Flight of a Lifetime: How DBU Shaped Alumnus Rob Hahn '03

Rob Hahn grew up in Tyler, Texas, with a passion for aviation and a desire to pursue a Business degree that would prepare him for a future in the industry. Although he visited universities across the country, he continued to pray for a school that aligned with both his professional goals and his desire for a Christ-centered education. Then, in what he describes as divine intervention, he began receiving information from a university he had never heard of—Dallas Baptist University.

Intrigued by its location in a city home to two major airlines, Rob visited campus and immediately sensed something different. Though smaller than the schools he had toured, DBU stood out for its warm community and welcoming spirit. "From the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt it was the right place for me," he recalls.

Long before stepping foot on University Hill, Rob's spiritual roots were already deep. Raised in a Christ-centered home and active at Green Acres Baptist Church, he received his first Bible from Dr. Paul Powell and grew in his faith under the Dr. David Dykes. In the summer of 1986, during his church's day camp, he read a children's book that explained the Gospel in a way he could fully understand. Soon after, he prayed to accept Christ as his Savior, an early moment that would guide and anchor his life, including his years at DBU.

Once on campus, Rob quickly immersed himself in student life, forming lifelong friendships and discovering a sense of belonging that shaped his college years. He served as a student worker in Student Activities (now Student Life), helping plan events across campus. Later, he worked in Admissions and the College of Adult Education, which provided him with opportunities to invest in students, just as DBU faculty and staff had invested in him. These roles affirmed his belief in DBU's mission and allowed him to contribute to the culture of hospitality and care he valued so deeply.

During Rob's junior year, the world changed. The tragic events of 9/11 sent shock waves through the aviation industry, leaving little hope for students aspiring to work for an airline. By the start of his senior year, however, a rare window opened; Southwest Airlines was hiring.

Rob applied and was offered a full-time position at Southwest's Dallas Corporate Headquarters midway through his senior year, an opportunity he believes was God's provision and perfect timing. What followed has truly been, in his words, "the flight of a lifetime."

When Rob joined the company in December 2002, Southwest operated 375 aircraft serving 59 airports with 33,000 employees. Today, 23 years later, the airline has grown to 810 aircraft operating at 106 domestic and 16 international destinations with more than 72,000 employees.

Despite its size, Rob shares that Southwest still feels like family. He has served in various leadership roles and now works as a consultant, helping individuals and teams grow while supporting the company's mission to connect people to what's important in their lives. "'Growing up' at Southwest, under the leadership of our President Emeritus Colleen Barrett, taught me to lead with heart and that genuine care builds trust, belonging, and unleashes people's full potential," Rob reflects.

He often sees parallels between Southwest's values, Warrior Spirit, Servant's Heart, and Fun-LUVing Attitude, and the character formation he experienced at DBU.

In 2022, Rob celebrated 20 years with Southwest Airlines, a significant milestone marking both his passion for aviation and his dedication to serving others. Now approaching his 25-year anniversary, he considers the relationships he has built and the experiences he has gained among his greatest blessings.

"Sometimes I still have to pinch myself," he says. "The fact that my hobby of aviation and travel is my actual job."

Rob fondly remembers the professors who helped equip him for his career, particularly his marketing professor, Chip Ricketts, and communications professor, Dr. Jerry Reynolds. Many of their lessons were grounded in case studies related to aviation; some even focused on Southwest Airlines, providing relevant, practical learning that strengthened his sense of calling.

Beyond the classroom, DBU helped shape his understanding of servant leadership, a philosophy he carries with him daily in his work. His time as a student worker and his involvement in campus life reinforced the importance of humility, service, and community, values he has carried throughout his professional journey.

For current students and recent graduates, Rob encourages staying connected to the DBU community. Serving on the Alumni Board and the DBU Board of Trustees has given him opportunities to mentor others, build friendships, and stay rooted in the mission that shaped him.

Looking back, he would tell his younger self to savor every moment of the college experience and to embrace the friendships, opportunities, and independence that come with those formative years.

Above all, Rob encourages students and alumni to stay grounded in their faith. "Life can feel unfamiliar and challenges will come," he shares. "But holding firmly to your faith not only helps you navigate those challenges but also opens your eyes to the unexpected blessings that come with them."