Homecoming 2025 Recap: "Welcome Home, Y'all!"

The DBU campus came alive November 17–22 as alumni, students, families, and future Patriots returned to campus for a week full of tradition, community, and celebration.

From the moment Homecoming Week began, the energy was unmistakable. Student organizations built their floats, clubs led a variety of student events, students worshiped in a special Homecoming Chapel, and the campus transformed into a vibrant scene of Patriot pride. Families also enjoyed special moments together during Family Weekend, with opportunities to worship in Chapel, a parent reception, and time to explore campus before joining the festivities on Saturday.

The Alumni Association carried on cherished traditions with alumni-focused events, including the 38th Annual Turkey Trot, the Parade, Tailgate Party, and the home-game atmosphere that brought excitement to the stands. Prospective students and their families toured campus during the Homecoming Day event, taking in the campus culture alongside the excitement of all the campus events.

To kickstart Saturday's festivities, alumni and their families were invited back to their respective college receptions to reconnect with old friends and professors. The receptions included the Carter School of Business, College of Christian Faith, Graduate School of Ministry, College of Fine Arts, College of Natural Sciences and Math, Jewel House, and a 1970's reunion.

A highlight of Saturday's Homecoming celebration is the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award, recognizing alumni who exemplify DBU's mission. This year David Bayleat, Kenny Brown Jr., Dr. Oscar Epps, Dr. Rachel Griffith, Dr. Ronald L. Harris, Dr. Jennifer Howington, Dr. Lori Rapp, and Dr. Larry Taylor received the honor of 2025’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

Each of these alumni represents DBU's mission lived out through service, leadership, and faith. Their stories highlight the difference Patriots are making around the world.

David Bayleat 

As a 1982 graduate, David Bayleat pursued his master’s, coached soccer at DBU, and now serves as the Senior Pastor at Grand View Church and founder of the international ministry No More Violence A Message from God. His global service has been recognized by the Baptist World Alliance, the World Evangelical Alliance, and the North American Baptist Fellowship.  

Kenny Brown Jr. 

With more than fifteen years of experience in finance, Kenny Brown Jr. now serves as the President and Chief Operating Officer of Argent Trust Oklahoma. Kenny graduated from DBU with his bachelor’s and master’s degrees and serves in his community as a board member for the Tulsa Estate Planning Forum and the Rotary Club of Tulsa Foundation.  

Dr. Oscar Epps 

After earning his bachelor’s from DBU in 2013, Dr. Oscar Epps now serves as the founding Senior Pastor at the Community Missionary Baptist Church in DeSoto and on the University’s Board of Trustees. Dr. Epps received an honorary Doctorate, serves as the President of the BGCT African American Fellowship, and is the first African American Chaplain for the DeSoto Police Department.  

Dr. Rachel Griffith 

After earning her bachelor’s degree in 1973, Dr. Rachel Griffith returned to DBU as a Distinguished Adjunct Professor. Over the years, Dr. Griffith helped establish two foundations and advanced from the Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas in a Neonatology group to Medical Director of the NICU and Newborn Services at Medical City Dallas Hospital.  

Dr. Ronald L. Harris 

Receiving his master’s in communications and an honorary Doctorate from DBU, Dr. Ron Harris has served in a variety of broadcasting roles in radio, television, and church media for organizations like KCBI Radio and the U.S. Air Force. Dr. Harris is a member of the National Religious Broadcasters, founder of MEDIA Alliance International, and has served on DBU’s Board of Trustees as Chairman.  

Dr. Jennifer Howington 

Serving children, students, and ministers, Dr. Jennifer Howington earned her master’s from DBU and her Ph.D. from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and now serves as Associate Director and Childhood Ministry Specialist at the BGCT. Dr. Howington has received several honors and serves as an adjunct professor at Howard Payne University and DBU.  

Dr. Lori Rapp 

Graduating from DBU in 2017 with her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, Dr. Lori Rapp has received over fifteen awards in her thirty years in public education. As Lewisville ISD’s Superintendent, Dr. Rapp serves on multiple boards, public education organizations, Chambers of Commerce, and is a spokesperson for education at the local, state, and national levels.  

Dr. Larry Taylor 

Receiving his Ph.D. from DBU in 2009, Dr. Larry Taylor is a published author who has held several public-school teaching and head positions at First Academy in Orlando, Florida and Prestonwood Christian Academy in Plano. He now serves as the President of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), providing Christian education worldwide.  

Amid all the activities, DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright reminded the DBU Family of the deeper purpose behind Homecoming: "Homecoming isn't just about the events. It's about people. It's about reconnecting with old friends, welcoming back alumni, and celebrating the community that God has built here on University Hill."

As the weekend concluded, one truth was clear; Homecoming 2025 was about more than honoring tradition. It was about deepening relationships, celebrating faith, and reaffirming what it means to be part of the DBU Family.