Dallas-based nonprofit, Buckner International, celebrated the 25th anniversary of its largest humanitarian aid project, Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls, Sept. 14. The celebration event featured speakers, live music, family activities, a reception, a presentation of a proclamation by Gov. Greg Abbott and an immersive shoeless experience. The event drew around 140 people including Buckner leadership, representatives from local churches, businesses, volunteers and members of the community at large. Speakers included Albert Reyes, president and CEO of Buckner International; Shawn Spurrier, director of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls; Ron Harris, former KCBI general manager; and Natasha Potts, who received a pair of boots from a volunteer on a Buckner mission trip when she was living in a Russian orphanage at age 12. Beginning in 1999, Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls held its first community shoe drives in Dallas. Since then, Buckner has hosted more than 20,000 shoe drives across the country. Over the last 25 years, 5 million shoes have been collected by individuals, organizations and churches for Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls. All shoes and socks are sorted at the Buckner Humanitarian Aid Center in Dallas and then shipped out to vulnerable children domestically and in 86 countries around the globe.

On Sept. 16, Dallas Baptist University hosted a special ceremony to celebrate Rolando Rodriguez for 35 years of faithful service to the kingdom of God. Organized by Gus Reyes and Julio Guarneri, the ceremony honored Rodriguez in the presence of his close friends and family. Rodriguez currently serves as senior director of Texas Baptists en Español. He completed two graduate degrees at DBU: a Master of Arts in Christian Education in 2005 and a Master of Arts in Global Leadership in 2017. He and his wife, Angie, have three children.

Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary, in its 30th anniversary year, has recorded a record-breaking enrollment for the fall semester. Truett Seminary enrolled 409 students this term, a 4 percent increase over last year’s fall enrollment of 392. This marks the third consecutive year of enrollment growth for Truett. The previous enrollment record for the seminary was 406 students during the fall of 2008. The incoming class is 41 percent female and 40 percent Asian, Black and Latino or Latina. Additionally, 22 percent of Truett’s student body is now enrolled at one of the seminary’s extension campuses located in Houston or San Antonio or in an online degree program. Non-Baptiststudents are enrolling at Truett Seminary in increasing numbers, with more than half the entering class of 100 from a denomination other than Baptist. Truett’s current student body is comprised of 54 percent Baptists, 15 percent Methodists and 13 percent nondenominational, with the other 18 percent of students coming from 23 other Christian communions.

Howard Payne University began implementation of its 2024-2029 Quality Enhancement Plan with the start of the fall 2024 semester. Titled “Game Plan for Academic Achievement – GPA+: Academic Coaching for Jacket Success,” the plan is designed to help students build the skills they need to succeed in the classroom through HPU’s newly certified academic coaches. It was developed as part of the institution’s reaccreditation process with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The goal of the Quality Enhancement Plan is to help the most academically at-risk students be equipped to succeed by supporting GPA improvements, term-to-term student retention and persistence to graduation rates. HPU expects adopting an “academic coaching” model to increase the effectiveness of the university’s Center for Student Success. To offer academic coaching to students, three HPU staff members earned a certification as academic coaches from the Association of Coaching and Tutoring Professionals. The academic coaches are Wendy McNeeley, assistant vice president for student success; Jennifer McNiece, academic coach; and Mary Agboola, coordinator of graduate studies and special projects in academic affairs.

Students from East Texas Baptist University’s Teague School of Nursing recently were honored with a Polly Cargill Nursing Scholarship, provided by Jerry and Jack Cargill in partnership with ETBU. A total of 31 local nursing students were recognized during a Sept. 11 ceremony, with ETBU accounting for 22 of the recipients. The Cargill brothers created the Polly Cargill Nursing Scholarship in memory of their mother, Polly Cargill, to honor the exceptional nursing care she received at Good Shepherd Marshall Hospital. The scholarship aims to empower students in East Texas to become skilled, compassionate nurses while honoring Polly Cargill’s legacy. The ETBU nursing students honored were Emma Bevel, Hannah Blaha, Baylie Colston, Hayley Davis, Paige Grissom, Bryanne Izaguirre, Sarah Jones, Jessica Kuhlman, Julia Lamb, Abigail Lucas, Joseph Maique, Melissa Martinez-Chavez, Kaitlyn Moore, Abryana Odom, Avery Reid, Angela Sanchez, Kennedy Tucker, Christian Walbridge, Elizabeth Watkins, Hannah Wrinkle, Elizabeth Wynne and Ashlyn Wynne.

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s 9th annual Latino Fest is scheduled for Sept. 19. The Fiesta en la Calle event is hosted by UMHB’s Kingdom Diversity Office and Hispanic Student Association. This year’s event will celebrate the university’s recent designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution—a milestone indicating the institution has reached 25 percent Hispanic enrollment. The designation provides programs and initiatives to students annually, bringing together more than 700 participants from across the United States and Puerto Rico for workshops, networking opportunities and professional development. The Fiesta en la Calle will include dancing, food vendors, games, face painting and photo opportunities. The event will also feature special performances by Guzman Ballet Folklorico and Mariachi Arriago de America. “This event celebrates the diversity of UMHB’s student body,’ said Karla Gonzalez, UMHB Spanish professor and HSA sponsor. “It honors the Hispanic culture and history so our students can proudly embrace their heritage.”

Houston Christian University has received approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges for a new online master’s degree program in Data Science. The new degree program, slated to launch in Spring 2025, is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of data analysis, machine learning, statistical modeling and more. Through a combination of rigorous coursework and hands-on experience, students will develop the expertise to extract valuable insights from complex datasets and drive informed decision-making in various industries. The curriculum of the program covers a wide range of topics, including data visualization and storytelling, predictive analytics and modeling, big data technologies and platforms, ethical and legal considerations in data science and advanced programming languages. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including dedicated laboratories equipped with cutting-edge software and tools. They can engage with industry professionals through internships, guest lectures and networking events.

Bobby McCloud has been named Wayland Baptist University’s executive director of international program operations.He will focus primarily on further developing a program to bring international graduate students to Wayland campuses. The program already has brought students to Wayland’s San Antonio campus, and there are plans to implement the program at the university’s Phoenix, Ariz., campus, as well as another extension campus. Wayland President Donna Hedgepath said the program has the potential to help Wayland tremendously increase the university’s student population across campuses. A 2019 Wayland graduate with a Master of Business Administration degree, McCloud earned a Doctor of Education degree from University of Wyoming in 2023. Bringing years of operational and management experience, along with a financial services background, McCloud joined Wayland in 2015. He has served as director of development at Wayland’s Lubbock campus.

One of the biggest issues churches across Texas face currently is finding affordable property and liability insurance. As major carriers are exiting the Texas market, churches either have experienced policy nonrenewal or steep premium and deductible increases. The Baptist General Convention of Texas is exploring ways to help address the insurance crisis churches are facing. One solution Texas Baptists are investigating is forming a captive insurance pool for BGCT partner churches. Because of the unique nature of churches and nonprofits, often commercial insurance policies are not able to provide the kinds of coverage churches need at an affordable rate. The practice of forming captive insurance pools has proven beneficial for schools and other nonprofits. Texas Baptists still are in the exploratory phase of considering this option, and program approval would be subject to both Executive Board recommendation and an annual meeting vote. But if a captive insurance pool is deemed viable and approved as noted, startup would not be before the second quarter of 2025, at the earliest. Any church interested in participating in a survey should contact the local associational director of missions. Texas Baptists would like at least 25 percent of partnering churches to provide data for consideration. Churches that already are insured with a carrier but might be interested in this potential option are encouraged to participate in the survey. The more churches who can provide survey answers, the better for data building and insight.

Retirement:

Janelle O’Connell, dean of the College of Health Professions and professor of physical therapy, will retire from Hardin-Simmons University in May 2025 after 30 years. O’Connell joined Hardin-Simmons University as a founding member of the physical therapy department and was named program director in 1999.

Anniversaries:

Wayland Baptist University in San Antonio will celebrate 40 years of providing Christian education in San Antonio on Sept. 18.

Pioneer Drive Baptist Church in Abilene celebrates its 70th anniversary Sept. 22. John Whitten is senior pastor.

CORRECTION: The date Buckner International celebrated the 25th anniversary of Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls was corrected from Sept. 21 to Sept. 14.

Total enrollment for Hardin-Simmons University’s 2024-2025 academic year has increased to 1,665 students. This year, HSU saw an 8.5 percent increase in first-time freshmen. This growth, along with steady retention rates, has contributed to a 6 percent rise in students living on campus. The newly opened Prichard Hall, a suite-style residence hall with private bedrooms, has proven to be a popular option, reaching nearly full capacity of 163 students in its first year. Seventy students will join HSU’s new nursing program to launch in Spring 2025. HSU’s engineering program, now entering its second year, has nearly doubled its enrollment. Additionally, the College of Arts and Media, which moved into its own distinct college in Spring 2024, has seen enrollment grow by 48 percent in just a few months.

Howard Payne University recently began renovations on Veda Hodge Hall, the female residence hall on campus. The renovation project is estimated to cost $4 million. This year, $2 million in renovations will improve the east wing of the building. Female residents will occupy the west wing of the building while the renovations take place. Then, the remaining $2 million of the project will complete on the east side of the building during the 2025-2026 academic year. Veda Hodge Hall was built in 1955 and has been in continuous use on the campus for 69 years. Over the past five years, more than $16 million has been invested in renovations across campus and to athletic facilities.

As the start of the new semester approached, Residence Life leadership at Houston Christian University spent two weeks training resident assistants for their work and ministry. RAs learned about conflict management and resolution strategies as well as policies to be well-equipped to fulfill their duties. Beyond standard policies and procedures, RAs received training focused on their role as front-line disciple-makers, including training on how to share the gospel. “At HCU, we want to equip all of our student leaders by preparing them to share the gospel, so we prioritize training them,” said Nathan Mahand, HCU’s Baptist Student Ministries director. This year, HCU’s RAs also volunteered at the Houston Food Bank and helped box over 3,500 meals. Resident Director Jacob Elliot emphasized the importance of incorporating community service into training.

East Texas Baptist University held its annual convocation chapel service on Sept. 9, welcoming students, faculty and staff to Baker Chapel for a time of worship, prayer and dedication to officially launch the 2024-2025 academic year. The convocation featured a message from Fred Luter Jr., the first African American president of the Southern Baptist Convention and the senior pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church in New Orleans, La. During the service, ETBU honored Luter’s contributions to the cause of Christ by awarding him an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity degree. Convocation also included the annual dedication of ETBU’s undergraduate classes and concluded with the official pronouncement of the 2024-25 academic year by university President J. Blair Blackburn.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s chapter of Young Conservatives of Texas planned to plant 2,977 American flags at Luther Memorial on the UMHB campus to honor the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001. “While the majority of students here now did not witness the tragic events of 9/11, we still honor those who lost their lives on that day,” said Cassidy Schnoor, chairman of Young Conservatives of Texas at UMHB. “Our generation needs to learn about that day and continue our commitment to freedom.” This memorial is open to the public, and the community is invited to join in remembering those who perished and in paying tribute to the heroes who emerged.

The Mitchell Family Foundation Award inducted three Dallas Baptist University students into the Texas Business Hall of Fame for entrepreneurial endeavors and business brilliance. Jaret V. Grayson of Mobile, Ala. Grayson started Lone Star Sports, a marketing agency that helps high school and college athletes with exposure to recruitment and NIL opportunities, after one of his social media posts went viral in 2021. He has amassed over 200k followers across TikTok and Instagram in the last three years. Grayson graduated from DBU with a Bachelor of Business Studies in August 2024. Micah Harkless of Washington. Micah is the founder of two marketing agencies—Monastery Media and ParlorLens. Monastery Media is a referral-based agency that seeks to help companies drive growth, establish digital integrity and develop supercharged sales strategies. ParlorLens is tailored to tattoo artists and parlors, where they help increase bookings, provide professional creative media services, manage scheduling, and create engaging websites that encourage sales. Micah will graduate from DBU with a B.B.A. in entrepreneurship in 2025. Christopher Castle is a current graduate student at DBU pursuing an M.B.A. in marketing. Christopher served in the U.S. Air Force more than 20 years, focusing on repairing aircraft, which earned him several medals for his service and expertise. Christopher earned his bachelor’s degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. After retiring from the Air Force in 2022, Christopher combined his business knowledge with his passion for motors, classic cars and getting his hands dirty. He founded Built with Faith Motorsports to mentor others while creating a business from restoring classic cars.

Often praised as among the best child care centers in San Antonio, Baptist Temple Early Learning Center has raised their level of care. They recently received a Four-Star Texas Rising Star program rating (the highest) from the Texas Workforce Commission. This means they have been recognized as being above and beyond the strict minimum standards for licensed childcare facilities. “We are aiming for best practices,” said Baptist Temple Executive Pastor Jonathan Clark. “These include additional training for teachers and staff, optimizing the environment for children, and a focus on teacher/child interactions.” Director Corchelle Mabry and her staff performed well as they prepared for the evaluation. Mabry has only been director for a little more than a year, but she brought a clear vision of building on past successes to improve the ELC image as more learning center than daycare. Her 36 years of experience in childhood education suit her to the task. Generations have been served by the Early Learning Center. It is not unusual for someone who received care from ELC to return with their own children and find their teachers still here. Faith lessons are also part of the teaching, with age-appropriate lessons that focus on God as Father, creator and Lord of all and chapel services every Wednesday in each classroom. The ELC was established in 1970 to meet the growing need for child care in the community, as moms were entering the workforce in increasing numbers. In 2012, the ELC began accepting vouchers from Child Care Services. These scholarships are available to help working parents who make less than a living wage and those who are searching for work or attending school. This allowed the ELC to increase its level of service to the community. They also began accepting infants and offering after-school care, in response to community needs. The ELC continually expands its scope to fill unmet needs. Grants from the Charity Ball Association, the Baptist Mission Foundation, Baptist Health Foundation, HEB Tournament of Champions, fundraisers, local businesses and individual donors helped them build an accessible playground where children with disabilities and typical abilities can play together. It was the first of its kind in the Southside of San Antonio. Perhaps the biggest challenge came during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ELC retooled and retrained and remained open to serve the needs of parents who were essential workers. In the aftermath of COVID, many childcare centers failed to reopen, and it became difficult to find childcare workers. Grants from the Small Business Administration, the United Way and others helped them stay open and fill the gap.

Anniversaries

Pioneer Drive Baptist Church in Abilene celebrates its 70th anniversary Sept. 22. John Whitten is senior pastor.

Bob Ray celebrated 59 years of serving Fairy Baptist Church as their pastor, Sept. 8. Ray accepted the call to pastor his first and only church in 1965 and has remained faithful to this calling as he continues to serve Christ.

This summer, Dallas Baptist University sent a group of Ford Village students on a sightseeing/mission trip. A few weeks later, a group of female students traveled to Denia, Spain, to serve with Alfa y Omega. Alfa y Omega is one of the only Christian schools in Spain, and many unbelievers enroll in school and summer camps each year. During the Ford Village trip, the students explored Barcelona, Valencia, Calpe, Javea and Denia and shared a devotional with the volunteers at Alfa y Omega. The female students in the second group traveled to serve at Alfa y Omega for the entire week. Many kids who never have heard the gospel attend summer camps and programs similar to Vacation Bible School at the school. DBU’s group focused on spending time with the kids as they hosted an Olympic-themed camp with rotations in crafts, sports and Bible stories. Both groups visited DBU alumna Shelby Weatherly at Alfa y Omega. Weatherly, a 2018 and 2023 DBU graduate who previously served as the director of global missions at DBU, fell in love with Alfa y Omega during a trip to Spain as an undergraduate student. After graduation, she returned to Spain, where she met her future husband, Tyler.  After they married, the couple began working full-time at Alfa y Omega, where they now lead the school’s international Christian volunteer program. Shelby translated the story of Alfa y Omega for the DBU students, as one of the school’s directors told how it was founded by some of the first Christian missionaries in Spain.

Baptist Student Ministry student leaders from Houston Christian University gathered for a leadership retreat in partnership with student leaders from Students for Christ at the College of the Mainland in Galveston on Aug. 16 and 17. The partnership is part of Texas BSM’s “Reach the Campus, Reach the World” initiative, which points to nine strategic locations across the United States where students need to hear the gospel. The retreat, hosted by the Galveston BSM, was designed to foster spiritual and leadership development with sessions covering the gospel, evangelism and discipleship. Participants also received hands-on practice “tabling,” or gaining experience in effective outreaches that create opportunities for gospel conversations through free giveaways or experiences, like henna or stickers. Nathan Mahand, director of HCU’s BSM, said: “When we get everyone together for a retreat like this, it is like a family reunion at the start of the semester. We partner with strategic locations in order to help foster growth and a sense of Christian community. Our hope is that everyone would understand that what God is up to is bigger than what is happening on our campus.”

Although the closest beach is 672 miles away, Wayland Baptist University’s Plainview campus celebrated National Beach Day, Aug. 30. The university soon will have a competition-ready “beach,” where the Pioneers will compete in their newest sport. In June, WBU Athletics announced the addition of women’s beach volleyball. The inaugural season will be spring 2025. “We are excited to be adding women’s beach volleyball,” said Athletic Director Jim Giacomazzi, who will coach the sport. “We look forward to competing in the spring season, and we expect to compete right away.”

Howard Payne University will host Homeschool Day on Sept. 18. This preview day will target homeschool students and their families for an opportunity to visit campus and learn more about all aspects of the HPU student experience. “We have seen an increase in the interest among homeschoolers over the last year,” said Megan Proctor, transfer admission counselor, who homeschooled her children and currently has two daughters attending HPU. Check-in on Sept. 18 will be held outside of Grace Chapel at 8:45 a.m. The schedule for the day includes a welcome session where families will hear from members of the Admissions Team and an academic panel, an HPU chapel service, a campus tour and lunch in the dining hall. After lunch, preview students will be able to sit in on a class, while parents gather with Proctor for a workshop entitled, “College how-to’s from a homeschool mom, turned university admission counselor.” Parents will learn about high school graduation requirements, scholarship ideas, when to start applying and other tips on how to prepare for college. Any prospective student is eligible to receive a $1,000 scholarship on the Yellow Jacket Preview Day if he or she brings a friend and applies for enrollment in spring or fall 2025 while on campus. Additional preview days will be held on Oct. 19 and Nov. 25.

Baylor University launched its new institutional television commercial for 2024-2025, which showcases the authentic Baylor experience and supports one of the university’s fastest-rising graduates in the entertainment industry. The commercial features the beauty of the Baylor campus and the vibrancy of the Baylor student experience. Enhanced by the soundtrack of Waco-based Christian recording artist, songwriter and producer, Forrest Frank—whose original song “Never Get Used to This” features JVKE—the university’s ad lays claim to “vibiest” institutional commercial this fall. The commercial made its TV debut at halftime in Baylor football’s season opener against Tarleton State at McLane Stadium, Aug. 31 as part of the ESPN+ broadcast of the game. With faith-forward lyrics that include “See yourblessings every day, Thankful that your kingdom’s on the way,” and “From the mornin’ to the evenin’ I could sing yourpraise all day,” Frank provides testimony to Baylor’s student experience being grounded in its Christian mission—to prepare Baylor graduates to lead and serve around the world. Amid a sold-out national tour promoting the August release of his debut Christian album “Child of God,” Frank has risen to international fame. Previously touring and performing as a member of the viral hit-producing duo, Surfaces, Frank followed his calling to produce a Christian album that would resonate with and inspire young people to know the love of Christ. “Child of God” hit the top of the album charts—not just for Christian music—but in the No. 1 spot on iTunes across all genres within days of its release.

Anniversary

First Baptist Church in Tow is celebrating 170 years of faith, hope and love, Oct. 12 and 13. Ed Walker is pastor. The celebration will include music, fellowship and devotionals from The Cherrys, Mike Holster, Richard Ray and Talon Keeney and Stacy Nobles. Festivities will begin at 3 p.m. on Saturday—with a sandwich dinner at 6 p.m., followed by continued music and devotionals from 6:45 until 8:45 p.m. Sunday events will include guest speakers and take place from 10 a.m. until noon, with lunch and cake with punch to follow. All activities will be held at 16529 R.R. 2241 in Tow in Llano County.

Houston Christian University’s bachelor’s degree programs in Cyber Engineering and Electrical Engineering have been accredited by the engineering accreditation commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, and its bachelor’s degree in Computer Science has been accredited by the computing accreditation commission of ABET. ABET is the global accreditor of college and university programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering and engineering technology. ABET accreditation reviews look at program curricula, faculty, facilities and institutional support and are conducted by teams of highly skilled professionals from industry, academia and government, with expertise in the ABET disciplines. “HCU now has the only ABET-accredited Cyber Engineering degree in the state of Texas,” said Katie Evans, dean of HCU’s College of Science and Engineering.

Construction has begun on the Howard Payne University campus for a new 8,700-square-foot outdoor pavilion and three sand volleyball courts. The $1.8 million project is located between Veda Hodge Hall and the J. Howard Hodge Bell Towers. This initiative seeks to improve student experience, attract and retain students and provide additional community spaces for both the HPU family and the Brown County area. Brasher & Co., a local outdoor specialist company, will complete the project. Key features of the new pavilion include space for 250 to 300 people; state-of-the-art technology with 10 outdoor televisions and a 12×16-foot video wall; commercial grade kitchen with a gas grill, sinks and refrigerators; storage and restrooms; and a serving area for food. The video package will allow student and community groups to host movie nights, stream HPU athletic competitions and host large watch parties. The three NCAA-regulation beach volleyball courts will be used to launch beach volleyball at HPU in the fall of 2025, with competition beginning in the spring of 2026. The courts also will be available for intramurals, student events and community gatherings. This project is one of several campus improvements planned for the upcoming academic year. Recently completed campus projects include renovations to a microbiology lab, new seating in the HPU Theatre, several classroom renovations in the Newman Academic Building and the new Bob Carter Athletic Park for intramurals.

After a summer filled with work, travel and service, students returned to the Hill at East Texas Baptist University for the August mini-term, move-in day, Tiger Camp and the official start of the 2024-2025 academic year on Aug. 19. Continuing with tradition, the entire ETBU community, including faculty, staff and students, gathered outside campus residence halls on move-in day to lend a hand to incoming freshmen and new transfer students. Their assistance in transporting moving boxes, mini-fridges and dorm essentials ensured a smooth and welcoming transition for new students and their families. Once first-year Tigers settled into their new campus homes, they dove into the vibrant life at ETBU during Tiger Camp, the university’s annual welcome week tradition. The three-day event, filled with outdoor games, fellowship and informative sessions, helps students connect with their new living and learning community—making the transition to college life fun and engaging. The campus community gathered Sunday evening for fellowship and ice cream at the annual “Chill on the Hill.” On Monday morning, ETBU alumnus and pastor of First Baptist Church in Haughton, La., Gevan Spinney challenged the campus community to: “Let go of your past. Because of God’s grace, we can all have a seat at the king’s table,” at the first chapel service of the semester.

Donna Hedgepath, president of Wayland Baptist University, brought her “Better Together” message to the quarterly meeting of the Lubbock Area Baptist Association, Aug. 26. Hedgepath, the first female to serve as president of a university in the South Plains/Panhandle region, hosted the gathering of primarily Baptist ministers in United Supermarkets Conference Center on Wayland’s Lubbock campus. Noting there has been a “whirlwind of activity” since her arrival in July, the new president detailed how God’s hand was at work to bring her from Campbellsville University in Kentucky to Wayland. Hedgepath noted the needs of Wayland: “In order to really tackle that financially, and just logistically, we’ve got to rally and unify,” she said. “And the only way we can do that is to have folks come together.” The president spoke of Wayland’s future, noting the largest resident class at the Plainview campus since 2018 and the excitement she witnessed while going through Wayland’s Koinonia new student orientation as “a freshman this year.” Noting that 23 of Wayland’s football players have given their lives to Christ in recent days, she said, “I’m going to end by asking you to pray for our students, because one thing that Pete and I love is students.”

Retirements

Michael Monhollon, associate provost and chief data officer at Hardin-Simmons University has announced his retirement, effective May 31, 2025, after more than four decades of distinguished service as a lawyer, professor and academic leader. Monhollon has been with HSU since 1988. After retirement, Monhollon plans to focus on his writing career and spend more time with family in Palmetto, Fla.

After 21 years of service at Heart of Texas Baptist Camp, Tom Dunn will retire as maintenance and facilities director. He and his wife, Mary, will move back to their home in Cross Plains, where they have many friends. Reportedly, helikes to say he has been “the shepherd of over 100 toilets.” His presence at Heart of Texas will be missed. A “come-and-go” retirement party will take place at the camp, Aug. 31 from 2-4 p.m., or join the virtual retirement party on Facebook here.  The virtual event runs until Aug. 31, where comments expressing gratitude for his service may be shared.

The East Texas Baptist University bass fishing team traveled to Soldotna, Alaska, as part of ETBU’s Tiger Athletic Mission Experience. This trip marks the 21st mission initiative for the university’s athletic department and the second for the Tiger bass fishing team, following their 2018 trip to the Amazon River in Brazil. The 16-member team traveled from Dallas to Anchorage with a stop in Seattle before a three-hour drive to Soldotna. They arrived at First Baptist Church in Soldotna just before midnight, ready to begin their week of service. Junior Brett Jolley led a Sunday School lesson, and senior Cade Nettles preached during the main service at First Baptist Church in Soldotna. After church, the team spent the afternoon fishing in a local river and caught 37 salmon. Throughout the week, they served two ministries, Solid Rock Bible Camp and First Baptist Church in Soldotna. The Tigers spent time splitting wood and painting at the youth camp, which uses upwards of 150,000 pounds of firewood each winter. ETBU partnered with another mission team from Michigan, which was building a teaching facility from the ground up, painting all of the siding for the project. The team also focused on rebuilding the boardwalk at First Baptist Church of Soldotna. During the trip, the team had the opportunity to fish for salmon on the Kenai River, where they fostered connections with local anglers.

Ninety-seven students and more than a dozen faculty and staff at Houston Christian University participated in the Aug. 4–6 Kaleō student leadership and discipleship retreat. The retreat brings together key student leaders to provide a biblical vision for their calling to leadership on campus and equips them with professional development in essential leadership skills. Xavier Maryland, campus pastor of Sugar Creek Baptist Church in Missouri City, preached in the four plenary sessions, and HCU leaders provided workshops on time management, handling difficult conversations constructively and building a leadership development pipeline. Student leaders also engaged in discipleship-focused small groups led by HCU faculty and staff throughout the retreat.

With the 2024 Summer Olympics complete, Baylor Bears are coming home from Paris with a school-record four medals—earned by four different Olympians—continuing Baylor’s long history of Olympic excellence. Former Baylor men’s tennis standout John Peers got things started for Baylor, winning gold for his native Australia in men’s doubles. Appearing in his third Olympics, Peers won his second medal—having won bronze in mixed doubles in Tokyo—by sweeping through this year’s Olympic rounds. Also appearing in her third Olympics, Brittney Griner—who led the Baylor women’s basketball team to the 2012 national championship—won her third Olympic gold with women’s basketball—extending the Team USA run to eight straight golds. Griner joins Michael Johnson and Jeremy Wariner as the only Bears to win three or more Olympic gold medals. Former Baylor volleyball all-American Avery Skinner and the U.S. women’s volleyball team won silver, and Kristy Wallace and the Australian women’s basketball team won bronze. Baylor’s two gold medals were more than 166 of the 206 participating countries in this year’s Olympics, and their four total medals would have ranked in the top third of all countries for 2024. And that doesn’t include the 10 medals (five gold, three silver, two bronze) coached by Baylor track and field head coach Michael Ford in his role as Team USA’s men’s sprints/hurdles coach. All-time, Baylor athletes now have won 20 total medals (14 gold, four silver, and two bronze) dating back to 1904—more than 85 countries.

A $1 million gift to update Wayland Baptist University’s multimedia facilities has moved the institution closer to reaching the $18 million goal of the Thrive Campaign. The gift from Ben and Bertha Mieth pushes Wayland’s Thrive Campaign past the $17 million mark, while benefiting students seeking careers in multimedia, sports production, media-enhanced teaching and media ministry. The Mieths serve as campaign chairs and previously provided a $2.5 million gift to update School of Nursing facilities and equipment at Wayland’s San Antonio campus. Ray Rush, assistant professor of communications and media studies, said the gift primarily will be used to update the production control area, what he describes as the “heart” of media production—video production, cinema production, audio livestreaming, podcasting, and social media content production. Rush also noted it will enhance the equipment in Harral Auditorium for chapel, based on equipment commonly used in churches for house-of-worship production.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor celebrated the beginning of the school year and welcomed approximately 700 new freshmen to campus during its 179th Fall Convocation service on Aug. 14. This year, more than 3,300 students aged 16 to 67 are attending classes at UMHB. UMHB President Randy O’Rear presented the guest speaker, Shirley V. Hoogstra, president of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities, with a Distinguished Service Award for her many years of service to Christian higher education. Hoogstra spoke about God’s work in her life. She encouraged students to “keep both eyes open” as they begin their academic journey at UMHB.

Texans on Mission disaster relief volunteers completed their deployment after Hurricane Beryl on Aug. 15. The Texans on Mission crews and their ministry partners contributed more than 15,500 volunteer hours to the effort, completing 212 chainsaw jobs and logging 754 heavy-equipment hours. Seven remaining chainsaw jobs will be completed by local volunteers at First Baptist Church in Brazoria. Disaster relief teams prepared about 3,800 meals for volunteers and the public and completed more than 30 temporary roof jobs. Volunteers with the shower and laundry units made available more than 1,400 showers for volunteers and 25 for the public, and they washed and dried more than 827 loads of laundry for volunteers and more than 300 for the public. Texans on Mission distributed 178 Bibles, made about 400 ministry contacts, presented the gospel to 44 people, and recorded 14 professions of faith in Christ.

Among the many visitors to the Hardin-Simmons University campus, service dogs often can be seen mixed in with students and faculty. While not permanent residents, these canine guests are there to learn and grow just like their student counterparts. One such dog, a gentle golden lab known as Parlay, spends her mornings tucked away in Sandefer Memorial with her handlers, Tammi Outlaw and Gracie Carroll. Parlay belongs to Canine Companions, an organization dedicated to the training and well-being of service dogs across the United States. She came to HSU when Outlaw and Carroll, of the HSU Registrar and Advising Offices, applied together for the chance to foster a puppy from Canine Companions. The goal of Canine Companions is to allow their service dogs to be fostered for 16 months by volunteers who will expose them to as many people, places and things as possible. By spending time on campus, Parlay is exposed to experiences that set her up to succeed once she moves on to proper training and, eventually, serving a person in need.

Three of the eight young adults the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty introduced as the 2024 class of BJC Fellows have Baylor University ties. Leigh Curl-Dove, a graduate of Baylor University and Duke Divinity School, is pastor of Seattle First Baptist Church in Seattle, Wash. Brittany Washington, a graduate of Baylor University and Texas Christian University, is a clinical counselor and outreach specialist for BIPOC mental health promotion at Harmony Community Development Corporation in Dallas. Sejana Yoo is a hospital chaplain at Baylor Scott & White Hospital in Temple. She is a graduate of Walden University and Baylor Scott & White Hospital’s Clinical Pastoral Education program, and she recently graduated with a Master of Divinity degree with a concentration in spiritual formation and discipleship from Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary. They join Margaret L. Conley of Cartersville, Ga.; Jamil Grimes and Wesley Poole King of Nashville, Tenn.; Margaret Hamm of Somerville, Mass.; and Lakia Marion of Knoxville, Tenn.

Stark College & Seminary is launching a new Master of Divinity in Chaplaincy degree program, developed in collaboration with CHRISTUS Spohn Health System. The new program is designed to equip students with comprehensive theological education and hands-on clinical training, preparing them for impactful chaplain ministry. The partnership allows students to enroll simultaneously in CHRISTUS Spohn’s Clinical Pastoral Education program while completing a Master of Divinity degree at Stark College & Seminary. Through this dual enrollment, students graduate with two degrees: a Master of Arts in Ministry and a Master of Divinity, along with four units of Clinical Pastoral Education. To celebrate the new program, Stark and CHRISTUS Spohn hosted an educational affiliation agreement signing ceremony on Aug. 14, coinciding with the 50th-year celebration of Clinical Pastoral Education at CHRISTUS Spohn Health System.

Texas Baptists’ Christian Life Commission announced this year’s winners of the Strickland-Davis Scholarship: Rylie Burden, a global political science student at Howard Payne University; Sarah Harbison, a psychology and social work student at Hardin-Simmons University; and Daniel Holcomb, who is pursuing a degree in faith and justice at Belmont University. The Strickland-Davis Scholarship seeks to provide financial assistance to students from Baptist General Convention of Texas-affiliated churches pursuing degrees in a field of study related to the commands of Micah 6:8—to do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God. Each school year, three $1,000 scholarships are awarded to students. The CLC directors select the winners from students’ essays on how they will use their degree to live out Micah 6:8. The scholarship is named in memory of Phil Strickland, former director of the CLC, and in honor of Marilyn Davis, former congregational and commission specialist. Strickland was director for nearly a quarter of a century, leading the CLC to care for children, the marginalized and the overlooked. Davis worked with the CLC for 42 years, serving with four directors.

As part of this year’s Welcome Week, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor students participated in Love CTX on Aug. 10. The annual event is designed for students to discover service opportunities and grow closer to their Cru Groups by serving the community. For the fifth year, UMHB’s Love CTX event supported One More Child, which provides Christ-centered services to vulnerable children and struggling families. Approximately 400 UMHB students packed 21,000 meals and wrote notes for Belton ISD students. This year, the local H-E-B in Belton donated all food items for the meals, equaling $11,000 of in-kind donations. The meals will go to Belton ISD’s Project Heartbeat program to help students who may not have food at home and will be distributed throughout the school year.

The Howard Payne University School of Nursing will receive a $312,000 grant this fall from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to aid in reducing the professional nursing shortage in the state of Texas. The funds will help HPU enroll and retain nursing students, as well as develop innovative methods for instructional or clinical space and other resources to strengthen the program. HPU’s school of nursing recently was recognized for a 100 percent pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. The nationwide standardized exam assesses nursing knowledge and skills that are required to provide safe and effective patient care. The recognition was for May 2023 graduates and was confirmed by the Texas Board of Nursing. HPU’s BSN program is one of only six BSN programs in Texas to achieve a 100 percent pass rate on the exam. The program has held national nursing accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education since 2020. The Nursing Shortage Reduction Program grant was established in 2001 by the 77th Texas Legislature to address the statewide nursing shortage in Texas. Grants are awarded to public and private colleges and universities with qualifying nursing programs.

A land donation from DeJuan Strickland has pushed Wayland Baptist University’s Thrive Campaign past the $16 million mark and closer to the anticipated goal of at least $18 million. Strickland gifted land in South Dakota through estate planning, with the intent that it would benefit students and enhance the financial resources of the university. The Thrive Campaign is designed to elevate Wayland’s status as a leader in higher education through substantial investments in academic excellence, recruitment and retention, campus improvements, and athletics.

Houston Christian University has been awarded a $100,000 grant from The Cullen Trust for Higher Education to enhance early literacy at two area Title I elementary schools in the Houston Independent School District. The grant helps fund an early literacy program developed and facilitated by faculty and students in HCU’s College of Education and Behavioral Services in partnership with Lovett Elementary School and Neff Early Learning Center for the 2024-2025 school year. Through the program, HCU students will provide one-on-one reading instructional support for early childhood through 4th grade students identified as performing below grade level and writing support for 4th grade students at designated schools. Participating HCU students also will assist with Book Buddy programs, Literacy Nights, Reading Clubs and after-school tutoring and reading sessions at partnering schools. The early literacy initiative, guided by faculty facilitators, not only will provide elementary school students with supplemental support to reach grade-level reading benchmarks and reinforcement of their reading and writing skills, but also allows HCU students to participate in experiential learning in a real-world setting. The grant covers the cost of student orientation, training and background checks, the salaries of program coordinators, student tutors and instructional, motivational and after-school resources for each campus.

David Hardage was presented an honorary doctorate of divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University for his lifetime of servant leadership at the DBU summer graduation ceremony, Aug. 2.  Hardage served as executive director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas for 11 years, from 2012 until 2022. In this role, he led Texas Baptists by serving churches, staff and institutions across the state and beyond. His focus on the Great Commission and the Great Commandment laid the foundation for the continuing work of Texas Baptists. Hardage’s ministry began with pastoring small churches in Texas and Oklahoma. In 2004, he became the director of the Waco Regional Baptist Network. Then in 2007, he became director of development at Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor. Hardage has served as interim pastor for several churches and with Texans on Mission (formerly TBM). 

San Antonio Baptist Association is opening a Kairos University extension campus this fall. Key features of Kairos University include competency-based assessment, personalized learning, integration of theory and practice, mentorship and coaching and outcome-focused curriculum. San Antonio already is home to Baptist University of the Américas, a Wayland Baptist University campus and a branch of Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary.

Anniversaries

Roger Yancey, executive director of Tryon Evergreen Baptist Association, 20 years.

Northview Baptist Church in Lewisville will celebrate its 60th anniversary Sept. 29th. Kenneth Wells is pastor. He has served the church 44 years. The church will hold celebration services on that day at 9 and 10:30 a.m., joined by former members and staff, as well as receiving state and local recognition.

Ordination

James Mann was ordained to the gospel ministry at Valley Hi First Baptist Church in San Antonio.

Over the summer, Howard Payne University student Hannah Hinshaw served in Bobbio Pellice, Italy, with Go Now Missions. Hinshaw is a junior from Weatherford, pursuing a major in Christian education with a minor in worship ministry. She spent two weeks working with students attending sports camp, many of whom never had heard the gospel or regularly attended church. Camp consisted of more than 150 students, 60 adult volunteers and 40 junior coaches. Each group was made up of two Italian speakers, two junior coaches and a handful of English speakers. One of Hinshaw’s roles throughout the week was to help lead music, which involved translating the songs from English to Italian. Go Now Missions is a ministry of Texas Baptists that mobilizes Texas university students to share the love of Christ across the world. Bryan Pate, director of HPU’s Baptist Student Ministry expressed his excitement for Hinshaw’s opportunity to serve overseas with Go Now. “Go Now has been an essential part of Texas BSM’s mission strategy for the past 25 years. It’s such a great opportunity for students to be involved in the work that God is doing, whether that be through statewide, national or international mission trips,” Pate said.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor announced Colin Wilborn has been promoted to associate provost, in addition to his current role as executive dean for the Mayborn College of Health Sciences. In his new role, Wilborn will oversee regional accreditation and various operational activities within the office of academic affairs, including faculty contracting and student appeals. Wilborn, an alumnus of UMHB, first joined the university in 2006 as an assistant professor in exercise and sports science. During his tenure as dean of the graduate school, he was instrumental in launching UMHB’s first online degree in sports administration and expanded graduate program offerings to include physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, public health and nursing. Wilborn’s leadership led to the Mayborn College of Health Sciences creation in 2018.

The African American Fellowship Conference recently recognized Roy Cotton and his wife Inez for his more than 46 years of denominational service. Cotton served 21 years with the Baptist General Convention of Texas before retiring. In his last full-time role with Texas Baptists, he was director of African American Ministries. Following his retirement in 2020, Cotton led the Texas Baptists Ambassador Program, enlisting about 130 volunteers to serve as ambassadors on behalf of Texas Baptists. Prior to his time with Texas Baptists, he served 25 years with the Baptist General Association of Virginia. He also served in various ministry roles with churches in Virginia and was the founding pastor of CenterPointe Baptist Church for the Communities in Red Oak, where he was named “pastor emeritus.” In honor of Cotton’s decades of faithful service, Oza Jones, the current director of Texas Baptists’ African American Ministries, announced the creation of the Dr. Roy and Inez Cotton Music and Arts Scholarship. Carlyn Knight, a 20-year-old sophomore at Paul Quinn College, was named as the inaugural scholarship recipient.

Hardin-Simmons University announced the addition of cycling as a sport and hired Brenda Andress as its inaugural coach. Cycling is not an NCAA-sanctioned sport but has varsity and club levels and falls under the auspices of USA Cycling, which features four disciplines—track, mountain bike, cyclocross and road. HSU will compete in mountain bike in the fall season and road in the spring season. HSU will compete at the varsity level in the South Central Collegiate Cycling Conference—a collection of cycling teams representing colleges and universities from Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Louisiana. Andress holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Abilene Christian University and a master’s degree in leadership from the University of Texas at Arlington.

A new cohort of Dallas Baptist University’s Gary Cook School of Leadership began doctoral studies this semester. Pursuing a Ph.D. in Leadership with concentrations in ministry, higher education, business or general leadership, their studies will include qualitative and quantitative research alongside a deep dive into leadership scholarship. The three-year program includes three institutes, taking place in three summers during the duration of the program. Each institute sets the stage for the next year of research and study. In the final stage of their doctoral work, students must compose and successfully defend a dissertation on a topic in their respective fields of study. The first summer, students stay in Dallas to connect and learn DBU’s values. Next summer, the group will travel to Washington, D.C., to study under DBU President Adam C. Wright. In the summer of 2026, they will travel to Oxford University for the final institute, where they will learn from Blake Killingsworth, dean of the Cook School of Leadership, before beginning research for their dissertation in the summer of 2027. 

Students returning to Wayland Baptist University Aug. 21 will find 33 new programs across various disciplines. In the newly renamed School of Humanities and Leadership, a Doctor of Strategic Leadership program has been launched. Additionally, Wayland now offers six new master’s degree programs, four new accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s degree tracks, four new graduate certificate programs, nine new bachelor’s degree programs, three new undergraduate certificate programs, one new associate’s degree program and five new minors. A list of the new programs can be found here.

The grand opening of the new Buckner Children and Family Services of Houston campus was commemorated Aug. 3, with a ribbon cutting, reception and back-to-school distribution. The campus is a 6.88-acre property in north Houston near the Houston ISD and Aldine ISD border. The campus is situated strategically in the Northside neighborhood, to provide vital programs and services to some of Houston’s most vulnerable communities. According to the City of Houston, Northside’s residential population is 74 percent Hispanic. Nearly half of the families living in Northside have an average income under $25,000 per year, and 58 percent of residents are without a high school diploma. The surrounding area of Aldine is experiencing a rising population, but inadequate wages and limited housing and social services. In Aldine, 91.6 percent of children are economically disadvantaged. The campus includes 37,000 square feet of classroom space and a gymnasium. The first phase of renovations recently was completed to update the facilities and create space for programming that supports children and families. Several key programs will be housed on the campus, including Buckner Family Hope Center at Northside—where families will have access to free classes. Future growth for the Buckner Children and Family Services of Houston campus includes the potential to house all core programs in one location—including new residences for single-parent families participating in the Buckner Family Pathways single-parent residential program.

Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities will host the second annual Community Field Day on Oct. 5, from 10 a.m. to noon at McLane Stadium. Registration is now open. Youth and adults with developmental disabilities ages 12 and older and their families are invited to enjoy field games and learn about taking care of their health. This event is co-sponsored by the National Down Syndrome Society, with Congressman Pete Sessions as the Honorary Chair.

Anniversary

First Baptist Church in Rockdale will celebrate 150 years of faithful Christian service and ministry on Sept. 22, with morning and afternoon services beginning at 10:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Matt Higginbotham is pastor. The congregation invites you to join them in celebration, with former pastors, staff and members who will participate in the services. For more information, contact the church at 512-446-5375.

Stark College & Seminary will launch a new Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Counseling Track. This program is designed to meet the growing demand among prospective and current students for a Christian counseling-focused education within the Bachelor of Arts in Ministry degree. Much like a pre-med bachelor’s degree offers students the opportunity to gauge interest in medicine and ensures prerequisite courses are taken before medical school, Stark’s new counseling track will serve as a preparatory path for students interested in pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling or LPC certification. The 24-credit hour track includes specialized courses such as foundations of counseling ministry, pastoral counseling, marriage and family counseling, and counseling children and adolescents. For more information about Stark and the Bachelor of Arts in Ministry Counseling Track, please visit stark.edu or contact@stark.edu.

Hardin-Simmons University’s newest residence, Prichard Hall, was dedicated on July 30. Located at the corner of Ambler and Simmons Aves., the building contains 42 student living suites, totaling 164 beds. Each suite has two full bathrooms and four bedrooms that share a small living room. Each student in residence will have a private bedroom in the unit with a twin bed, study desk, dresser and walk-in closet. Construction began in May 2022 with a groundbreaking ceremony, and finishing touches are currently taking place to allow students to move in mid-August for the start of the 2024 fall semester. To read more about the building and view floorplans, click here.

Houston Christian University’s Center for Christianity in Business will host Advancing the Kingdom in the Workplace: A Hands-on Workshop on How to Be an Effective Influencer for God in the Workplace, a full-day executive training seminar, Sept. 28, on the HCU campus. This evangelism workshop is designed for marketplace professionals who want to learn how to share their faith in the workplace in today’s culture. Participants will see examples of how God is at work in the business world today and learn and practice time-tested principles of winning others to Christ without jeopardizing friendship and camaraderie. The workshop is led by Jerry Wiles, president emeritus of Living Water International, ambassador-at-large with the International Orality Network and mission advisor with Missio Nexus. For more information visit HCU’s Center for Christianity in Business website. RSVP deadline is Sept. 18.

Donna Hedgepath, 14th president of Wayland Baptist University, will make her Amarillo debut on Aug. 30, as one of two featured speakers at the university’s Blue and Gold Social. Hedgepath, the first woman to lead the 115-year-old institution, will share the spotlight with 1993 Wayland alumnus Kevin Carter, president and CEO of Amarillo Economic Development Corp. The gathering, sponsored by Wayland Baptist University Alumni Association, begins at 6:30 p.m. at Hoffbrau Steak & Grill House. Registration for this limited-seating event is required. The cost is $25 per person until Aug. 16. If seats still are available after Aug. 16, the price goes up to $30 per person. To register, visit the Alumni Events Page and fill out the registration form.

Thirteen members of North Side Baptist Church in Weatherford concluded on July 26 a mission trip to Brazil to work with P70, in conjunction with some additional Baptist churches from Texas and the United States. Jim Thomas, senior pastor of North Side Baptist, reported the evangelistic trip included 60 Americans and over 350 Brazilian partners in ministry in two towns over 8 days. As a result, 584 people committed their lives to Christ, with plans for follow-up through local churches. Two churches will be planted in these towns. Thomas’ team saw an additional 100 to 150 come to Christ in the school where his team worked.

Volunteers from First Baptist Churches in Hempstead and Melissa raised funds to drill a water well in Peru, then traveled to help dig it through Texans on Mission’s Water Impact ministry. The team also helped the regular drilling crew dig trenches and operate equipment. Mitch Chapman, director of Texans on Mission Water Impact, expects to drill 12 wells in Peru this year. The Texas team drilled the well in a village called Munich. Five minutes after the team hit water, women began bringing pots to capture the water. It wasn’t pure yet, but it was better than what they had been drinking. Before the well came in, the team had watched villagers draw water out of the river. The team also installed a well casing and cemented it for sustained use, where people will come to fill containers. Chapman said Texans on Mission has worked hard to create an effective and sustainable water well drilling operation in Peru that emphasizes sharing the gospel.

Anniversary

The Church at Quail Creek/San Jacinto Baptist Church in Amarillo will turn 100 years old Dec. 7. Originally named San Jacinto Baptist Church, the church was an outgrowth of First Baptist Church in Amarillo. The anniversary will be celebrated Sept. 21 to 22—at the church’s original location on Sept. 21, at 501 S. Carolina St., from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., with a church history display and food trucks. The celebration on Sept. 22 will be held at the current campus, 801 Tascosa Rd., beginning at 8:15 a.m., with breakfast for attendees. For more information about the anniversary celebration, visit www.tcqc.org/100.

Hardin-Simmons University is thrilled to announce the Texas Board of Nursing has approved unanimously HSU’s School of Nursing. This milestone is a testament to the dedication of Sandra Welling, founding director, and the collaborative efforts of campus and community partners. Classes will begin at the start of the spring 2025 semester.

 Stark College & Seminary is excited to announce the launch of its new Accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Ministry + Master of Divinity Program. This innovative program offers exceptional students the opportunity to earn both degrees in a reduced timeframe, minimizing duration and financial investment while preparing them for careers in ministry. Students in the program complete 96 undergraduate credits in their first three years, followed by 24 graduate-level credits in their final undergraduate year. After earning their B.A. degree, students finish the remaining 49 credit hours of the MDiv program. This structure allows for a smooth transition from undergraduate to graduate studies while offering significant time and cost savings. Graduates of the program will be prepared for various ministerial and nonprofit roles.

Howard Payne University recently hosted Summer and Young Scholars programs for children entering grades K-6. This year’s theme was “Nature Explorers.” The students engaged in a rotation of classes ranging from art to ecology. Julie Welker, professor of communication and department chair, expressed her appreciation for everyone involved in making this year’s Summer and Young Scholars a success. Guest speakers included Cameron Martin, wildlife biologist for Muse Wildlife Management Area with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and Braston Gray with Andy’s Pest Troopers. Martin presented the Texas Parks and Wildlife “Skins and Skulls” program, and Gray shared a reptile program.

Buckner International promoted Jeff Gentry to executive vice president and chief operating officer and Jan Cothranto vice president and chief financial officer, the role Gentry served in the previous seven years. Both appointments are effective immediately. In his new position, Gentry will oversee operational, financial and shared services functions across Buckner. In addition to Gentry’s current direct reports, he also will supervise Henry Jackson, president of Buckner Children and Family Services; Charlie Wilson, president of Buckner Retirement Services; and Kandyce Ormes-Ripley, associate vice president of Data Analysis and Strategy. “While I’m obviously honored to serve as executive vice president and COO for Buckner, I’m more excited about the opportunity for Jan to move into the position of CFO,” Gentry said. “I know our ministry will benefit from her expanded role and continued excellence.”

Sixteen students in Howard Payne University’s Spanish department participated in a five-week immersive experience in Seville, Spain. Each student completed six credits of Spanish at the Instituto San Fernando, the equivalent of two HPU courses. Students were hosted by families in Seville and were completely immersed in Spain’s language and culture, learning how to conduct daily business and complete everyday tasks in Spanish. Students also participated in major excursions to Córdoba, Cádiz and Granada. They toured cathedrals and synagogues and learned how Christians, Muslims and Jews lived alongside one another during the Middle Ages. Danny Brunette-López, professor of Spanish at HPU and department chair, served as a faculty sponsor for the month-long immersive experience.

Baylor University’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing hosted its 2nd annual CompassRN Student Nurse Summer Camp on July 10, welcoming 30 students from Dallas-area schools. The camp allowed students to hear from nursing faculty and staff and from current nursing students, as well as tour the School of Nursing and clinical simulation building. They learned about nursing school programs and admission requirements and observed basic nursing skills in the simulation lab. Originally established in Houston, Texas, CompassRN is a nurse-led nonprofit organization connecting youth to health education and nursing. It primarily targets underserved and underrepresented middle school and high school students.

The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s Clinical Simulation Learning Center received provisional accreditation status from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare. Provisional status is granted until Dec. 31, 2026, allowing time for the university to pursue full accreditation for the simulation center. “It’s an honor to be recognized by an international organization specializing in simulation,” said Jared McClure, UMHB’s director of Clinical Simulation Learning Center operations. “This recognition speaks to what we’ve put in place and accomplished so far and provides great credibility to our program, while still giving us milestones to reach as we move toward full accreditation.” The center’s mission is to engage students in a Christ-centered learning environment where they will develop the knowledge, skills and interprofessional competencies to become leaders in the health sciences.

Following approval by Wayland Baptist University’s internal governance processes and the National Association of Schools of Music, the university now offers online Bachelor of Applied Science degrees in piano studies, sound production and worship studies. Candidates for these degree programs include independent music teachers, worship leaders, sound designers, recording engineers and others who may have significant work experience in music but previously lacked the opportunity to pursue a formal undergraduate degree. “NASM’s affirmation of Wayland’s new online BAS degrees is evidence of our music faculty’s ability to innovate at the highest levels of quality,” said Cindy McClenagan, vice president of academic affairs. “Approval to offer these unique degrees online allows students from around the world to study under our supremely talented and caring instructors.”

The Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission announced Katie McCoy, director of women’s ministry for the Baptist General Convention of Texas, is among its 2024-25 class of Research Fellows. The ERLC Research Institute is a collaborative space for Southern Baptist researchers and academics to serve the commission and SBC churches on critical theological, ethical and public policy matters related to their areas of expertise. The new class of fellows will assist the ERLC in its mission by producing materials to equip churches to engage ethical and cultural issues in the areas of life and bioethics, religious liberty, marriage and family, and human dignity.

Fellowship Southwest received a $1.25 million grant from the Lilly Endowment to expand its immigration ministries along the U.S.-Mexico border over the next five years. Each year, Fellowship Southwest will recruit border-area churches to develop a well-connected network of migrant ministries from the West Coast to the Gulf of Mexico. Also, Fellowship Southwest will enlist other churches beyond the border region that commit to compassion and justice ministries related to immigration. Churches will receive guidance from an immigration ministry manager as they design their projects, as well as seed grants to support implementation. Fellowship Southwest Executive Director Stephen Reeves expressed appreciation to the Lilly Endowment for its investment in immigration programs. “I believe many churches will find a calling and renewed vision by practicing compassion and pursuing justice for their immigrant neighbors,” Reeves said. “By establishing relationships, learning the stories of migrants, and becoming more proximate to the crisis of human migration, they will embody the value of Christian hospitality and solidarity.”

Baylor University’s Louise Herrington School of Nursing recently celebrated the 15th anniversary of its “FastBacc” program—a 12-month accelerated track for a post-baccalaureate Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline complete 62 hours of nursing coursework at the Dallas campus. The first cohort of 16 students graduated in 2010. Adrianne Duvall-Ingram is the FastBacc program coordinator.

Retirement

Toby Gonzales as pastor of Primera Iglesia Bautista in Floydada, after 10 years at that church and 37 years in the ministry.

The Baptist World Alliance General Council approved Buckner International and Baylor University as new institutional members of BWA. Albert Reyes, CEO of Buckner International remarked: “For Buckner International to be an active member of the Baptist World Alliance affirms our international presence and connection to the global Baptist family. We can serve and connect to Baptist conventions and congregations in 128 countries, add value to their ministry, deliver expertise on serving vulnerable children, orphans and families, and equip them to serve their communities well.” Baylor President Linda A. Livingstone also commented on Baylor’s membership in BWA, saying: “Baylor is the largest Baptist university in the world, and we are thrilled to join the Baptist World Alliance as a member partner. We believe this relationship will help us continue to fulfill our mission to educate men and women for worldwide leadership and service. The Baylor board of regents recently approved expansion of our longstanding university motto by adding Pro Mundo to Pro Ecclesia, Pro Texana—codifying the influence our students, faculty and alumni have across the globe. We are ‘For the Church, For Texas’ and now ‘For the World.’ We look forward to collaborating and having the ability with the Baptist World Alliance to impact the world for Christ in even more significant ways in the future.”

Dallas Baptist University Chancellor Gary Cook received the Charles D. Johnson Award from the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities. The International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities is a voluntary organization comprised of colleges, universities, and seminaries that embrace their Baptist roots, heritage and relationships. Members include 40 schools with more than 75,000 students in 16 states and three countries. DBU President Adam C. Wright and Cook traveled to Knoxville, Tenn., for this year’s annual meeting, where Cook received the award for his significant contribution to Baptist-related higher education. Cook is the 22nd recipient since the first award was presented in 1983. Bobby Hall, former president of Wayland Baptist University (retired in June 2024) and board member of the association, presented Cook with the award. “Dr. Gary Cook is a servant leader who believes in the power of Christian higher education to change lives and shape culture,” Hall said. “By his accomplishments at DBU and in the entire Baptist higher education landscape, it is clear that Dr. Cook is a true leader.” Cook arrived on the DBU campus in 1988 when he was named president. He served as DBU’s president for 28 years, until he was named chancellor in 2016.

God is working in the lives of students attending summer camps on Wayland Baptist University’s Plainview campus, according to Donnie Brown, director of spiritual life. Leadership Camp for youth from area churches was held June 23-26, and Top of Texas Kids Camp took place June 26-29. The final camp, 806 Youth Camp, runs July 8-12. Brown said God worked in the lives of 60 junior high and high school students who attended Leadership Camp. The Top of Texas Kids’ Camp brought 265 kids and sponsors to the campus for three days.

Houston Christian University hosted a special Topping Off Ceremony for Founders Hall II on June 28. The event signified completion of the structural phase of the final building in the Morris Family Center for Law & Liberty complex. On behalf of HCU President Robert Sloan, Sandy Mooney, HCU chief financial officer/chief operating officer, welcomed special guests and a selection of HCU administrators, board members, faculty and staff, along with members of the construction teams. Special thanks were extended to Lisa Morris Simon and Stewart Morris, Jr. for their past and continued support and commitment to the university. HCU board of trustees Chair Garry Blackmon offered a dedicatory prayer to bless the occasion. Blackmon also expressed appreciation for the life and legacy of HCU’s Founding Father, the late Stewart Morris Sr. and members of his family. Following celebratory remarks, attendees were invited to sign the final structural beam—topped with an evergreen tree in accordance with a Scandinavian tradition dating back to 700 A.D.—to complete the building’s frame. Founders Hall II, the second ancillary building in the Law & Liberty Complex, will house academic classrooms and faculty offices to provide additional space to support HCU’s Institutional Strategic Plan (“Husky 2030”). The building is slated to open in early 2025.

As a Brownwood native, Joseph Burcham didn’t have to travel far for a college education at Howard Payne University. But his road to graduation as an engineering science major led to an innovative way to light rural interstate highways. “My project is a system-based design harvesting mechanical electrical power from roadways,” Burcham said. “It’s an embedded system, designed to go inside roadways. As cars drive down the streets, they’ll rotate the system and create a current that will charge a battery pack. At night, when the photo sensor goes off, it’ll illuminate the streetlights.” Burcham, who graduated from HPU in May, collaborated on the project with Martin Mintchev, professor of engineering and chair of HPU’s division of engineering. Burcham enjoyed the project’s extensive development process. “We went through Google patents, searching all the databases to make sure there wasn’t a patent out there for it,” he said. “Then we made a miniature model, or prototype, to make sure it’s actually feasible, and then we made it bigger and made it look nice.”

Anniversary

George W. Truett Theological Seminary is celebrating 30 years of theological education. All are invited to attend Truett’s 30th anniversary celebration on Tuesday, Aug. 27. During this event, the Truett community will reflect upon the seminary’s history, enjoy worship and fellowship and consider a future marked by growth and development in an effort to prepare well the next generation of pastors and ministry leaders.

Wayland Baptist University entered a new chapter July 1 with the arrival of Donna Hedgepath, as the university’s 14th president. She is the first woman to lead the 115-year-old institution. Hedgepath joins Wayland from Campbellsville University in Kentucky, where she served as provost and was instrumental in driving significant enrollment growth at the multi-campus Baptist university. As president, Hedgepath is eager to collaborate with faculty, staff, students and alumni, stating: “Collectively, we can move this university forward.” She has prioritized student success, development and service, emphasizing cooperation and forward-thinking strategies. Hedgepath expressed enthusiasm about becoming an active member of the Plainview community, noting she is eager to contribute and engage with business and church leaders.

Howard Payne University recently appointed Wade Ashby as dean of online education and associate professor and chair of the department of computer information systems. In his new role, Ashby will help provide tools and training for HPU faculty to offer high quality online instruction. He will advocate, facilitate and lead HPU in offering quality, flexible degrees targeted at adult learners who are seeking continuing education or a career change. He will support the academic programs at HPU to develop online programs and courses as needed to fulfill the university’s mission of impactful Christian education. Ashby previously served at Hardin-Simmons University for 20 years, where he taught computer science and directed the online bachelor’s degree in business administration. Ashby completed his Ph.D. from Northcentral University in May. He also holds a Master of Science in Computer Science from Georgia Tech with a focus of interactive intelligence and an M.Div. in pastoral ministry from Logsdon Seminary at HSU.

Hardin-Simmons University has been designated a Hispanic-Serving Institution. The designation is granted to universities by the U.S. Department of Education and requires a minimum of 25 percent of an institution’s full-time undergraduate students identify as Hispanic. Currently, approximately 26 percent of HSU undergraduates identify as Hispanic. Reaching HSI status has been a goal for the university since 2021 when it was recorded in the school’s strategic plan, but efforts have been in place since before then. Achieving federal recognition as an HSI will make HSU eligible to apply for a range of federal grants, strengthen institutional programs, facilities and services, and expand educational opportunities for Hispanic Americans and other underrepresented populations. Moving forward, HSU will work to direct efforts and resources toward improving admission, yield and retention rates for Hispanic students andcontinue to make HSU an affordable option for all students.

Smith County officials awarded volunteers with Texans on Mission disaster relief team with a Smith County Community Hero Award, after the group helped more than 100 residents clean up their properties damaged by severe weather in late May and early June. Texans on Mission, historically called Texas Baptist Men, has worked all over Smith County for the past three weeks. Incident Commander Jim Lawton, of Waxahachie, said they received 140 work orders from people requesting help clearing downed trees on their property. Several teams have worked to complete 100 of those work orders and will complete as many more as possible before they leave Smith County. Chainsaw teams from Tyler and Athens were joined by volunteers from Katy and Pittsburg, as well as teams from Louisiana and Arkansas, he said. County Judge Neal Franklin and Emergency Management Coordinator Brandon Moore presented the group with the award.

Baylor University will host a one-day conference Sept. 13 to consider leadership approaches and practices in a crisis-weary world. Sponsored by Truett Theological Seminary’s Program for the Future Church, participants will learn from and with nationally recognized thought leaders, to enjoy interactive panel discussions and to network with other Christian leaders—speakers include Linda A. Livingstone, Nancy Brickhouse, Sandeep Mazumder, Tiffany Hogue, Tod Bolsinger, Audrey Martin, Charlie Dates, Jovan Overshown, Jonathan Tran, Steve Wells, Coté Soerens and Don Corley. Participants also will have an opportunity to hear about Baylor’s new strategic plan and to consider best practices for guiding visioning processes in local ministry, nonprofit and business sectors. Lunch and refreshments are included in the cost of registration. Register one person for $50 or four people for $100. More information, including the registration link, can be found here.

The Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities will host OsoAble Transition to Adulthood on Oct. 10. This full-day event is tailored for adolescents and young adults aged 14 to 30 with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their parents, educators and service providers. It aims to provide valuable information about postsecondary opportunities for transition-aged youth and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Anniversary

Big Springs Baptist Church in Garland will celebrate 150 years on Aug. 18. Charlie Bell is pastor. A schedule of commemorative events throughout the summer can be found here.