Baptist University presented 218 graduates with degrees during its commencement ceremonies on May 10. During the ceremonies, 189 students received undergraduate degrees, and 29 received graduate degrees. The worship ceremony featured Scripture readings, praise and worship through song, prayers and blessings over the graduates. During the first ceremony, Warren Johnson, professor of Christian ministry, delivered the keynote address. Each semester, ETBU presents the President’s Award to a graduate who represents a Christian leader, scholar and servant within the campus and the local community. Mary Frances Ellis from Elysian Fields, who graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and finance, was named this semester’s recipient.

Dallas Baptist University students showed commitment to environmental stewardship during the second annual Creation Care/Green Faith Symposium and Tree Planting Ceremony, held in celebration of Earth Day. The event featured a panel discussion exploring the intersection of faith and environmental responsibility. Panelists included: Jim Lemons, moderator and professor of theological studies and leadership; Mark Bloom, professor of biology; Debra Hinson, professor of biology; Rob Lewis, assistant vice president for administrative affairs; Jack Sezer, recent DBU graduate and creation care advocate. The panel addressed key topics surrounding creation care from theological and scientific perspectives, inspiring attendees to consider how faith can inform sustainable living. Following the symposium, students gathered for a ceremonial planting of three fig trees in the newly designed Pool of Bethesda Prayer Garden. The day concluded with a time of reflection and worship.

Bailee Kitchen of Clovis, Calif., was recognized April 30, during East Texas Baptist University’s 78th annual Senior Girl Call-Out. Selected by a faculty and staff vote, the senior student “called out” each year is distinguished for her exemplary Christian character, social consciousness, personal poise, academic achievement and spiritual vision. Kitchen, a Christian Ministry major, has poured into the East Texas Baptist University community through her extensive campus involvement. During her time at ETBU, Kitchen has been recognized for both academic and spiritual leadership. A member of Macedonia Baptist Church in Marshall, Kitchen helps lead the children’s ministry and teaches a class for first through fourth graders. Following graduation, she will marry David Clair in June and continue serving at Macedonia Baptist while pursuing a Master of Divinity through B.H. Carroll Theological Seminary at ETBU.

BGCT Intercultural Ministries announced registration is now open for Camp Fusion 2025, to be held July 22-26 at Latham Springs Camp & Retreat Center in Aquilla. Camp Fusion offers spiritual formation and leadership experience for intercultural students—primarily from Asian and African Texas Baptist churches, though Brazilian Baptist students from Plano have joined in recent years. For questions about financial assistance, registration, schedules and programs, please click here. Registration closes June 30th.

Hardin-Simmons University’s Master of Physician Assistant program is partnering with Communities in Schools of the Big Country and Abilene Independent School District’s Clack Middle School to offer free physicals to more than 170 students this May. The initiative brought 70 girls on May 13 and will bring 100 boys on May 16 to the HSU campus to receive free physicals conducted by certified PA providers with support from HSU PA students and campus tours. The PA students, currently in their didactic training phase, are required to complete 50 hours of community service prior to graduation. HSU’s PA program—currently the smallest in Texas—recently was named one of the top 100 PA programs in the country by U.S. News & World Report. The program also leads both international and domestic medical mission trips, including partnerships with the disability ministry Joni & Friends.

Every summer, Baylor University students head out on mission trips around the world, putting what they’ve learned in the classroom to use serving others. In late April, Baylor sent these students off with a special student mission trip commissioning ceremony. Following the disciples’ example, Baylor representatives gathered to send the short-term missionaries off with prayer and encouragement (plus some treats to sweeten the celebration). Facilitated by Baylor Missions, Service and Public Life, as well as local churches and organizations, students with Baylor connections will demonstrate God’s love this summer on a dozen trips to places like Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and South Africa, in areas ranging from nursing to business to sports ministry. Last summer, Baylor became a full member partner in the Baptist World Alliance, which uses the month of May to celebrate missions and evangelism. Baylor is identifying how missions, academic and other relationships can be strengthened across the globe through BWA membership.

Howard Payne University’s Summer and Young Scholars annual academic summer camp for elementary age students is scheduled July 14-18, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the HPU campus. The registration fee for the program is $165 and includes tuition, a t-shirt, promotional items, daily snacks and supplies. T-shirts are only guaranteed to those who pre-register by June 27. The deadline for late registration is July 5. The Summer and Young Scholars week-long day camp programs are designed to provide intense, fun and academically stimulating camp programming for children entering grades K-6. The theme for this year’s programming is Camp Curiosity. Students in grades 1-3 will experience a rotation of classes in math, science, art and physical education. Students entering grades 4-6 will engage in STEM classes and physical education. Registration is online at www.hputx.edu/summerandyoungscholars.

Michael E. Young, professor of psychological sciences, graduate program director and former Graduate School faculty associate at Kansas State University, has been selected as vice provost and dean of the Baylor University Graduate School, effective Aug. 1. Young will lead the Baylor Graduate School’s student experience at the Christian Research 1 university while providing leadership and advancing the priorities of the Baylor in Deeds strategic plan. He also will contribute to national conversations around graduate education and research and collaborate with deans and the Office of Graduate Professional Education to enhance Baylor’s traditional (on-campus), online and hybrid professional programs. Young will succeed Larry Lyon, who will retire Aug. 1 after serving 27 years as vice provost and dean of the Graduate School and 50 years overall on the Baylor faculty.

Literacy ConneXus announced a new teaching manual release—Teaching English ConneXus ESL Training Manual: Equipping Churches to Love Their Neighbors Through English Ministry. For two decades, Literacy ConneXus has empowered Texas Baptist churches and other faith-based organizations to meet literacy needs in their communities through practical, Christ-centered outreach. Hundreds of congregations across Texas serve through English language learning, family literacy and adult basic education. One of the organization’s most effective tools is Teaching English ConneXus—a training program designed especially for churches who want to start or strengthen an English as a Second Language ministry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Literacy ConneXus revised and rebuilt the training to be fully online. Then, they adjusted to a hybrid format—combining online modules with engaging, in-person workshops. The new Teaching English ConneXus ESL Training Manual reflects the update and offers practical, research-informed strategies for ESL instruction; step-by-step guidance for starting or improving an ESL ministry; and reproducible handouts and classroom-ready activities designed for churches. The new manual is available in print through Amazon at https://a.co/d/8VvLuzo. Order a copy or contact the team for upcoming training opportunities.

Students in East Texas Baptist University’s worship music course recently completed a comprehensive research project examining the content of the most-sung worship songs in churches across the country. By analyzing the Christian Copyright Licensing International Top 100 songs for fall 2024, students explored what theological themes are shaping congregational worship today. The students used a qualitative content analysis method and grouped their research into five areas: figurative and romantic language, vertical versus horizontal worship, Trinitarian references, themes of social justice and lament, and gospel content. They found only a small number of songs used overtly romantic or sentimental language. A balanced mix of vertical (sung directly to God) and horizontal (sung about God) songs also was found. However, the research revealed a noticeable lack of Trinitarian language and a surprising absence of lament or themes of social justice—both of which are prevalent in Scripture. Perhaps most significantly, nearly half of the songs contained no explicit reference to the gospel story of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. The full student research article is available upon request. For more information about the Worship Studies program visit www.etbu.edu/worshipstudies.

The HPU Concert Choir presented “A Service of Evensong” on May 6, at St. John’s Anglican Church in Brownwood. The service of Evensong can be directly related to the canonical hours of prayer established many centuries ago by those in the monastic tradition. More directly, however, this service is attributed to Anglican reformer Thomas Cranmer (1489-1556), Archbishop of Canterbury, during the reign of Henry VIII. This reflective hour of worship is mostly sung and includes the majority of the liturgy that was established by Cranmer. The service of Evensong was first published in the English Book of Common Prayer in 1549. The service was officiated by the deacons and laity of St. John’s Church, under the leadership of Father Michael Mobley. The choir is under the direction of Christopher Rosborough, HPU’s associate professor of music, department chair and director of choral activities, and accompanied by Diane Deatherage, adjunct faculty for the School of Education and Fine Arts.

At Houston Christian University’s 2025 Honors Convocation on April 30, students and faculty were honored and celebrated for academic, spiritual and professional excellence. The President’s Award was given to Brooke Bigford, Ashley Borges, Eunice Martinez, Jacqueline Nguyen, Yennisse Sevilla, Jason Colon, Eric Luckett, Richard Marquez, Eleazar Rivas and Mason Robertson. To be considered for this award, a student must have earned a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA, have made significant contributions to HCU, show promise of representing the university well in the community after graduation, and demonstrate a passion for academic, spiritual and professional excellence. This year’s 2025 Mr. and Miss HCU winners were Eleazar Rivas and Yennisse Sevilla. These honors are awarded by the whole HCU campus community to two seniors who epitomize the ideal HCU student in character, service, spiritual life, leadership and scholarship.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor honored students Selah Cordova, Cade Elkins and Mallory Overton with the Gary and Diane Heavin Servant Leadership Award during the final chapel service of the semester. The award recognizes devotion to ministry and community service during the students’ four years of study at UMHB. The award is named for Mr. and Mrs. Gary Heavin of Waco, who established an endowment to fund this recognition annually. Cordova is a senior Christian Studies major from San Antonio, who attends Grace Bible Church in Killeen. Elkins is a senior social work major from Belton. He attends Grace Church Salado. Overton is a senior health science major from Houston, who attends Vista Community Church. UMHB will honor its 169th graduating class during a commencement ceremony at 7:30 p.m. on May 10 in Crusader Stadium on the UMHB campus. An estimated 537 students will be awarded degrees in the spring 2025 ceremony. A live stream of the ceremony will be available at umhb.edu/commencement.

Houston Christian University, in collaboration with KPRC 2 Community, hosted a successful blood drive April 29. The annual blood drive, held on HCU’s campus, resulted in the collection of 30 units of blood—enough to potentially save up to 90 lives, according to the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. Michael Iliopoulos, marketing manager for the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center, applauded the initiative and emphasized the importance of mobile blood drives in sustaining the regional supply. “We need a thousand blood donations every day, so we can’t rely solely on fixed donation sites,” Iliopoulos said. “University drives are especially important because young donors are eager to get involved and give back to their communities.” For more information on how to host a blood drive or to find a donation site near you, visit www.giveblood.org.

This year at NCAA College Nationals in Daytona Beach, Fla., four members of the Dallas Baptist University cheer team experienced a moment even bigger than competition—they were baptized in the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by their teammates, coaches and family. Ellie Gillespie, Reagan Drown, Kate Hopper and Makaylynn Santellan each shared their testimonies before stepping into the waters of baptism. The team chose Daytona Beach for this special moment because it marks the biggest event of their season, and because so many family members had traveled from across the country to be part of Nationals. Just before sunrise on Saturday morning, the team, families and coaches gathered on the beach. Each girl stood before the group one by one, sharing her story of how Christ had worked in her life, and chose a coach or family member to baptize them in the ocean waves. The morning was filled with hugs, tears and joyful celebrations. The weekend also brought championship victories for the DBU Cheer team. The Patriots were crowned National Champions in both the All-Girl Intermediate Division II and the Game Day Division II competitions, marking the program’s eighth national title.

Howard Payne University recently recognized four students at its annual Servant Leadership Awards Chapel for their servant leadership on campus and in the community. Those honored were Brylee Awbrey of Midland, Patricia Garibaybartolo of Nolanville, Luke Moss of Brownwood and Evangeline Skolaut of New Braunfels. Moss and Skolaut were each awarded the Howard Payne University Servant Leadership Award. Awbrey and Garibaybartolo were each presented the Dr. Nat Tracy Servant Leadership Award. Award recipients are selected from nominations made by HPU personnel and students. Established in 2007 by HPU through the generosity of the Moore Foundation and the Barney II Foundation, the HPU Servant Leadership Award recognizes exemplary junior-level students in the areas of leadership and service. The Dr. Nat Tracy Servant Leadership Award, designated for senior-level students, was established in 1998 to honor the life of the late Nat Tracy, a faculty member in HPU’s School of Christian Studies from 1950 to 1975.

Hardin-Simmons University received a $15,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Abilene to support the Dream-Makers Professional Development workshop for Abilene Independent School District teachers. The workshop, scheduled for June 9–12, on the HSU campus, is designed to provide professional development opportunities for early career AISD teachers who wish to enhance their knowledge of meeting diverse learners’ needs. “The Dream-Makers Professional Development program grew from a need we identified within the Abilene ISD community to support teachers, particularly those who are new to the profession,” said Renee Collins, associate dean of the Irvin School of Education at HSU. She said through conversations with staff and community members, “it became clear that there was a significant need to help our new teachers develop the skills necessary to meet the needs of all learners.” The four-day workshop will focus on curriculum, instruction and special education.

Wayland Baptist University celebrated students’ academic achievements at an awards chapel service held April 30. The ceremony recognized students from various academic schools and programs, with special emphasis on the Citizenship Awards and Freshman of the Year Awards. The Citizenship Award, the university’s highest honor, is based on Christian citizenship, academic excellence, diversity of interest, loyalty to American ideals, personal integrity and personal exemplification of the Wayland spirit. This award is presented to one graduating male and female. Wayland President Donna Hedgepath presented the award to this year’s recipients—Rosa Ramirez and Joshua Tucker. Jeffrey Vera, director of alumni relations and career services, presented the Rory Allgood Thomas Impact Scholarship to the Outstanding Freshman Girl, Emily Ackerman, and the Outstanding Freshman Boy, Jarrett Lynch. Cindy McClenagan, vice president of academic affairs, recognized students who were honored with awards in their respective academic schools.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor announced registration is now open for summer 2025 at the UMHB Arts Academy for participants of all ages and skill levels in music, theatre, visual arts and dance. Classes include instrumental and vocal lessons, visual art workshops, musical theatre, dance and early childhood groups. With expert instructors, supportive programs and a welcoming environment, the Arts Academy is a place to build confidence and learn new skills. Enrollment is limited, and classes fill up quickly. Explore class offerings and register today at Registration – Arts Academy or call 254-295-4686 for more information.

Mansfield Mayor Michael Evans was reelected to a third term Saturday, according to unofficial results. Evans, a past president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Mansfield, first was elected mayor of Mansfield in 2020. In a Facebook post Evans expressed appreciation for prayers, support and the people’s votes to re-elect him. Evans has served Mansfield in different capacities for 36 years. He was a Mansfield school board member from 2007 to 2017 and a Tarrant County College trustee from 2017 to 2021, the Fort Worth Star Telegram on Newsbreak reported.

Howard Payne University held a dedication ceremony and ribbon cuttings April 26 for the new Ben and Bertha Mieth Outdoor Pavilion and Woody and Miki Martin Volleyball Courts on the campus. The new facilities are located between Veda Hodge Hall and the J. Howard Hodge Bell Towers. Ben and the late Bertha Mieth gave the lead gift for the 8,700-square-foot pavilion. The couple were married for 71 years and devoted their lives to serving the Lord. BenMieth is the founder of International Commission, an organization that has reached millions for Christ since its founding in 1972. Key features of the pavilion include space for a gathering of 250 to 300 people; technology with 10 outdoor televisions and a 12-foot by 16-foot video wall; commercial grade kitchen with gas grill, sinks and refrigerators; a storage area; restrooms; and a serving area for food. Woody and Miki Martin gave the lead gift for the new sand volleyball courts connected to the pavilion. Miki Martin is the daughter of Ben and Bertha Mieth and played volleyball at HPU during her time as a student. The Martins are both alumni of HPU and retired educators. The three NCAA-regulation beach volleyball courts will be used for the launch of beach volleyball at HPU in the fall of 2025 and will be available for intramurals, student events and community gatherings.

Sebastian Balderas, a junior political science major at Wayland Baptist University, participated in Texas Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol in Austin on April 10. Accompanied by his advisor, Autumn Lass, Balderas presented his research project titled Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Leadership: Leading During Crisis and Reshaping American Governance for Years to Come. His presentation explored FDR’s influence on modern governance and was one of only a few selected for the statewide event. While there, Balderas learned he was accepted into the New Leadership Texas Internship, a summer program hosted by the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University. He will attend the program this June, where he will develop skills in leadership, civic engagement and public policy. Based on his research work, Balderas also was named the 2024–2025 Academic Champion for Wayland’s School of Behavioral and Social Sciences.

Hardin-Simmons University generated a $181 million regional economic impact to the state of Texas in 2024, according to the Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas. The report highlights the role higher education institutions like HSU play in driving the state’s economic growth. In total, Hardin-Simmons’ direct spending—by the institution, its employees, students and visitors—amounted to $97 million, with an additional $68 million generated through indirect and induced spending. Of the total, $16 million was generated by the 38 percent of alumni who remained in the region, while $21 million was contributed by the 87 percent of alumni who stayed in Texas. Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas institutions, including Hardin-Simmons, deliver high-quality education to more than 125,000 students annually. According to the report, Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas member institutions collectively contribute $17.2 billion annually to the state’s economy. This data highlights the role Texas Baptists and the Christian education system play “in driving economic development and equipping students with the skills they need to contribute to the workforce,” noted HSU President Eric Bruntmyer.

East Texas Baptist University’s Honors Chapel introduced ETBU’s newest academic honor, the 2 Timothy 4:7 Perseverance Award, designed to recognize students who have overcome significant setbacks during their college experience but have pressed on, persevered and attained the goal of their college degree. This year’s 2 Timothy 4:7 Perseverance Award was presented to Jeremy Lewis, a staff member in the ETBU Physical Operations Department. Lewis’s journey to graduation, nearly 20 years after beginning his college coursework, is a testament to his commitment and determination. Throughout his time at ETBU, Lewis has been known for his positive spirit, servant leadership and humble dedication to the university community. His story reflects the heart of ETBU’s mission to develop Christian servant leaders who pursue excellence with purpose and perseverance. The university recognized Lewis for his inspiring example of faithfulness and endurance to earn his bachelor’s degree. Academic excellence award winners included: Landon Kelley, Sydney Green, Cayden Adamson, Graycee Mosley, Joshua Sewell, Ruby Jane Luce, Heather Auvil, Jessica Kuhlmann and Hannah Jones. Diana Canenquez and De’Leon Jones earned the Priscilla and Aquila Thrive awards.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor announced the development of a new entry-level occupational therapy doctorate academic program. UMHB’s occupational therapy doctorate program will be a 28-month program, with the first cohort starting in the spring of 2026. The program offers expanded career opportunities and is a planned expansion within the university’s Mayborn College of Health Sciences to prepare students for careers in health care. The program expands the occupational therapy master’s program that began in 2020 and will allow students within the master’s program to choose an advanced pathway and receive a doctoral degree. The Mayborn College of Health Sciences aims to prepare approximately 1,300 undergraduate and graduate students annually to engage in inter-professional relationships to provide holistic healing of the mind, body and spirit of their patients.

Katie Alaniz and Charlotte Rodgers of Houston Christian University won two of the three awards given at the 2025 Texas Women in Higher Education Conference. Rodgers, director of academic operations, was awarded theconference’s Emerging Leader award. Earlier this year, Texas Women in Higher Education gave her a grant to support networking on campus, and she led a book study with Kristie Cerling, associate provost for academic affairs, to provide a space for discussion and empowerment among campus leaders. Alaniz was awarded the Contributions to TWHE award, which recognized her service, leadership and commitment to Texas Women in Higher Education’s mission. Alaniz helped expand the organization’s digital reach as website administrator, developed outreach materials and presented alongside HCU colleagues at four consecutive Texas Women in Higher Education conferences.

Two-time Houston Christian University alumnus Pablo Siboldi was named Aldine ISD’s Rookie Principal of the Year for his service at Wortham Elementary School, as he began his12th year as an educator in Aldine. Siboldi previously worked as a bilingual teacher for grades 1-5 in HISD, as assistant principal at Stephens Elementary School and Carroll Elementary School in Aldine ISD and has taught history and humanities courses for Houston Community College.

East Texas Baptist University will expand its support of local churches and the families who lead them through a new initiative: the ETBU Promise Scholarship for children of Texas Baptists/Baptist General Convention of Texas senior pastors. This scholarship provides a tuition-only award of up to $20,000 per year—totaling $80,000 over four years—to help the children of senior pastors pursue Christ-centered higher education at ETBU. As part of the university’s mission to equip servant leaders, the ETBU Promise Scholarship offers up to 50 awards to eligible high school seniors graduating in spring 2025. The scholarship covers tuition for up to eight semesters (or 120 credit hours), and recipients must enroll at ETBU beginning fall 2025. In addition to maintaining a 3.2 GPA, students must enroll full-time and live in on-campus housing, participate in at least one approved student organization, complete 12 hours of community service per semester through the Great Commission Center, and serve as an ETBU ambassador on campus and beyond. Eligible students must be dependents of currently serving Texas Baptists (BGCT) senior pastors, meet ETBU’s admissions requirements and submit the official scholarship application. To learn more or to apply, visit www.etbu.edu/BGCTPromise or contact the Office of Admissions at (903) 923-2000 or admissions@etbu.edu.

Two doctoral students who are researching how to apply Christian ethics to congregational life have been awarded scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year from the T.B. Maston Foundation. Sheila Anderson is a Doctor of Ministry student in Wake Forest University’s Divinity School, and Erica Whitaker is a Doctor of Philosophy student at the International Baptist Studies Center. Each will receive a $5,000 scholarship. The Maston Foundation, chartered in 1986, perpetuates the teaching and legacy of its namesake, a renowned professor of Christian ethics and Baptist champion of racial justice in the 20th century. The foundation awards scholarships to graduate students majoring in Christian ethics. Anderson is the interim staff attorney for the Maryland Center for Legal Assistance and an e-discovery attorney and consultant in private practice in Baltimore. She has been an attorney-adviser for the U.S. Social Security Administration. She was the chief business officer for Reid Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church in Glenn Dale, Md., and taught at the University of Baltimore School of Law. She expects to complete her Doctor of Ministry degree from Wake Forest in 2027. Whitaker is director of development at Baptist Seminary of Kentucky, where she also is a teaching professor of preaching, Christianity and culture, and associate director of the Institute for Black Church Studies. She has been an African American history instructor at Simmons College and the University of Kentucky. She is interim pastor at Mumfordville Presbyterian Church in Mumfordville, Ky., and previously was senior pastor at Buechel Park Baptist Church in Louisville, Ky. She earned an undergraduate degree from the University of North Texas, studied Clinical Pastoral Education in the Methodist Health System in Dallas, and earned a master’s degree from Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary. She expects to complete her Ph.D. degree from the International Baptist Studies Center in 2026. Applications for the 2026-27 Maston Foundation scholarships open this fall. To access the application form, click here.

Baylor University announced the recipients of the 2025 Baylor Alumni Awards. A celebration honoring this year’s recipients will be held on campus Oct. 30. This year’s Baylor Alumni Awards recipients are: Alumnus of the Year—Maj. Gen. Stephen G. Purdy Jr. of Arlington, Va., military deputy, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration, Washington, D.C.; Baylor University Young Alumna of the Year—Elizabeth“BB” Sanford of Dallas, a trial lawyer in employment-related legal matters with the Dallas-based Sanford Firm; Pro Ecclesia Medal of Service—Joel C. Gregory, emeritus professor of preaching at Truett Theological Seminary and president of Joel Gregory Ministries; Pro Texana Medal of Service—Ed Kinkeade, United States District Judge for the Northern District of Texas.

Hardin-Simmons University hosted a National Day of Prayer Breakfast April 30, a day before the annual national observance. Logsdon School of Theology Dean Jacob West quoted retired Texas Baptists’ Christian Life Commission Director Gus Reyes, who regularly reminded Texas Baptists they do not “pray the will of the donkey or the elephant, but the will of the Lamb.” In his devotional, West said praying creates community within families, among students and colleagues, and beyond one’s city, state and nation. “Whenever we wonder what we should do, we should hear the words of Jesus saying, ‘Pray then in this way,” West said, referring to Jesus teaching his disciples what is now called “The Lord’s Prayer.” Several representing HSU and various constituencies in Abilene offered prayers for different circles of influence. Pastor Richard Darden, senior pastor of Shining Star Fellowship Church in Abilene, prayed: “Help us as a people to turn our hearts towards righteousness, compassion and humility, honoring you in all that we do. Strengthen the foundations of truth and mercy across the breath of this great nation and heal the wounds that separate us from one another. … Moreover, we pray for our leaders to grow cold no longer in their love for you, but … possessing an unquenchable love for you. May they put confusion and division far away from them, may they depart from evil behaviors, and may they hold on tight to your truth as a faithful friend.” HSU graduate Givan Rhodes (2023) closed the prayer breakfast by praying from the Psalms.

Anniversary

Madison Hills Baptist Church in San Antonio (originally called El Dorado Baptist Mission) will celebrate 50 years on May 18. The celebration will begin with worship at 10:30 a.m. followed by a Year of Jubilee picnic catered by Bill Miller Bar-B-Que at noon.

Ordinations

Rigo Ascencio of Primera Iglesia Bautista in Lockney and Alex Tol of Primera Iglesia Baustista in Petersburg were ordained as deacons at Primera Iglesia Baustista Petersburg on April 27.

Houston Christian University’s Beta Beta Beta National Biology Honor Society chapter won several awards at the Beta Beta Beta South Central Regional Convention, held April 4–6 at the Mt. Lebanon Camp in Cedar Hill. Twelve HCU students attended the convention with Lisa Ellis, associate professor of biology, and Curtis Henderson, professor of biology and chair of biology, biochemistry and molecular biology, who co-sponsor HCU’s biology club and Iota Omicron chapter of Tri-Beta. The HCU chapter took home the top award at the convention, Outstanding Chapter of the Year for District II. Ellis, who also serves as the South-Central District II director, won Chapter Advisor of the Year. Sophia Andrade was awarded first place for her presentation on her research on evaluating how effective a chemotherapy was at killing leukemic cancer cells, which she conducted during her summer 2024 internship at MD Anderson Cancer Center in the Texas Medical Center. HCU Students Ray Cagumbay and Eduardo Lopez each won third place for their research presentations.

East Texas Baptist University celebrated the installation of the Lambda Iota Chapter of Pi Kappa Lambda, a national music honor society, within the Department of Music and Theatre Arts. The charter installation and induction ceremony took place April 7. Founded in 1918 at Northwestern University, Pi Kappa Lambda is one of the nation’s oldest honor societies devoted to the promotion of scholarly inquiry and artistic achievement in the field of music. The organization invites only students and faculty who demonstrate the highest levels of excellence in musicianship and scholarship to become members. ETBU inductees included student members Heather Auvil, Caden Perkins, Jackson Darby and Madison Queen. Faculty inductees were Douglas Lockard, dean, School of Communication and Performing Arts; Patrick Antinone, director of choral activities and assistant professor of music; and Nathan Phillips, chair, Department of Music and Theatre Arts, director of bands and assistant professor of music.

Curious about how emerging technologies—especially AI—are shaping the church today and in the future? Truett Theological Seminary, in partnership with Baylor University Libraries and the Baylor School of Engineering & Computer Science, invites Texas Baptists to engage in this crucial conversation at the AI and the Church Conference on May 5. RSVP now to attend this free event online or in-person.

Howard Payne University recently recognized four students at its annual Servant Leadership Awards chapel for their servant leadership on campus and in the community. Those honored were Brylee Awbrey of Midland; Patricia Garibaybartolo of Nolanville; Luke Moss of Brownwood; and Evangeline Skolaut of New Braunfels. Moss and Skolaut each received the Howard Payne University Servant Leadership Award. Awbrey and Garibaybartolo each were presented the Dr. Nat Tracy Servant Leadership Award. Award recipients are selected from nominations made by HPU personnel and students. Established in 2007 by HPU through the generosity of the Moore Foundation and the Barney II Foundation, the HPU Servant Leadership Award recognizes exemplary junior-level students in the areas of leadership and service. A $1,000 scholarship is provided to each recipient of the award. The Dr. Nat Tracy Servant Leadership Award, designated for senior-level students, was established in 1998 to honor the life of the late Dr. Nat Tracy, a faculty member in HPU’s School of Christian Studies from 1950 to 1975.

Wayland Baptist University, Lubbock, presents its annual Denim & Diamonds Scholarship Gala on May 13 at the Overton Hotel, located at 2322 Mac Davis Lane in Lubbock. This year’s event honors Noe and Irma Valles, generous community leaders and Wayland supporters. All proceeds from the gala go toward establishing the Noe & Irma Valles Endowed Scholarship for students attending Wayland’s Lubbock campus. The evening begins with a silent auction at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Guests are invited to wear Denim & Diamonds attire to enjoy a night of celebration and giving. To purchase tickets or learn more, please visit https://tinyurl.com/mr2ysucb.

Baylor University and McLennan Community College announced they will offer two new General Assembly training programs to learners interested in launching or growing tech career skills. The Python programming short course is a seven-week course with live sessions twice a week, along with self-paced learning that can be completed on students’ own schedules. Participants will have the opportunity to earn entry-level Python programmer certification and gain the skills necessary to launch a high-growth career in software engineering. The 12-week IT basics short course will consist of one weekly live session and asynchronous learning. The course is designed to help participants prepare to take the required exams to become A+ certified. General Assembly will partner with Baylor University and MCC on the course design, and manage admissions, program onboarding and post-program evaluation. To learn more and apply, visit the General Assembly website.

Thousands of people viewed the reenactment of the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s 86th annual Easter Pageant on April 16. A video is available to view on the UMHB Facebook page and at this link Easter Pageant 2025-Campus Activities. Each year, UMHB President Randy O’Rear selects a student to direct the pageant and two students to play the key roles of Mary and Jesus. The students who fulfill the two key roles are chosen based on their strong Christian faith and character. Banner Scarborough, a senior from Lubbock, portrayed Jesus, and Emily Huynh, a senior from Richardson, performed the role of Mary. Victoria Kuntz, a senior public relations major from Los Fresnos, served as this year’s pageant director.

Dallas Baptist University hosted the 10th annual Lion’s Den DFW Conference, fostering faith-driven entrepreneurship and impact investing. The April 9-10 event brought together investors, entrepreneurs and thought leaders committed to advancing God’s kingdom through transformative business ventures. Highlights included a keynote address by Nick Vujicic, a renowned motivational speaker and founder of Life Without Limbs, who spoke on “The Hope for Africa in the 21st Century.” Born without limbs, surviving a suicide attempt at age 10, and eventually discovering his purpose in Christ, Vujicic spoke about faith, identity and living with eternal purpose. He also spoke about financial literacy, entrepreneurship and a dream to mobilize 200 million Christians to give $2 a day to transform Africa. Henry Kaestner, co-founder of Sovereign’s Capital, led a session on “Why Invest in Africa,” emphasizing the importance of faith-aligned investments in emerging markets. Actress, producer and New York Times bestselling author Candace Cameron Bure presented the trophies to the pitch competition winners. She encouraged attendees to carry their convictions boldly into the workplace, no matter the setting.

Hardin-Simmons University hosted Revive25—a three-day, student-led event, on April 14-16. The event focused on uniting the campus community around Christ through worship, prayer and spiritual renewal. Revive25 centered around 24 continuous hours of prayer, paired with three nights of worship services that included preaching, prayer and live worship music. The final night concluded with baptisms.

As of April 9, three Baylor students face visa terminations, Baylor spokesperson Lori Fogleman told the Baylor Lariat. She said the students “have had their immigration status terminated in the government database known as SEVIS”—Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. Fogelman explained Baylor’s International Student and Scholar Services learned of the terminations during a routine records review. Neither the university nor the students were given advance notice of the change in status, a pattern being observed in universities around the state and more broadly around the country. She noted the university remains “strongly committed” to supporting international students as part of its commitment to fostering caring Christian community. “Baylor has not had ‘antisemitic rallies,’ and our international students are not terrorists or gang members. They came to one of America’s premier Christian universities to be formed as leaders in the world and in the church. … Stand up. Speak out. This is a moral moment,” Baylor professor Greg Garrett said in a social media post.

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor students unveiled their undergraduate and graduate research projects on April 8 during Watson Scholars’ Day. Sponsored by the UMHB Office of Research, Watson Scholars’ Day requires students to complete all the steps necessary to present at a conference—including identifying a topic, conducting research and ultimately explaining their findings publicly. Participants included 104 students and 15 faculty sponsors. AP Seminar students from Belton High School also attended the event to observe and take notes for their own upcoming presentations.

Houston Christian University held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building, made possible by a $20 million lead gift from Sherry and Jim Smith, the largest single donation received in HCU’s history. “This incredible new facility represents our steadfast dedication to preparing students for success in the evolving landscape of engineering, science and nursing,” said HCU President Robert Sloan. The $60 million, 71,000-square-foot, multi-disciplinary facility will offer cutting-edge learning spaces, advanced laboratories and the latest technology in the fields of engineering, science and nursing. Designed to foster collaboration and innovation, the state-of-the art structure will empower students with the practical skills and knowledge they need to thrive in some of the nation’s most in-demand industries. Houston Mayor John Whitmire spoke at the groundbreaking. The construction project is set to begin this spring and complete in fall 2026.

STCH Ministries released the first episode of its new Heal, Restore, Transform podcast. The podcast offers stories of hope, helpful resources and real conversations about faith and life. This podcast offers a space where faith meets real-life challenges, offering encouragement, wisdom and biblical truth. It’s designed to be a resource for counselors and a support for those seeking help. The first episode features Tim Williams and Darin Griffiths, who tackle breaking the stigma of mental health in the church. They explore how education, transparency and support can foster healing, along with practical ways churches can help. Listen now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. The next episode will release on April 28, and the topic is grief.

Howard Payne University’s Student Association of Social Work hosted its first social work alumni brunch on March 29 in the Newbury Family Welcome Center. The event was a time to build community with professionals in the fields of social work and criminal justice and to help students make new connections. The four speakers included Morgan Lacy, hospice social worker; JulieAnn Greenfield, faith-based and community engagement specialist; Leah Joiner, senior project manager for Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute; and Noah Acord, Brownwood police officer. The speakers provided students with advice about the value of self-care, how to navigate graduate school and the importance of support in helping professions.

Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem will be featured at the Wayland Baptist University’s International Choir and Wayland Singers’ spring concert at 7 p.m., April 26, in Harral Memorial Auditorium. This will be a special performance of the same work the choirs will perform June 7 at Carnegie Hall in New York City. In addition to the Wayland choral ensembles, the Carnegie choir in New York will include Wayland faculty, alumni and choral friends from across the country. The April 26 concert also will bring together these groups, featuring participants who live within driving distance. The concert will include two guest soloists and an organist—Paige Brown, soprano, and Ashley Prewett, baritone; and organist John Hollins, associate director of choral studies at Texas Tech University and organist and choirmaster at St. Paul’s-on-the-Plains Episcopal Church in Lubbock. The concert is free and open to the public. However, attendees are encouraged to make monetary donations to help offset costs associated with the Carnegie Hall project and associated travel expenses.

East Texas Baptist University hosted the 2025 East Texas Regional Phi Alpha Theta Conference on April 5. This annual gathering of student historians provided an opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students from across the region to present research and engage in scholarly discussions. During the conference luncheon, attendees heard from Taylor Weaver, ETBU reference and instructional services librarian and assistant professor of library science. The event also recognized outstanding student research.

In the spring of 1945, a group of Baylor students prayed for spiritual renewal for 90 straight days. Their prayers led to a movement that helped inspire ministries on campus and around the world, from the Journeyman mission program to the Passion Conferences. Last week, hundreds of Baylor students again gathered in Jesus’ name for FM72, an annual 72-hour on-campus prayer and worship event coordinated by Baylor’s Office of Spiritual Life in conjunction with local churches and campus ministries. The event took place at Fountain Mall, at the heart of campus. A prayer tent featured round-the-clock worship and prayer, and students gathered four straight nights, Sunday through Wednesday, for special worship services led by a variety of pastors and speakers. More than 30 Baylor students were baptized Wednesday night. “There’s something about learning how to pray that’s different,” said Charles Ramsey, associate chaplain and director for campus ministries and church connections at Baylor. “There’s something about lingering in prayer. … That is different, and it’s very special.”

The Baptist World Alliance is leading a 35-member delegation with representatives from eight countries to participate in the United Nations 4th Session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent this week. The international delegation will host multiple events as part of the BWA’s Flourishing Freedom Initiative, a multi-year focus on racial justice. In 2015, the United Nations adopted 17 sustainable development goals to provide “a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.” The BWA delegation will focus their advocacy on a call to add an 18th sustainable development goal focused on restorative racial justice.

Hundreds of students gathered inside a large, white tent at the heart of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor campus for the 26th annual spring revival, a three-day student-directed event. This year’s theme was “Leave and Follow.” Xavier Maryland, campus pastor at the Missouri City campus of Sugar Creek Baptist Church, was the featured speaker. Jarryd Foreman, a worship pastor at Austin Stone Community Church, and his band led worship. “The driving force behind Revival 2025 was a desire to see every member of our campus community posture their hearts with a willingness to leave everything and follow Jesus,” said UMHB’s dean of spiritual life and university chaplain Jason Palmer. A central question anchored Maryland’s messages: “What might happen if you said yes to God?” In addition to Maryland’s teaching and worship, students shared testimonies of how God is working in their lives. To watch recordings of the revival services, visit Revival—Spiritual Life.

East Texas Baptist University hosted the 10th anniversary presidential gala, celebrating a decade of leadership by J. Blair Blackburn as president of ETBU. Held on April 5 at the Rogers Spiritual Life Center, the gala brought together university leaders, alumni, faculty, staff, students and community members to honor God’s work through Blackburn’s leadership. The event raised more than $400,000 in support of ETBU student scholarships, continuing the university’s mission to invest in Christ-centered education and student success. Since Blackburn assumed the presidency in 2015, the university has experienced growth in enrollment, academic offerings, campus facilities and community enhancement. ETBU acquired B.H. Carroll Theological Seminary in June 2024, marking a historic milestone in the university’s commitment to graduate theological educational and ministry preparation.

Howard Payne University dedicated the new Bob Carter Athletic Park April 5. HPU alumnus Bob Carter and his wife, Tammy, gave the lead gift for the project. Bob Carter is a 1973 alumnus and CEO and founder of Lion Street insurance firm. The Carter Athletic Park will be used for intramural sports on campus, providing a beautiful spot within walking distance of the residence halls. Participants in the ceremony included HPU President Cory Hines; Nathan Penland, vice president for student experience; Kalie Lowrie, associate vice president for communications and alumni engagement; and HPU students Rylee Spencer and Wyatt Benoist. Following the dedication, a flag football tournament was held on the field. Other sports that will utilize the new facility include soccer, kickball and flag rugby.

Two student teams from Dallas Baptist University’s Carter School of Business soared to success at the National Digital Marketing Competition held at Baylor University, showcasing their talent, preparation and innovative thinking on a national stage. Competing against 29 teams from 21 universities across the country, both DBU teams—comprised of students studying marketing and entrepreneurship—advanced to the Final Four in the competitive Presentation Pro bracket. The student competitors included Jaylee Utash, Leah Soto, Abrynn Dennison, Layla Joseph, Courtney Canion, Zachary Kos, Baer Heck, John “JW” Altman, Matthew Mitchell and Peter Coniari. The national event welcomed participants from top institutions such as Florida State, Ohio State, the University of Florida, UT–Austin, Baylor University and many others. In individual events, Baer Heck secured 1st place in the Man vs. Machine Simulation, earning the top individual score in this competitive marketing challenge. Abrynn Dennison also claimed 1st place in the Viral Game (LinkedIn Edition)—a fast-paced, live Q&A event focused on LinkedIn strategy and best practices. Overall, DBU’s teams tied for 4th and 5th place out of the 29 competing teams.

Houston Christian University’s Center for Christianity in Business hosted its annual networking luncheon on April 4. Emily Wenger, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at Duke University, presented the keynote for the luncheon: “How Shall We Then Live? Christian Existence (and Resistance?) in the Age of Generative AI.” Wenger related her own experience working in government, higher ed and private sector research labs working on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. Her talk challenged Christians to engage AI cautiously, remembering the tool’s ease can obscure ethical concerns about how the tool was made and what results from its use. The use of AI is not morally neutral, because it will shape our creative capacities and perhaps distort our sense of what it means to be human, Wenger said. She called on Christians to be actively engaged as leaders in this space to prompt theological questions and to pursue developing applications that promote human flourishing. The Center for Christianity in Business is an educational and community outreach effort for HCU’s Archie W. Dunham College of Business that exercises the practical application of biblical values and principles to business affairs.

The Don A. Williams School of Education at Wayland Baptist University is hosting “Strong Schools & Strong Communities: Facts, Myths & What’s Next for Texas K-12” on April 25 at the Pete and Nelda Laney Student Activities Center on the university’s Plainview campus. The event begins with hors d’oeuvres at 5:30 p.m., followed by the presentation at 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are requested. To reserve a seat, call 806-291-1145. Amy Dodson, senior regional advocacy director for Raise Your Hand Texas, will be the featured speaker. She will discuss the importance of public education in Texas, highlighting innovative strategies, policy advocacy and community engagement that support strong schools and student success. Dodson joined Raise Your Hand Texas in 2019 after a 28-year career in education, serving as a teacher, administrator and professor in K-12 and higher education.

Lauren Daigle, a two-time Grammy, seven-time Billboard Music, four-time American Music and 12-time GMA Dove Award winner, is set to perform in concert at Baylor University’s Paul and Alejandra Foster Pavilion at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, in Waco. Daigle’s concert kicks off Baylor’s Family Weekend Sept. 12-13, which includes Saturday’s Baylor-Samford football game. Presale for Bear Foundation members and Baylor parents will begin Wednesday, April 9, at 10 a.m. Parents will receive an email with presale information late Tuesday afternoon and Bear Foundation members should look for an email around 9 a.m. Public sales will open Friday, April 11, at 10 a.m. at baylor.edu/fosterevents.

On April 16, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor will host its 86th annual Easter Pageant. There will be performances at 12:30 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. in front of Luther Memorial on the UMHB campus. All three performances will be free and open to the public. The pageant will be available live online on the UMHB Facebook page and at www.umhb.edu/live. The Easter pageant chronicles moments from the gospel story, including Christ’s triumphal entrance into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, and Christ’s trial by Pontius Pilate, crucifixion, death and resurrection. This event has become a tradition for many central Texas families and is expected to attract thousands of visitors. Seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Pageant organizers said the 5:30 p.m. show is usually the most popular, so visitors are encouraged to attend earlier performances if possible. Audiences are also encouraged to bring sunscreen, as umbrellas are prohibited.

Master of Fine Arts students from Houston Christian University collaborated with Houston muralists Bobby and Brenda Ramos to paint a new mural at the Astros Hall of Fame at Daikin Park. The work of HCU art students Hailey Harvey, Chloe Hudspeth, Lyndie Swanson and Delaney McRitchie Yohe and Professor Tiffany Bergeron, chair of HCU’s Department of Visual Arts, was unveiled on March 27, opening day of the Major League Baseball season. “This was a wonderful experience for our graduate students and such a special and memorable celebration, honoring the anniversary of the ballpark’s 25th year,” Bergeron said. In addition to a significant public exhibition of their own talents honed at HCU, these MFA Studio Art majors gained valuable techniques from the professional muralists through the design and production of the mural. “We learned so much about how to tackle a group mural of this scope, by learning what our strengths were, communicating through our processes, and being flexible with all the circumstances we were given—we truly learned how to work as one team,” Harvey reflected. The work of the HCU team and the mural’s reveal were covered in a news segment by the Houston NBC affiliate, KPRC.

From serving pancakes and driving vans on South Padre Island to touring the Stock Exchange in the heart of New York City, more than 150 Dallas Baptist University students were hard at work learning and serving across America during spring break. Sixteen students traveled to learn about leadership through the lives of the nation’s Founding Fathers in and around Washington, D.C. They visited monuments, connected with DBU alums and friends in D.C., and venturedto Colonial Williamsburg, Va. Twenty-two students journeyed to New York City to study finance, management and kinesiology. Students toured the New York Stock Exchange, talked with representatives at JP Morgan and visitedMadison Square Garden, Citi Field Stadium and Rockefeller Center. Each year, DBU partners with Swerve Church in Bushwick, Brooklyn, to serve alongside and learn from North American Mission Board church planters Danny and Melissa Torres. Students ministered to the Bushwick community, gained understanding of the transient, diverse community in Brooklyn, fostered relationships with Swerve Church leadership and members, and deepened their knowledge of urban church planting. Students painted a low-income housing unit, organized school supplies for a local elementary school, and distributed church invitations. They also engaged in meaningful conversations with residents, served pancakes and coffee outside the church, and hosted a community gathering for children and families. Other students experienced the integration of faith and learning on the Civil Rights Trip. These students at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral level journeyed through the South (Little Rock, Ark.; Memphis, Tenn.; Birmingham, Ala.; Montgomery, Ala.; Jackson, Miss.) to study the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Stops included the Rosa Parks Museum, the Civil Rights Memorial Museum and historic Tuskegee University. Students also visited the home of Booker T. Washington and the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. The DBU chapel worship team journeyed to Westcliffe, Colo., for their annual songwriting retreat. And, nearly 60 DBU students and staff members participated in Beach Reach on South Padre Island, with the Baptist Student Ministry this year.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor announced the development of a new anesthesiologist assistant academic program, launching in collaboration with Baylor Scott & White Health in 2026. The program will allow students to earn a Master of Science in Anesthesiology degree. Anesthesiologist assistants work under the direction of licensed anesthesiologists as part of the anesthesia care team to design and implement anesthesia care plans. UMHB will be the site of only the second anesthesiologist assistant program in Texas, and students will receive training at both UMHB and Baylor Scott & White Health facilities, enhancing educational offerings for students and building the pipeline of the healthcare workforce. UMHB’s Master of Science in Anesthesiology will be a 28-month program that hopes to admit its first cohort of 25 students in the fall of 2026. This academic program is a recent addition to the many health profession degrees offered within the university’s Mayborn College of Health Sciences. The college is comprised of three schools with a unified purpose of educating students in a rigorous academic setting. The Mayborn College of Health Sciences aims to prepare more than 1,300 undergraduate and graduate students to provide holistic healing of the mind, body and spirit of their patients.

During Howard Payne University’s spring break, several students traveled with various HPU programs. Ten HPU students and seven faculty and staff members traveled to Honduras for a mission trip, the biology department took students in the Global Studies in Biology class to London and Cambridge, and the Baptist Student Ministry took part inBeach Reach at South Padre Island. HPU teamed up with 61 Isaiah Ministries to send the group to Gracias, Honduras, and the village of Las Brisas. During the trip, students taught in the Abundant Life Christian School, led a soccer camp, worked at the Hunger Farm, shared testimonies at the local radio station and built relationships with people in Las Brisas all with one goal in mind: loving the people and sharing the gospel. The Department of Biology sent eight students and three faculty members to England. Their trip to London and Cambridge was inspired by the scientific history of the cities and the belief that experience can help students grow in their understanding of different cultures and the history of science. While on the trip, students explored the Natural History Museum, Kew Royal Botanic Gardens, Cambridge University and the Old Operating Theatre. HPU’s BSM sent two students and director Bryan Pate to Beach Reach to spread the gospel with students visiting South Padre Island for spring break. “It was an awesome experience to dive right into evangelism and the Father’s will,” said Nicole Griffin, senior psychology and Honors Academy major from Needville. “We prayed before and during, which reminded us that the Holy Spirit was the one empowering us to share the gospel.”

Wayland Baptist University’s Abraham Art Gallery is one of four galleries in the United States selected to host the American Watercolor Society 157th International Awards Exhibition. Open to the public through May 9, the exhibit features work by award-winning artists from the United States and around the world. The gallery is located on the atrium level of the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Learning Resources Center on the university’s Plainview campus. The exhibition features 40 works awarded top honors and painted with watercolor, acrylic and gouache. The range of styles includes abstract and nonrepresentational depictions of figures, still life, wildlife, architectural and industrial landscapes. Many of the works are available for sale to collectors. Catalogs of all awarded artworks for the exhibition are available at the gallery desk for a $15 donation that will go toward the Art Scholarship Fund. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. For more information or to schedule a group tour, call 806-291-3710.

Howard Payne University will host its annual Spring Family Reunion on April 5. The public is invited to join alumni, students and personnel for a day of fun on the campus, including music, games and food. Other events will include the dedication of the Bob Carter Athletic Park, Virtual 5K run/walk and Outdoor Vendor Market featuring handmade crafts and goods from local artisans. Admission to the event is free of charge, and no registration is necessary. The HPU Alumni Association Virtual 5K run/walk will begin at 9 a.m. at the Mabee University Center on the HPU campus. Registration is $40 per person and a portion will go to support student-focused events and scholarships. Individuals can participate from home, with other alumni and friends in their area or on the HPU campus. Registration is still open at www.hputx.edu/springfamilyreunion. The dedication of the Bob Carter Athletic Park will be held at 12:45 p.m. The new facility is home to HPU intramurals and is located across from the Doakie Day Art Center on Center Avenue. The Reunion Celebration will be from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the Mims Auditorium Pergola and Muse Mall and Plaza. Eleven student organizations and alumni chapters will have booths with food and games for all ages. A Student Welcome and Registration Months (SWARM) event also will be held in conjunction with the spring family reunion. Incoming students who have been accepted and made a deposit to attend HPU will have the opportunity to schedule classes, map out their academic journey with academic advisors, meet other incoming students and get connected on campus. Interested students can contact the Office of Admissions at visit@hputx.edu or 325-649-8020.

Hardin-Simmons University’s summer Speech Camp is expanding, thanks to a $3,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Abilene’s Future Fund. The grant allows HSU’s Communication Sciences and Disorders Department to introduce music therapy that helps children practice speech through rhythm, pitch and song. It also funds hippotherapy that uses horseback riding to improve speech development through rhythmic movement and sensory engagement. Hippotherapy enhances speech therapy by leveraging the rhythmic, repetitive movement of a horse to stimulate neurological activity. In a single 20-minute session, a horse takes approximately 3,000 steps, providing far more sensory input than a traditional speech therapy session could achieve in the same timeframe. The heightened sensory engagement improves attention, motivation, breath control, articulation and coordination, making speech therapy significantly more effective. When treating children with multiple needs, music can support verbal communication through song-based learning, prompt timely speech with rhythmic cues, and encourage variations in volume through dynamic vocal play. These innovative approaches offer fun, hands-on ways for children across the Big Country region to develop communication skills, expanding Speech Camp’s impact. Held each summer in June, Speech Camp serves 75 to 100 elementary-aged children from Abilene and surrounding areas, many of whom otherwise would not haveaccess to speech therapy over the summer.

East Texas Baptist University welcomed Julie V. Philley, president of the University of Texas at Tyler, as speaker for its March 31 chapel service. Philley described her personal life and experiences in numerous roles as a health care professional, researcher and educator. She emphasized how her path diverged from her initial plans and stressed the importance of embracing God’s guidance and being grateful for each moment and season in life. A native of East Texas, Philley was raised in Overton. She returned to the region in 2012, serving as assistant professor of medicine at the UT Health Science Center at Tyler, where she continued research into nontuberculous mycobacterial disease and bronchiectasis. Philley reflected on 2 Thessalonians during her address, highlighting the parallels between Paul’s encouragement to persevere through confusion and trials and her own unexpected twists in her career and personal faith journey. Just as Paul reassured the church at Thessalonica that God’s plan would unfold in his perfect timing, Philley reflected on how deviations from her original plans ultimately led her to fulfilling experiences aligned with God’s purpose. Following chapel, Philley joined students, faculty and staff for a luncheon. Students interested in health care professions had the opportunity to ask questions to gain deeper insight into her career path and the broader work UT Tyler’s School of Medicine is doing to equip future healthcare professionals in the East Texas region. In August 2023, ETBU partnered with the UT Tyler School of Medicine’s Early Assurance Program, known as “Pathways to Medicine.” The initiative prepares 40 students annually from regional colleges and universities for medical careers by providing clinical exposure and developing essential study skills. Up to 15 participants are admitted into the School of Medicine, fostering a pipeline of skilled physicians dedicated to serving East Texas communities.