Running by Faith: An Alumna’s Journey of Formation and Friendship at DBU

Rebecca Roush ('18) has charted an inspiring path shaped by discipline, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose. A standout student-athlete, professional leader, and devoted wife and mother, her story is a testament to how God uses every season, setbacks and successes alike, for growth and impact. 

Raised in a loving Christian home, faith was always present in Rebecca's life. But it wasn't until high school that her spiritual walk became truly personal. "That's when I began to truly live out what it meant to follow Jesus," she says. "Not just because my parents did, but because I personally desired a relationship with Him."

One of the most formative experiences from that time was volunteering at The Attic, a church-operated outreach center. There, she led worship and regularly witnessed God at work. This laid the foundation for her understanding of purpose and compassion. 

Rebecca's journey to DBU felt divinely guided. After placing 8th at a state cross-country meet, she was recruited by DBU Head Cross Country Coach Jacob Phillips. Simultaneously, her running partner Charles Douglas encouraged her to consider DBU. Through prayer and timing, she accepted. 

"Stepping onto campus, DBU instantly felt like home," she reflects. The cross-country and track teams became her second family. "I grew as an athlete, a teammate, and a person of faith. The community was uplifting and deeply Christ-centered."

A defining moment came when she tore her ACL, a devastating injury that could have derailed her goals. But with the support of her team and the DBU community, she pressed on. "That season of recovery taught me perseverance, discipline, and how to lean into my faith in ways I never had before." By the next November, she stood with her teammates at the NCAA Nationals. "It reminded me that setbacks don't define you - your response does."

Rebecca forged a lifelong friendship with Julia, a fellow athlete from Germany. What began on the field grew into a bond that extended across continents - from shared Thanksgivings in Texas to a visit in Germany and, eventually, standing together at Rebecca's wedding. "That friendship is a beautiful example of the lasting connections DBU fosters."

A transformative trip to Israel with Dr. Jay Harley and Professor Desi Henk brought Scripture to life. "Walking where Jesus walked made my faith more personal and tangible," she shared. Back on campus, Professor Henk mentored her as she served in the Service-Learning office, deepening both her skills and her calling to serve others.

A couple of years after graduating with her BBA and MBA in Accounting in 2020, Rebecca was selected by the Japan-America Society to represent Dallas in the Sendai International Half-Marathon. Although postponed due to COVID, she ran in 2023. "It wasn't just about the race - it was about global connection and strengthening the sister-city friendship between Sendai and Dallas."

After graduating, Rebecca began her career as a tax intern at PwC in Dallas, later becoming a full-time associate. She then transitioned to Ernst & Young for three years in internal finance. "That season gave me valuable insight into operations at a large firm, but I felt a deeper calling to invest in people." 

That calling led her back to PwC, where she now serves as a Talent Acquisition Manager, leading efforts to hire both experienced and entry-level talent. "It's fulfilling to share my journey with candidates and help shape the next generation of professionals." 

Her work has included innovative recruiting strategies and new technologies. She credits DBU's influence: "DBU's integration of faith and learning deeply impacted my approach to leadership and business ethics." 

Rebecca met her lifelong running partner - her husband, Brody, while interning at PwC. Together, they've run six marathons and even started a running club at the firm. Their greatest milestone? Welcoming their son, George. "Becoming a mom has added so much perspective and joy. George brings light to our lives every day." 

Rebecca says DBU's mission continues to influence how she leads, serves, and lives. "Living out the values I gained at DBU looks like striving for integrity in all areas of life, creating a work environment where people feel seen and supported, and staying grounded in faith no matter how busy life gets." 

As a mother, those values carry an even deeper meaning. "Raising George has reminded me how important it is to live a life of consistency, purpose, and love, both at home and in the workplace." 

Her biggest advice? Trust the process. "You don't need to have it all figured out. Be faithful where your feet are, and let God open the right doors. The habits you form now - how you treat people, work, and serve - will carry into every part of your future." 

Rebecca's journey is one of continued learning, resilience, and faith, a journey shaped by DBU and lived out with purpose.