SPRING 2022 1 Spring 2022 | vol. 34 no.4 THE DBU REPORT Building Leaders for the Kingdom For nearly 125 years, DBU’s mission has remained the same—to produce Christ-centered servant leaders with a heart to transform the world, all for the glory of God. You can help advance this vision on DBU Giving Day, May 3.
DBU REPORT 2 4 DBU Giving Day 6 DBU Russell H. Perry Awards Dinner 12 WAB Ruth Awards Luncheon 14 DBU Homecoming 18 December Commencement 20 30th Annual Baseball Banquet 22 Spring Break Trips 23 Student Spotlight: Joelle Newton 24 News & Notes 29 Patriot Athletics Meet the 2021 DBU Homecoming Court
SPRING 2022 3 The DBU Report is a quarterly publication of Dallas Baptist University. Dr. Adam C. Wright, President. Editor: Dr. Blake Killingsworth, Vice President for Communications; Co-Editor: Kadra Fant, Senior Graphic Designer. Contributors: Kirsten McKimmey, Director of Visual Communications; Mackenzie Lee, Assistant Director of Visual Communications; Exauce Madjibe Dijo, Staff Assistant for Visual Communications; Abbey Watson, Director of Creative Services; Courtney Smith, Digital and Social Strategist; Dr. Michael Whiting, Director of Written Content; Victoria Aguilera, Director of Social Media; Reagan Ratcliff, Assistant Director of Athletics for Media Relations; Rachel Crites; Emmalie Ellis; Jason Lippert. DBU Report, 3000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas 75211-9299. news@dbu.edu.
DBU REPORT 4 Building Leaders for BUSINESS MUSIC MINISTRY MEDICINE EDUCATION LAW & POLITICS e kingdom DBU Giving Day May 3, 2022 For nearly 125 years, DBU has held true its mission to build leaders for the Kingdom of God. Across the globe, you can find DBU Patriots serving God through the fields of business, education, law, politics, medicine, music, ministry, and so much more. These servant leaders are transforming the world, all for the glory of God. As we look forward to the next 125 years, we see the challenges that lie ahead, but we remain confident that the Lord will go before us and provide us with the strength and resources we need to continue this vision for generations to come. Would you prayerfully consider partnering with us on DBU Giving Day? Visit dbu.edu/givingday to learn more about our incredible students and discover how you can help us support the next generation of servant leaders and advance the mission of DBU for years to come.
SPRING 2022 5 dbu.edu/givingday “I am dedicated to unifying the Body of Christ in the political field and feel called to serve in both local government and the Church. DBU has helped me integrate a Christian worldview into the topic of politics and has shown me how the Church can serve alongside the government. After graduation, I would like to return to my hometown to begin my political career.” Adom Spencer, Political Science, Richmond, TX “I have a passion for law enforcement and technology. Combining these two passions through a degree in Management Information Systems has been great! DBU has shaped my passion for cybersecurity. There have been three men that have made a huge impact in my life here on campus: Chief Havens, Daniel Kung, and Dr. Dale Sims. These men have acquired extensive experience in their respective fields and have taught me how God has worked in their lives personally. They have passed on invaluable insight to me regarding how to navigate through life and what to expect when I step into my career after graduating.” Sammy Lac, Management Information Systems, Euless, TX “I immensely enjoy educating children. Children are, in my opinion, the greatest evidence of a divine God. The way each child’s mind works intricately and beautifully is fascinating to me. Learning remains a God-given tool which all children should be given access to so that they might learn more about their Creator and His creation. Teachers place the great tool of learning into children’s hands, and with the excellent education I am receiving at DBU, I am becoming well-equipped to pass on this tool of learning.” Lydia Long, Elementary Education, Granbury, TX “My dream is to work in the field of forensics, so that is my area of study at DBU. While this is a difficult field, I believe in the importance of bringing light into dark places by any means necessary, and I am grateful that the Lord has given me the grace, capacity, and opportunity to pursue a degree in this field. My studies at DBU have assisted me greatly; whether it be by peers or professors, I am continuously pushed to be and do my best.” Megan Babler, Psychology, Mount Morris, IL Help DBU build leaders for the kingdom!
DBU REPORT 6 Clark Hunt, along with his mother, Norma, and children, Ava and Knobel, with the Kansas City Chiefs Lombardi Trophy from Super Bowl LIV Dallas Baptist University honored Clark Hunt as the recipient of the 2021 Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award during the annual award dinner held on Monday, November 22, at the Hilton Anatole Hotel in Dallas. Established in 1988, the gala dinner continues to honor leaders whose lives are testimonies of achievements in free enterprise and service to the community. The event is named in memory of Dallas business leader and philanthropist Russell H. Perry, whose life of service impacted many. Over the past 34 years, the dinner has provided scholarship support for over 2,500 DBU students. This year’s dinner was chaired by Scott Turner, current DBU Trustee, former Executive Director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, former Texas State Representative, and former NFL Player. Dr. Jim Denison, CEO of Denison Ministries, served as the honorary dinner chair. DBU Honors Clark Hunt
SPRING 2022 7 Averi Baxter, a DBU communications major, and Blayne Jones, a DBU business major and member of the Patriot Baseball Team, served as emcees for the event welcoming attendees and opening the program. C. T. “Sparkey” Beckham, the 2020 Russell Perry Award recipient, led in the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance, and Scott Turner provided the invocation. As a special part of the evening, the DBU Grand Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Stephen Holcomb, performed a patriotic program entitled “Portraits of America,” narrated by voice actor and DBU Alumnus Gabe Kunda. Following the musical performance, DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright gave a word of gratitude to those attending and challenged them to join in the vision and ministry of DBU. After Dr. Wright’s remarks, Dr. Jim Denison came to the stage to welcome the honoree, Clark Hunt, and have a special Q&A time with him as they discussed faith, family, and football. The evening was closed out by DBU Head Baseball Coach Dan Heefner, who gave the benediction. The 2021 Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Awardee Clark Hunt is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Kansas City Chiefs. Hunt has been the driving force behind the resurgence of the Chiefs, transforming the iconic franchise into one of the most successful teams in the National Football League over the last decade. Since taking over as CEO in 2010, the Chiefs have earned five AFC West Division Championships, seven playoff appearances, and the franchise’s second Lombardi Trophy as World Champions in Super Bowl LIV. The son of legendary American sports pioneer and Chiefs Founder Lamar Hunt, Clark Hunt has built upon his father’s legacy by ensuring the Chiefs organization remains focused on its core mission to: “Honor Tradition, Unite Our Community, Win with Character, and Inspire Our Fans.” The Dallas native is also a founding investor-operator in Major League Soccer, serving as Chairman and CEO of FC Dallas, while his family originally founded two other MLS clubs, the Kansas City Wizards (now Sporting Kansas City) and the Columbus Crew. Clark and his wife, Tavia, are actively involved in numerous philanthropic initiatives in both Kansas City and Dallas. One of the Hunt family’s lasting legacies is the Chiefs Charity Game, which has raised more than $13.5 million for local youth-focused charities since its inception in 1985. In 2017, the Chiefs and the Hunt Family Foundation were selected as a finalist for the prestigious Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Sports Award, and in 2016, the Chiefs were named Business Philanthropist of the Year in Kansas City by Nonprofit Connect. Clark and Tavia have three children—Gracelyn, Knobel, and Ava. The Hunts are members of Watermark Community Church in Dallas, Texas. “What a privilege it has been to honor a great Champion for Christ in Clark Hunt,” said Dr. Wright. “He embodies the spirit of what we are attempting to produce in our students as Christ-centered servant leaders.” 2020 Russell Perry Award recipients C. T. “Sparkey” and Merrie Beckham, along with their daughter and her husband, Stacey and John Gould
DBU REPORT 8 DBU friend Martha Edwards and Jeff Smith, who serves as President and CEO of HighGround Advisors, along with DBU Chancellor Dr. Gary Cook and his wife, Sheila Dinner Chair Scott Turner, DBU Trustee and former Texas Representative, and his wife, Robin Former Russell Perry Award recipient, Dr. Ken Cooper (left), along with his wife, Dr. Millie Cooper, and television personality Scott Murray Brad and Holly Reeves, parents of current DBU baseball player, Cole Reeves Honorary Dinner Chair Dr. Jim Denison, DBU Trustee, and his wife, Janet Former Russell H. Perry Award recipient David Dean (left), and his wife, Jean, along with Jeff and Sally Patton, Jr.
SPRING 2022 9 Long-time friends of DBU, Tim and Peggy Horner Current DBU Trustee Dr. Charles Ku, along with his wife, Mary (center), and their guests (l-r) Arthur and Mindy Chen, Eileen Ko, Eric Ko, Peggy Chu, and Suzanne Chen Current DBU Trustee Kaye Dawn Lunsford and her husband, Holt Lunsford Jim Nation, a current member of the DBU Board of Trustees, along with his wife, Sally, who has previously served on the board, and Patsy Smith, who currently serves as a DBU Trustee Dr. Mark Yarbrough, President of Dallas Theological Seminary, and his wife, Jennifer Former member of the DBU Board of Trustees, Ken Pilgrim (center left), with his wife, Donna, and friends Rodney and Nan Bass
DBU REPORT 10 2020 C.T. “Sparkey” and Merrie Beckham 2019 Sam Johnson 2018 Raymond Harris 2017 Orville C. Rogers 2016 Joel Allison 2015 Lee Roy and Tandy Mitchell 2014 Don Hodges 2013 Bob Buford 2012 Vester Hughes 2011 Norm Miller 2010 Wright L. Lassiter, Jr. 2009 Tom Leppert 2008 Drayton McLane, Jr. PREVIOUS RUSSELL H. PERRY AWARD RECIPIENTS 2007 Andy and Joan Horner 2006 David A. Dean 2005 Pete Schenkel 2004 Noble Hurley (posthumously) 2003 The Weir Furniture Family 2002 George A. Shafer 2001 Mary C. Crowley (posthumously) 2000 Erle Nye 1999 Ross Perot, Jr. 1998 Jim L. Turner 1997 Rodger Meier 1996 W. Forrest Smith 1995 Lonnie ‘Bo’ Pilgrim 1994 Bob Minyard, Liz Minyard, Gretchen Minyard Williams, J.L. Sonny Williams 1993 Boone Powell, Sr., Boone Powell, Jr. 1992 Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper 1991 Tom Landry 1990 Maurice and Ebby Halliday Acers 1989 Trammell Crow 1988 John M. Stemmons, Sr. The DBU Grand Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Stephen Holcomb, performed a patriotic program entitled “Portraits of America,” narrated by voice actor and DBU Alumnus Gabe Kunda 2021 DINNER COMMITTEE Jim Denison, Honorary Chair Scott Turner, Chair Art Alexander Bob Anderson Zach Bean C.T. “Sparkey” Beckham Judge Oswin Chrisman John Clem David Cook Gary Cook Millie Cooper David Dean Stacey Beckham Gould Raymond Harris Ryan Hefton Marshall Hodge Phil King Kaye Dawn Lunsford Fred Moses Jim Nation R. Edwin Pearce Ryan Petkoff Ken Pilgrim Boone Powell, Jr. Ron Skaggs Jon Skidmore Shelly Slater Shannen Smith Bobby Soto Bryan Stevenson Aaron Vann David Walls Mark Wells Don Wills Jack Woodworth Adam C. Wright
SPRING 2022 11 Thank You Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award Sponsors for Providing Scholarships for DBU Students LEADERSHIP The Dallas Morning News Tim, Peggy, and Andy Horner Norm Miller - Interstate Batteries BENEFACTOR Mitchell Foundation Nation Foundation Harold and Mildred Sadler FREEDOM COUNCIL Art and Linda Alexander Marshall and Janet Hodge Ted and Bette Lyon Pilgrim Family and Pilgrim Bancorporation Patsy R. Smith Meredith and Jack Woodworth ENTERPRISE COUNCIL Arcosa, Inc. Austin Industries Babe’s Chicken/Charla and Paul Vinyard Baylor Scott and White Health Mr. and Mrs. C.T. Beckham Meriam Calabria Les and Janice Cockerell Denison Ministries John and Nita Ford Frost Bank Gittings Susan Graves Wayne and Kara Hamilton Raymond and Marydel Harris HighGround Advisors Hillwood Development Company Hodges Capital Management Kirkland and Ellis, LLP Kaye Dawn and Holt Lunsford R. Edwin Pearce Dr. Allen and Elaine Schneider Mary Stuart Superior Landscapes Betty Turner UBS Institutional Consulting Walne Family Holdings Mark and Becky Wells CHAIRMAN’S BOARD Dyan and Bob Anderson BMA Architects Linda C. Buford Chick-fil-A 75 and Campbell Dr. and Mrs. Gary Cook Drs. Ken and Millie Cooper Cooper Clinic Alan Dabdoub David and Jean Dean Dean International, Inc. Elleco Construction Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher, LLP Haynes and Boone Carl and Gail Hefton Holmes Murphy Iberia Bank/First Horizon JCI Investments, Inc. Mrs. Anita Jones Dr. and Mrs. Charles Ku Lynn Pinker Hurst and Schwegmann, LLP Dan and Andrea Neal Dorothy Renfrow Scott and Carla Robinson Mrs. Melanie Rogers/In loving memory of Bill Rogers Service First Janitorial Bryan and Lacey Stevenson Texas Baptist Missions Foundation Texas Baptists Aaron and Kim Vann Don and Sue Wills Jacky Wong Chan PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL Judy Abercrombie Academic HealthPlans ACP Foundation Jay and Jenny Allison Dr. Greg and Lisa Ammons Warren and Joyce Andres Baptist Standard Zach and Brittni Bean Scott and Heath Beasley Erin and Randy Byers Larry R. and Patricia Byrd Kevin and Kathleen Cantwell Marvin and Julie Carlisle Os and Marilyn Chrisman Donna Lin and Jason Chung John and Carole Clem Clyde Collier - Wheelhouse Consulting Dr. David and Nicole Cook Criswell College Dallas Baptist Association/ The Heights Baptist Church Dallas Theological Seminary Dr. Bob and Ellen Dean Deans Stepp Law, LLP Excel Commercial Dr. Robert Jeffress/First Baptist Church Dallas Flying B Ranch Herschel and Cindy Forester Kevin and Beth Grace GuideStone Financial Resources Dr. Ron and Judy Harris Ryan and Sarah Hefton Dr. Ryan and Joanna Jespersen Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Johnson Kamm Family Kastle Systems Jordan and Brooke Kennedy The Kindness Journeys Mr. Dennis and Dr. Gail Linam Mission Advancement Mr. and Mrs. William H. Moulton, III Movement | DFW Newsome Construction, Inc. Mr. Erle A. Nye, Sr. Park Cities Baptist Church Deacons Dr. and Mrs. Bill Pinson Peggy and Boone Powell Brian and Kathryn Robnett Dr. Rose-Mary Rumbley Pat and Pete Schenkel Scottish Rite for Children Ronald and Sondra Skaggs Jon and Lisa Skidmore May Beth Smith Shannen and Kelly Smith Bobby and Kim Soto Wayne and Thuy Stevenson Dan and Julie Turner The Jim Turner Family Scott and Robin Turner Weir’s Furniture Roger V. and Cherry F. Williams Dr. and Mrs. Adam C. Wright
DBU REPORT 12 Women’s Auxiliary Board RuthAwards Christmas L UNCH E ON Every year at the annual Women’s Auxiliary Board Ruth Awards Luncheon, Dallas Baptist University honors distinguished women who exemplify devotion to God, family, and community as encompassed in the biblical story of Ruth. The 2021 award recipients were Alex Wagner, Mary Fae Kamm, and Dr. Nancy McLaughlin. Honors Three Outstanding Servant Leaders Alex Wagner, Mary Fae Kamm, and Dr. Nancy McLaughlin Women’s Auxiliary Board President Joyce Andres, Ruth Award Luncheon Chair Jacque Delkus, and Women’s Auxiliary Board Executive Director Leslie Moulton
SPRING 2022 13 The event was hosted by the Women’s Auxiliary Board on December 8 and took place in the Hillcrest Great Hall of the John G. Mahler Student Center. Joyce Andres, President of the Women’s Auxiliary Board, began the luncheon with a prayer and a word of welcome to all in attendance. Following a special performance by a DBU student ensemble, DBU President Dr. Adam Wright shared an introduction and remarks. Afterwards, Jacque Delkus, Chair of the Ruth Awards Luncheon Committee, introduced the honorees who were presented with their awards by Todd Wagner, Kay Kamm, and Dr. Gail Linam. Leslie Moulton, Executive Director of the Women’s Auxiliary Board, closed the ceremony with a prayer of dedication. To learn how to become involved with the DBU Women’s Auxiliary Board, visit dbu.edu/WAB. Alex Wagner and friends who joined her to celebrate Herb Kamm, Mary Fae Kamm, and Kay Kamm, with Vice President of Financial Affairs Dr. Matt Murrah Dr. Nancy McLaughlin and husband Jerry, daughter Kelley Shrock, and grandson Janson Shrock (DBU Student)
DBU REPORT 14 HOME ON THE HILL Homecoming
SPRING 2022 15 Banners reading “Home on the Hill” flew all around campus. The alumni tent was set up and fully stocked with goodies for the DBU Family. The floats, not yet touched, were begging to be pomped. The outdoor stage was set at the very top of the hill. From November 15th through the 20th, DBU celebrated homecoming in style and welcomed hundreds of Patriots—past and present—home. The week of festivities began on Monday at the float tip-off, where a number of student organizations joined together at the top of the hill to begin pomping their floats for Saturday’s parade. The following day, the DBU Patriots women’s volleyball team played at home, pulling a 3-0 Pats win. On Tuesday evening, the quad was filled with hungry students, as the annual Faculty/Staff Chili Cook-Off sponsored by the Student Government Association commenced at 6:30 pm. The judges’ votes were in, and the Graduate Affairs team took home the chili victory that night. As the hill began gearing up for a jam-packed weekend of excitement, the Homecoming Pepsi Break on Wednesday evening was a much needed time for Patriots on campus to join together and take a break from the hustle and bustle of classwork. One of DBU’s most beloved traditions took place on Thursday evening. Mr. Patriot, a male talent contest featuring some of DBU’s brightest, provided an overflowing abundance of laughs, impressive musical talent, and scripted (and unscripted) fun. Bohn Crain was ultimately crowned Mr. Patriot and was awarded his Patriot coat and cap by the 2020 Mr. Patriot, Jansen Wonders. On Friday, DBU welcomed a number of alumni back to campus for dinner on the quad and the Patriot Rally, led by the Patriettes Dance Team and Cheer and Stunt Team. The DBU Alumni Association gave out Alumni Awards prior to the Cody Fry Concert. Friday was a night full of great music, great company, and a great firework show to conclude the evening. Dr. Tom Vann received the 2021 Honorary Alumnus Award. He has served as the Director of the Chaplaincy Program and Professor
DBU REPORT 16 of Christian Ministry in the Graduate School of Ministry at DBU since 2010 after serving over twenty-four years as a Chaplain in the Colorado Army National Guard, U.S. Army, and U.S. Army Reserve. Upon being named an honorary alumnus, Dr. Vann joins others in his family to be a DBU alumni as his wife, Marta, and 5 of their 6 children are graduates of DBU (pictured bottom left). Dr. Darin Wood received the 2021 Distinguished Alumnus Award. A 1990 graduate of DBU, Dr. Wood has faithfully served in the ministry since his time on University Hill. He is well known throughout Texas for his preaching, pastoral heart, and strong leadership. Currently he is the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Midland. He and his wife, Julie, have one son, Joshua (picture bottom right). Following the Friday night festivities, Saturday kicked off with a number of alumni receptions around campus. The Homecoming Parade kicked-off at 3:00 pm and featured the Patriettes and Cheer and Stunt Team, DBU’s Basketball team, this year’s homecoming court nominees, and a lineup full of DBU student organizations who worked tirelessly on their floats all week. The Homecoming Tailgate brought a carnival feel to campus, as live music, fun food, and a number of activities were spread across the parking lot before the Homecoming Basketball game at 6:00 pm. During halftime, the members of the
SPRING 2022 17 homecoming court for each class were named, and Mateo Mejia and Camille Pardo were crowned DBU’s 2021 Homecoming King and Queen. Following the basketball game, the Bonfire Bash brought this historic homecoming week to an end. To keep updated on all future DBU alumni events, be sure to visit dbu.edu/alumni.
DBU REPORT 18 December Commencement Dr. Gail Linam Awarded Honorary Doctorate On December 17, DBU held two Commencement services in Pilgrim Chapel to celebrate the winter graduates of 2021 with a total of 427 graduates, awarding 269 undergraduate, 147 graduate, and 11 doctoral degrees. Addresses were given by Dr. Mary Nelson, Director of the Ph.D. in Leadership Studies program (10:00 a.m.), and by MBA graduate Zac Funderburk (3:00 p.m.). At the morning service, the honorary Doctor of Humanities degree was awarded to Dr. Gail Linam, who has served in various academic administrative capacities at the University for over thirty years, most notably leading DBU through three of its last ten-year accreditation reviews (1998, 2008, and 2018) by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSOC). Dr. Linam currently serves as the Academic Dean and Institutional Accreditation Liaison, directing Dr. Mary Nelson, Director of the Ph.D. in Leadership Studies program, gives the address in the morning commencement service.
SPRING 2022 19 numerous initiatives for continuous improvement of teaching and learning at the University. A graduate of Baylor University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Linam began her career as a public school educator in Austin, followed by service as Minister of Childhood Education at Calvary Baptist Church in Waco, before beginning her tenure at DBU in 1989. Since then, she has served in many roles, which have included University Provost, Vice President for Undergraduate Affairs, Dean of the College of Education, and Executive Director of the Women’s Auxiliary Board. Dr. Linam also helped advance the University to a Level V institution, resulting in approval for DBU to begin offering doctoral programs. She was the primary advocate of DBU’s service-learning initiatives and helped to establish the new Center for Mentoring. Dr. Linam is the recipient of the DBU Women’s Auxiliary Board Ruth Award and was twice honored by the Student Affairs division as Outstanding Organization Advisor of the Year. Dr. Linam is married to Dennis, who previously served as DBU’s Vice President for External Affairs, and they have three children, Angela, Diane, and Brooks, and one grandson, Spencer. They are active members of First Baptist Church in Arlington. “It was our great pleasure to grant this honorary doctorate to our dear friend and colleague Dr. Gail Linam,” said DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright. “She has been such an outstanding and dedicated servant leader at this University for so many years and has made an important contribution to DBU’s becoming a leading institution of Christ-centered higher education.” MBA graduate Zac Funderburk and DBU Chancellor Dr. Gary Cook
DBU REPORT 20 CLINT HURDLE HEADLINES 30TH ANNUAL PATRIOT BASEBALL BANQUET The 30th Annual DBU Patriot Baseball Banquet once again welcomed a sold-out crowd to the campus to celebrate Patriot Baseball and kick off the 2022 season. This year, guests had the opportunity to honor past Patriot greats Josh Causey and Jason Krizan, congratulate former player Jackson Glenn, hear from Head Coach Dan Heefner, and experience a special interview with legendary MLB player and manager, Clint Hurdle. The evening kicked off as Reagan Ratcliff, the voice of DBU Baseball and Assistant Director of Athletics for Media Relations, sat down with Hurdle for a one-on-one interview that spanned Hurdle’s journey of 45 years in professional baseball, from player to manager. From his time as the ninth overall draft pick by the Kansas City Royals, to moving into the coaching role, Hurdle described life on the field and behind the scenes. In 1978, Sports Illustrated dubbed Hurdle as “This Year’s Phenom” on the cover of their magazine. Two years later, Hurdle and the Kansas City Royals reached the World Series where they eventually fell in six games to the Philadelphia Phillies. Following his 11-year playing career, Hurdle spent time in the minor leagues as a hitting coach and manager before breaking back into the Majors, and in 2002, he was named the manager for the Colorado Rockies. After eight seasons in Colorado, Hurdle joined the Texas Rangers in 2010 as their hitting coach and saw the Rangers advance to their firstever World Series. In 2011, Hurdle became manager of the Pittsburgh
SPRING 2022 21 Pirates, and at season’s end in 2013, Hurdle was named the National League Manager of the Year. Beyond his accomplishments on the diamond, Hurdle discussed how his faith in Christ transformed his life, giving him a purpose in life to make an internal impact for God’s kingdom. Following the Q&A with Hurdle, DBU Head Baseball Coach Dan Heefner shared his thoughts on the upcoming season and his 2022 Patriot team that returns 17 lettermen from a team that won the Missouri Valley Conference regular-season and tournament titles, clinched the Fort Worth Regional, and reached the Columbia Super Regional. DBU also welcomes a recruiting class that was ranked No. 18 by Baseball America. Jackson Glenn was honored as the 2021 Howard Green SABR Metroplex Player of the Year. Glenn, who returned last year as a fifth-year senior ranked as one of the top offensive players in college baseball in 2021, finished the year with 21 home runs, a mark that ranked most in the nation, while hitting a team-best .366 with 19 doubles, and 55 RBI. DBU Baseball also paid tribute to Patriot legends Josh Causey and Jason Krizan, who were each inducted into the DBU Sports Circle of Honor. Causey played at DBU from 2000-2003, was an NAIA First Team All-American in 2002, and his 24 home runs in 2002 are tied for the most in a single-season in program history. Krizan starred for the Patriots from 2008-2011, garnered All-American honors in both 2009 and 2011, and set the NCAA single-season record for doubles (39) in 2011. Guest speaker Clint Hurdle and DBU Assistant Director of Athletics for Media Relations Reagan Ratcliff DBU also honored Terry Eaton with the Patriot Legends Award. A long-time fan of DBUAthletics who passed away in late December, Eaton was a fan favorite at Horner Ballpark and attended Patriot sporting events for many years. His passion for Christ and love for people could be seen in Terry Eaton’s smile and his ability to connect with people of all ages. The award was presented to his wife, Jennifer, as she received a standing ovation from the crowd in attendance. The Patriots opened their season on Friday, February 18, hosting Southeast Missouri at Horner Ballpark, and are eyeing yet another trip to the NCAA postseason. Tickets to all DBU home games are available at dbutickets.com. DBU Head Baseball Coach Dan Heefner
DBU REPORT 22 Read more from students who traveled this Spring Break here! dbu.edu/springbreaktrips Patriots Travel for Spring Break WASHINGTON D.C. In Washington D.C., 26 students were challenged to think about past leaders to better understand who they are each becoming as leaders for the future. The group had the opportunity to learn on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial overlooking the National Mall, visit Arlington Cemetery, Mt. Vernon, Monticello, and travel to colonial Williamsburg. Led by DBU President Dr. Adam Wright, Dr. Nick Pitts, and Dr. Brent Taylor, this unique travel study emphasized servant leadership as displayed throughout American history. NEW YORK CITY (ART & DESIGN/ FINE ARTS) The New York City study tour blended the Art & Design in NYC course taught by Dr. Jim Hutchinson and the Introduction to Fine Arts course taught by Dr. Bob Brooks. Together, these Patriots were able to visit many remarkable sites throughout the trip including the CooperHewitt Museum, The Poster House, the Society of Illustrators, The Frick Museum, and the Gershwin Theatre to watch Wicked on Broadway. Each of the 12 students was able to hone their crafts and find venues that appealed to their personal interests. NEW YORK CITY (URBAN CHURCH PLANTING) The Graduate School of Ministry sponsored an Urban Church Planting travel study in New York City led by DBU Professor of Missions Dr. Mark Alexander. While on their trip, students were able to serve the neighborhood of Bushwick through a partnership with a local church. Students were also given valuable opportunities to share the gospel with individuals they contacted in the community and learned how to effectively share their faith with the many different demographics and cultures represented in NYC. BEACH REACH 35 DBU Patriots joined nearly 300 “Beach Reachers” at South Padre Island, Texas, to serve while on their Spring Break. Throughout the week, students took shifts serving midnight pancake breakfasts in a bar parking lot, gave free rides to hundreds of Spring Breakers, and spent all night in prayer for the island, all with the goal to have gospel conversations. CIVIL RIGHTS SITE TOUR Dr. Jack Goodyear and Dr. Rodney Garret led 14 students on a Civil Rights Site Tour throughout the South. A mixture of doctoral, graduate, and undergraduate students were given the opportunity to visit vital landmarks of American Civil Rights history, including the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, the Edmund Pettus Bridge, and the Memorial to Peace and Justice in Montgomery. Each site visited was both powerfully moving and humbling to all those in attendance. DBU Alumnus and 2016 Student Government Association President Stephen Boyd (center), who works for Sen. James Lankford (R-OK), along with current DBU SGA President Lane Cabler (right) and Vice President Katelyn Gudenau (left).
SPRING 2022 23 God Prepared Her Way MathMajor Joelle Newton As it came time for Joelle Newton to graduate high school and choose which college she would attend, Joelle’s grandmother was the one to suggest Dallas Baptist University. To understand why, one needs to travel back nearly 60 years, over 40 years before Joelle was even born. Joelle’s grandmother, Joanne Dickey (Berglund at the time), attended Austin College in Sherman, Texas. There, she met a young lady named Sally Robinson, who became her roommate and sorority sister. The two became close friends and they continued to stay in touch through the years. After graduating, Sally met and married a young man named Jim Nation, and the two began their life together, eventually becoming some of the most well-loved and dedicated friends of Dallas Baptist University. Visitors driving onto campus are most familiar with Jim and Sally Nation Hall, which houses the Gary Cook School of Leadership, a wonderful tribute to the Nations’ faithfulness and generosity to the DBU Family. One day, Joanne Dickey attended DBU’s annual Hymn Sing on campus with her church group. While on campus, she asked to be added to the DBU Report mailing list, and while flipping through a copy one day, she noticed a familiar face—her former roommate and friend, Sally. After reading more about DBU and the Nations’ involvement, Joanne suggested that her granddaughter, Joelle, look into attending school on University Hill. “We took a tour and fell in love,” Joy Newton (Joelle’s mother) says. However, there was one obstacle to overcome before Joelle committed to life as a Patriot. “DBU was a school just out of reach for financial reasons,” Joelle says. After Joanne mentioned her granddaughter’s interest in DBU to Sally, the Nations graciously offered Joelle a scholarship, which provided Joelle the means to attend and pursue a degree in mathematics. As Joelle explains, “The Nation Scholarship was the help that allowed me to come to DBU and continue my education here.” After arriving on campus, Joelle interviewed with the Athletics Department and began in a parttime student worker position with DBU Baseball tracking pitches as a statistician, and shortly there after, she became the team’s Video Coordinator. Because of her time spent with the baseball team in tandem with her mathematics degree, Joelle can successfully say she fulfilled what her mother encouraged her to do—combine what she loves (sports) with something she is gifted in (math). After nearly two years of being at DBU, Joelle had the opportunity to meet Sally and Jim Nation. Being able to meet and thank the Nations for the impact they have had on Joelle’s life through their generosity was priceless. “Who knew that back in her college days my grandmother and her roommate would have such a lasting effect that would bring me to DBU, right where I belong?,” Joelle asks. “God did.” To find out how you can help a DBU student by giving to an endowed scholarship fund, please contact DBU Chancellor Dr. Gary Cook at 214-333-5130.
DBU REPORT 24 NEWS&NOTES “I have to say that the richest part of receiving this recognition is knowing that it comes from being part of a community. This community has richly blessed me and has richly supported me. It is so good to be in a supportive academic community.” Dr. Karen Alexander has been a dedicated professor at DBU for nearly ten years, teaching both English and Spanish courses in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Dr. Alexander is passionate about the lives of her students both in and out of the classroom, seeks to establish thought-provoking instruction through deep reflection on writings of the past, and aims to foster relationships between students through a number of different instructional methods. It is because of all these reasons and more that Dr. Karen Alexander was named the 2021 Piper Outstanding Professor of the Year. Dr. Alexander was born in San Antonio, Texas. Because her father was in the Air Force, she grew up all around the globe, spending time in Ankara, Turkey; Dayton, Ohio; DALLAS BAPTIST UNIVERSITY’S PIPER OUTSTANDING PROFESSOR OF THE YEAR - DR. KAREN ALEXANDER - San Antonio, Texas; and the Philippines. As she moved into adulthood, her love for the nations grew, leading her to become a full-time missionary later in life. Dr. Alexander attended Baylor University, where she obtained her undergraduate degree, followed by a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at the University of Virginia. She went on to receive an M.A. and a Ph.D. from Baylor. Dr. Alexander completed her journey of higher education by conducting her post-doctoral work in Spanish at the Universidad Nacional de Córdoba in Argentina. Dr. Alexander has been married to her husband, Dr. Mark Alexander, for 40 years. He also serves as a professor at DBU, teaching intercultural studies in the College of Christian Faith and in the Graduate School of Ministry. Prior to their time in Dallas, the Alexanders served as missionaries with the International Mission Board for 25 years in Argentina. They have three adult children. The Alexanders first came to DBU after being introduced by their colleague Dr. Bob Garrett to Dr. Cook in 2012 upon returning to the U.S. to take care of their parents. Dr. Karen Alexander teaches English and Spanish classes, as well as upper-level courses in English literature such as courses on seventeenth century English poetry and Shakespeare, and surveys of literature from Spain and from Mexico.
SPRING 2022 25 Senior Professor of History Dr. Michael E. Williams, Sr., has recently released a sequel volume to his 2015 Witnesses to the Baptist Heritage (Mercer University Press). The new collection, edited by Williams and including essay contributions from several DBU professors along with a team of scholars from other academic institutions, includes 24 more stories of diverse men and women who have shaped the worldwide Baptist legacy. “I wanted to elevate the stories of many Baptist women and African American Baptists who served often as unsung heroes during those same periods,” reflects Dr. Williams in his introduction to the sequel volume. Obadiah Holmes, Ann Hasseltine Judson, Henry L. Morehouse, Augustus Strong, and Fannie Lou Hamer are among the many stories highlighted in More Witnesses to the Baptist Heritage: Twenty Four More Baptists Every Christian Should Know, which collectively illuminates the impact of Baptists upon the larger global Christian tradition in the areas of religious liberty, worship, education, missions, and social justice. These two volumes will serve as an excellent resource for surveying Baptist history through the MICHAEL E. WILLIAMS, SR., RELEASES SEQUEL ON BAPTIST HERITAGE inspiring stories of some of its most remarkable witnesses. For more information about Dr. Williams’ latest release, visit: www.mupress.org MBA STUDENTS HONORED BY TEXAS BUSINESS HALL OF FAME Chosen each year by evaluation of submitted applications, the Texas Business Hall of Fame Foundation awards individuals who show both dedication to, and promise in, the business world as college students. This past year, DBU was the home of two 2021 Scholar Award recipients, MBA students Grace Elliott and Forest Shoults. Grace Elliott In July of 2020, Grace launched her own floral and event design company, Grace Blooms Events. Since the launch of her business, she has designed and coordinated numerous events throughout the state of Texas and steadily grown her clientele. She uses her entrepreneurial experience and the foundation built from her studies in business hospitality and hotel at DBU to continue growing her business. Grace is known for her eye for detail and intricate designs. She is eager to continue to expand her work in the hospitality industry. Grace anticipates receiving her MBA with a specialty in marketing at DBU in May of 2023. Forest Shoults Forest and his wife, Dani, are the cofounders and owners at Mountaintop Films, an adventure elopement, wedding film, and photography company based in Dallas. Additionally, he has worked for East Jordan Iron Works as a territory sales representative for the past five years, increasing the sales 20-30% annually in the water infrastructure industry. Forest finished his undergraduate studies at DBU in 2016 with a degree in Business Administration and is looking forward to graduating with his MBA in Marketing in December 2022. In four years, Mountaintop Films has shot over 100 weddings in five different countries, and has been published in multiple bridal magazines. The Shoultses‘ goal is to open a series of studios that would each feature a creative workspace and a coffee shop to be used as a rented venue space for filming music videos and creating and capturing digital media for companies.
DBU REPORT 26 On Monday, January 17, 2022, Dallas Baptist University students, faculty, and staff joined together to recognize and remember the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In commitment to fostering servant leaders and in dedication to unity and reconciliation in our community, DBU continued in its eleven-year long tradition of participating in service activities as part of the annual national Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Following the Day of Service, Patriots gathered on DBU’s campus for DBU’s sixth annual Unity Walk. The Dr. William B. Dean Center for Service-Learning, under the direction of Desi Henk from the Center for Career and Professional Development, led 21 DBU student volunteers to serve at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Dallas for the MLK, Jr. Day of Service. Welcomed by Pastor Chris Simmons and his team, Patriots were divided into groups to help organize and clean the canned food pantry, serve meals in the kitchen, complete a landscaping project near the church, and build shelves in Cornerstone’s grocery store. Cornerstone’s commitment to serving the surrounding community is an inspiring example to DBU students and aligns with DBU’s desire to create peace and hope, even in dark times. At 4:00 p.m. that afternoon, the top of the hill was filled with Unity Walk participants made up of students, faculty, and staff. Beginning in front of the Collins Learning Center, student officers of the Black Student Union led in a time of prayer, a reading from Scripture, and a reflection on the legacy of Dr. King. Following this, the group proceeded together through the Quad before stopping at the cross next to Pilgrim Chapel for a time of further prayer, words from DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright, and the traditional recitation of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech by Rev. Bertrain Bailey, DBU alumnus and trustee and pastor of St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Dallas. “Reflecting on the history behind us and striving toward a brighter future before us,” shared Dr. Wright, “DBU’s annual Unity Walk is a time to join together as the body of Christ to remember influential historical figures like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and to proclaim our hope in the power of Christ to overcome division. With humble hearts and minds set on harmony, DBU desires to send new peacemakers and servant leaders out into the world, all through the power of Christ alone.” DBU JOINS TOGETHER FOR MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. DAY OF SERVICE AND SIXTH ANNUAL UNITY WALK
SPRING 2022 27 The DBU Family welcomed Dr. Paul Haidostian all the way from Beirut, Lebanon, to speak at the 2022 Gallup Distinguished Lecture Series, beginning with his lesson shared with students in the morning Chapel service. Through telling his story, Dr. Haidostian beautifully articulated the battle between earthly pain and heavenly fulfillment. “I was 13 in 1975 when the war started and I started seeing things as I traveled on my way and back to and from school: killings, explosions, our apartment was shelled twice, and so much more. And after all this, I am here dear friends to tell you that our story as a people, as Armenians, is not a story of pain,” says Dr. Haidostian. “Pain is part of our past, but we move on with grace. That’s why in Romans 5:20 it says ‘where sin increases, grace abounds all the more.’ The story of grace is a victorious story. But remember: pain is part of our understanding of what grace means.” Dr. Haidostian continued by saying, “I am here from Beirut to tell you that looking for an easy life does not bring fulfillment. Looking for fulfillment in Christ alone does. The Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians that, ‘You are not your own. You were bought at a price.’ Our faith fails when we live our Christian life as if we are our own. But you are not your own. Go and glorify Him, for in Him, you will find abundant grace, even after pain.” At the noon luncheon with faculty and staff, Dr. Haidostian continued this theme and spoke of four dynamics of spirituality he learned growing up in Lebanon amid the crises of civil war, enduring the struggle between the harsh realities of pain in a fallen world and finding fulfillment in fellowship with Christ. “If pain is an experience of life, then fulfillment will be the purpose of life. If pain is a worldly limitation or loss of extreme or manageable proportions, then fulfillment would be the freeing outcome,” shared Dr. Haidostian. To be lost and be restored; to fall and rise; to receive and share; to recognize the past and embrace the future. According to Haidostian, pain teaches us these deeper lessons that “large gates and wide roads” of life would never do. We must find fulfillment in fellowship with Christ not in a path of ease, comfort, and plenty, but on the narrow road of suffering through self-giving, service, humility, and favoring the weak. Through the realities of sin and death, our hope is in the power of His grace and resurrection. Dr. Haidostian became President of Haigazian University in Beirut in 2002, which was founded in 1955 as a joint endeavor of the Armenian Missionary Association of America and the Union of Armenian Evangelical Churches in the Near East. He earned a bachelor of arts in psychology from Haigazian, an M.Div. from the Near East School of Theology in Beirut, and a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary. He serves as the Chair of the Central Committee of the Union of Armenian Evangelical Churches in the Near East. The Gallup Distinguished Lecture Series was established at DBU in the spring of 2003 by George Gallup, Jr. Mr. Gallup, who passed away in 2011, was internationally recognized as a foremost expert on survey research and scientific polling. His career was dedicated to helping society better understand the contemporary context, and as a dedicated Christian, his lifetime of service has been particularly important to people of faith. 2022 GALLUP DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES GUEST SPEAKER DR. PAUL HAIDOSTIAN Earthly Pain and Heavenly Fulfillment Dr. Haidostian speaks with faculty and staff at the noon luncheon “The story of grace is a victorious story. But remember: pain is part of our understanding of what grace means.”
DBU REPORT 28 RELIGIOUS LIBERTY IN CRISIS: INSTITUTE FOR GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT HOSTS JUDGE KEN STARR On February 23, the Institute for Global Engagement featured a special conversation with Judge Ken Starr who discussed the theme of his recent book, Religious Liberty in Crisis: Exercising Your Faith in an Age of Uncertainty (Encounter Books, 2021). Judge Starr holds a J.D. from Duke University Law School and has argued 36 cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. He is past President and Chancellor of Baylor University and former Dean of the Pepperdine School of Law. For 25 years, he taught as an adjunct and visiting professor at five law schools, was a partner at two national law firms, and has served on several legal boards. Judge Starr is author of more than 25 publications and is the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions and three honorary doctorates. Lee Bratcher, Executive Director of the Institute for Global Engagement, welcomed those gathered in the Great Hall and introduced Dr. Adam C. Wright, DBU President, who shared opening remarks about the important vision behind the IGE and spoke of the urgency of this conversation on current and coming challenges to religious liberty in America. “When I visit different college presidents across the country—large, small, private, Christian colleges and universities and those not of the Christian faith—the common theme in terms of one of the greatest threats facing us today in America is that of our religious liberty and freedoms,” said Dr. Wright. An opening prayer was given by Dr. Randel Everett, who serves as President of 21st Wilberforce Initiative, before Dr. Jim Denison, CEO of Denison Ministries and a fellow of the IGE, introduced Judge Starr and led the evening’s conversation. “The founding generation knew that without religious liberty there would not be freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of the people to peacefully assemble to petition the government for redress of grievances,” said Starr. Stories of recent misapplications of the Establishment Clause, such as in efforts to restrict voluntary religious clubs from meeting on public school property, are cause for alarm that the coming “tsunami” against religious liberty is already here. Yet Starr expressed his optimism in the duty of the Supreme Court to defend these “great principles” enshrined in our Constitution and urged believers, like the Apostle Paul in Acts 17, to understand this cultural moment in our democracy and thoughtfully engage the marketplace of ideas. Keep up with the latest events from the IGE by visiting dbu.edu/IGE. Dr. Jim Denison and Judge Starr
SPRING 2022 29 PATRIOTATHLETICS The DBU Women’s Soccer team finished third in the final United Soccer Coaches Top 25 poll of the year. The ranking places DBU alongside the nation’s top teams, trailing only the reigning national champion, Grand Valley State, and runner-up, College of Saint Rose, in the postseason standings. DBU RANKED THIRD IN FINAL UNITED SOCCER COACHES POLL The No. 3 Patriots rewrote the record books on their run to the program’s first-ever Final Four. DBU’s 20-4 campaign marked the most wins in school history. Additionally, the Patriots clinched their third straight Lone Star Conference regular-season title with a 12-1 conference record and an unbeaten 7-0 mark on the road. The Patriots’ 69 goals scored are the most in program history. The offense set a school record with 57 assists, nine more than the 2012 squad. DBU placed a league-high nine Patriots on All-Conference Teams and generated five AllRegion selections, two Academic All-Americans, and three AllAmericans.
DBU REPORT 30 For the second year in a row, and for the 14th time in 15 years, the DBU Women’s Cross Country team took home the Lone Star Conference Championship. Junior Madison Brown (Round Rock, TX) led the Patriots across the line during the championship meet, finishing fourth overall with a time of 22:13.45. “It’s an honor to be on this team. I didn’t even think I would be here,” said Madison Brown. “It was a rough summer, so coming out and running for this team, let alone leading this team, is a blessing.” Senior Rylee Cristan (Keller, TX), Freshman Kaycee Keller (La Vernia, TX), and 5th-Year Senior Jenna Thorman (Plano, TX), finished 6th, 7th, and 8th. Seniors Marissa (McKinney, TX) and Abril Escamilla (Laredo, TX) wrapped up the scorers, finishing 10th and 11th. DBU WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY FINISH TOP IN CONFERENCE ONCE AGAIN Keller’s race was especially dominant for first-year runners, earning her the Freshman of the Year by leading all freshman on the day. Following their conference title, the team competed in the NCAA Division II South Central Regional, coming in strong with a sixth place finish. Their effort provided them with an at-large bid to the NCAA Division II National Championships, where they finished 17th, the highest the team has ever finished at Nationals. “We’ve been putting in the work all season,” explained Head Coach Jacob Philips, who was named the 2021 Lone Star Conference Cross Country Coach of the year. “We train long, knowing those extra miles will benefit us when the race distance bumps up. I could not be more proud of our team.” The Cross Country team turns its attention to the indoor track this Spring as they strive to bring a national title to University Hill. To stay on top of all the latest Patriot Athletics news and victories, visit dbupatriots.com.
SPRING 2022 31 VAN POPPEL’S EXTRAORDINARY HOMECOMING HAS BEEN YEARS IN THE MAKING By Jason Lippert In her lone season at DBU, Halee Van Poppel became just the second AllAmerican in program history when the American Volleyball Coaches Association recognized the Patriots’ outside hitter as an NCAA Division II Honorable Mention All-American at season’s end. A senior transfer from Belmont University, a Division I program located in Nashville, Tennessee, Halee made the decision to return to the Lone Star state to finish out her collegiate career. A native of nearby Argyle, Texas, Halee wanted to return to her roots for her final year of eligibility. “I knew this was where I wanted to be,” Halee said. “Being able to play close to home and also have an extra year to compete is a blessing. I’ve been so thankful for this opportunity.” For Halee, family is everything. Her father, Todd Van Poppel, carved out a successful MLB career over the course of 11 seasons before retiring in 2005. Despite not pushing for his kids to play sports, his competitive spirit permeated throughout the family. “He really influenced my mental approach to the game and to life. It’s been awesome to have him in my life and to grow up with that background in sports.” Halee explored her options, ultimately falling in love with Belmont University and Nashville. Halee began her college career at Belmont, completing her double major in chemistry and biology while also being a stand-out player on the court. When COVID impacted college sports and provided her an extra year of eligibility, she decide to start her master’s work and looked to move back home. Halee did not take long to adjust to life at DBU, stepping up in practice and filling a leadership role on a roster with several new faces. “Halee has always been a lead-by-example player,” coach Jordan Fish shared, who sought to recruit Halee through the transfer portal. “Other teammates have seen that and said ‘I want to be like that.’ She’s our floor captain.” Halee didn’t skip a beat from her time at Belmont, posting double-digit kills in 19 straight matches to open the season. Her offensive excellence resulted in a conference-leading 4.41 kills per set, a mark that was 7th-best among all Division II student-athletes. Halee’s all-out effort culminated in not only All-American honors, but she also became the first player in program history to be named LSC Newcomer of the Year and the first DBU Volleyball player to garner First Team honors since 2017. Her competitive nature has been a large factor in the Lady Patriots’ turnaround in 2021. DBU finished with a 14-8 record, marking the highest win percentage since 2013. While she has concluded the final chapter of her collegiate career, Halee is excited for whatever comes next. “I want to be a part of the medical field. I have a passion for people and want to help serve,” explained Halee. “I just want people to know that I have loved being able to wear ‘DBU’ across my chest. It has meant a lot. I want this team and our fans to know that I’ve been playing for them, and that I’m so thankful for the opportunity to play this game back home.”
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