WINTER 2023-2024 1 THE DBU REPORT Winter 2023 - 24 | vol. 36 no. 3 Home on the Hill The DBU Family comes together on top of University Hill to celebrate Homecoming 2023
WINTER 2023-2024 2 4 2023 DBU Leadership Gala 10 Patriot Fall Travels 13 Dr. Randel Everett Joins DBU 14 Home on the Hill 18 Winter Commencement DBU BASKETBALL ON HISTORIC RUN 20 News & Notes 25 Patriot Athletics 28 In Memory of Mrs. Sheila Cook 32 General David Petraeus Visits DBU The DBU Patriots continue to light up the Burg with win after win as the men’s basketball team is in the midst of its best season ever. Senior Guard Ta’Jay Dunlap
WINTER 2023-2024 3 The DBU Report is a quarterly publication of Dallas Baptist University. Dr. Adam C. Wright, President. Executive Editor: Dr. Blake Killingsworth; Managing Editor: Courtney Smith; Design Editor: Kadra Fant, Senior Graphic Designer. Contributors: Exauce Madjibe Dijo, Director of Visual Communications; Cameron Billings, Assistant Director of Visual Communications; Dr. Michael Whiting, Director of Written Content; Reagan Ratcliff, Assistant Director of Athletics for Media Relations; Allison Clancy; Emma Frank; Grace Rutherford; Bethany Sikute. DBU Report, 3000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas 752119299. news@dbu.edu.
WINTER 2023-2024 4 For 36 years, the DBU Leadership Gala has honored outstanding individuals whose lives are testimonies of achievements in free enterprise, service to the community, and support of Christ-centered education at Dallas Baptist University. Established in 1988, sponsorship of the DBU Leadership Gala provides funds that go toward scholarships for students seeking a transformative educational experience at DBU. This year brought in the most scholarship funds to date in the 36-year history of the program. The DBU Leadership Gala, held on November 6 in the Chantilly Ballroom of the Hilton Anatole, honored Jim and Sally Nation as recipients of this year’s Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award and Bob Lilly as the recipient of the Tom Landry Leadership Award. Jim and Sally Nation, founders of the Nation Foundation, help to provide grants to institutions of higher education and civic organizations. Jim has served in the engineering and manufacturing sectors throughout his career. Currently, he serves as Chairman of the Board of First Co., a leader and innovator in the HVAC industry. The Nations are strong supporters of education and are long-standing friends of DBU, supporting the mission and vision through their generosity DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright, Jim and Sally Nation, Kaye Dawn and Holt Lunsford 36th ANNUAL DBU LEADERSHIP GALA honors Jim and Sally Nation RUSSELL H. PERRY FREE ENTERPRISE AWARD & Bob Lilly TOM LANDRY LEADERSHIP AWARD
WINTER 2023-2024 5 Dr. Adam C. Wright, Bob Lilly, Roger Staubach, and Kaye Dawn and Holt Lunsford Scott Turner The DBU Grand Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Joshua Brown, DBU Director of Choral Studies and influence. Passionate about developing servant leaders, Jim and Sally helped establish Nation Hall, which houses the Gary Cook School of Leadership at DBU. Jim and Sally have also served on the DBU Board of Trustees, and Sally has previously served as president of the DBU Women’s Auxiliary Board. Bob Lilly, affectionately known by many as “Mr. Cowboy,” is a beloved Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman with a 14-year career on America’s team under the leadership of Coach Landry. In 1980, Lilly was the first Dallas Cowboy to be inducted into the Professional Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Sporting News also named Lilly as number 10 of the 100 greatest NFL players. “Our DBU Mission is to prepare Christ-centered servant leaders for a world in desperate need,” says Dr. Adam C. Wright, DBU President. “I look forward each year to have the opportunity to honor distinguished individuals who exhibit the kind of exemplary and faithful leadership we want to be true of our students and future graduates. Jim and Sally Nation and Bob Lilly are dear friends and supporters of DBU’s mission, and it was a privilege this year to recognize them for their outstanding public witness as Christian leaders.”
WINTER 2023-2024 6 Pete Delkus Julia Nordeen, Janis and Roy Coffee, Frankie and Gerald Horn, Lindsey and Tanner Nordeen Jalyah James, Jennifer James, Mary and Fred Moses, Daphne Mitchell, Eustice Mitchell, and Don McKneely Drs. Millie and Ken Cooper David and Jean Dean Dave and Jane Matthiesen along with Raymond and Marydel Harris
WINTER 2023-2024 7 2023 Jim and Sally Nation 2022 David B. Walls 2021 Clark Hunt 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. 2007 Andy and Joan Horner 2006 David A. Dean 2005 Pete Schenkel 2004 Noble Hurley (posthumously) RUSSELL H. PERRY FREE ENTERPRISE AWARD 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 Kenneth H. Cooper 1991 Tom Landry 1990 Maurice and Ebby Halliday Acers 1989 Trammell Crow 1988 John M. Stemmons, Sr. TOM LANDRY LEADERSHIP AWARD Previous Recipients 2023 Bob Lilly 2022 David B. Walls 2019 Bill and Bobbie Pinson 2018 David Moon 2017 Paul and Charla Vinyard 2016 Jim Denison 2015 William B. Tolar 2014 Gil Stricklin 2013 Tillie Burgin 2012 Fred Moses 2011 Wayne Stevenson 2010 Jeff Warren 2009 Mike Simpson 2008 Jack Graham 2007 Sam Johnson Dennis Lindsay (center), along with his children, Hawni and Golan Sondra and Ron Skaggs 2023 DINNER COMMITTEE Holt and Kaye Dawn Lunsford, Chairs Art Alexander Bob Anderson Zach Bean C.T. “Sparkey” Beckham Lee Bratcher Jonny Cantwell Judge Oswin Chrisman John Clem Gary Cook Millie Cooper David Dean Daniel Edwards Robert Engels Stacey Beckham Gould Casey Gurganus Raymond Harris Ray and Carol Harvey Marshall Hodge Ann Lilly Mark Lovvorn Fred Moses Christy Nation R. Edwin Pearce Boone Powell, Jr. Ron Skaggs Jonathan Skidmore Shannen Smith Bryan Stevenson Dan Turner Scott Turner Aaron Vann Jane Weempe Adam C. Wright
WINTER 2023-2024 8 SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS WHO HAVE GIVEN TO SUPPORT STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS UNDERWRITER Holt and Kaye Dawn Lunsford BENEFACTOR Art and Linda Alexander Mr. and Mrs. C.T. “Sparkey” Beckham Mr. and Mrs. Raymond C. Harvey III The Nation Foundation Harold and Mildred Sadler Texas Baptists FREEDOM COUNCIL Atmos Energy Austin Industries Pryor and Sue Blackwell Meriam Calabria Gerald L. and Frankie L. Horn Fred Moses/Telecom Electric Supply The Pilgrim Family/Pilgrim Bancorporation Patsy R. Smith Meredith and Jack Woodworth ENTERPRISE COUNCIL Jenny and Jay Allison Dyan and Bob Anderson Arcosa, Inc. Babes Chicken Baylor Scott & White Health Robert and Deanya Cocanougher Deans Stepp Law Elleco Construction/Master Construction Frost Bank Gibson Dunn Gittings Carroll and Casey Gurganus Wayne and Kara Hamilton Raymond and Marydel Harris HighGround Advisors Marshall and Janet Hodge Hodges Capital Kirkland & Ellis LLP Park Cities Baptist Church Deacons Melanie Rogers/In Loving Memory of Bill Rogers Dr. Allen and Elaine Schneider Bryan and Lacey Stevenson Wayne and Thuy Stevenson Superior Landscapes UBS Financial Services, Inc. Joan and Alan Walne Mark and Becky Wells CHAIRMAN’S BOARD BMA Architects Christ For The Nations In Memory of Dr. Charlene Conner/ Patrick J. Conner & Janet Elaine Stoker Dr. and Mrs. Gary Cook Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Cooper Cooper Clinic David and Jean Dean/Dean International, Inc/ NDMCE Consulting Civil Engineers East-West Ministries Carl and Gail Hefton JCI Investments Inc. Dr. and Mrs. Charles Ku Dan and Andrea Neal Boone and Peggy Powell Prestonwood Baptist Church Riverside Education Scott and Carla Robinson Rose-Mary Rumbley Service First Janitorial Dan and Julie Turner Lee Ann and Steve VanAmburgh Family Foundation Gretchen Minyard Williams Woodmont Cabinetry World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth Dr. and Mrs. Adam C. Wright PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL ACP Foundation and Haoran Li Dr. Greg and Lisa Ammons Anonymous Baker Botts L.L.P. Zach and Brittni Bean Buckner International Linda C. Buford Kevin and Kathleen Cantwell Judge and Mrs. Oswin Chrisman John and Carole Clem Mrs. Evelyn Collier Dr. David and Nicole Cook Criswell College Keith and Sarah Crouch Dallas Baptist Association/The Heights Church Dr. Denny and Mrs. Candy Dowd Matthew and Jaycee Duce Dr. Daniel Edwards Excel Commercial Painting Co. First Baptist Dallas John and Nita Ford Herschel and Cindy Forester John and Stacey Beckham Gould Beth and Kevin Grace Guidestone Financial Resources Robert and Jane Gunn Ryan and Sarah Hefton Dr. Stephen and Mrs. Patty Holcomb Jordan and Brooke Kennedy Jack Leonhard and Olivia Barnes Dennis and Gail Linam Lion’s Den Mr. and Mrs. William H. Moulton, III Matt and Karen Murrah Mr. Erle A. Nye, Sr. R. Edwin and Cheryl Pearce Dorothy Renfrow Pat and Pete Schenkel Scottish Rite for Children George Shafer Ronald and Sondra Skaggs Jonathan and Lisa Skidmore Sloan Investment Management, LLC Jeff Smith Bobby and Kim Soto Mary Stuart Dr. Brent Taylor Texans On Mission Texas Baptist Missions Foundation Jim and Julie Turner US China Chamber of Commerce Aaron and Kim Vann/Chick-fil-A 75 and Campbell Veritex Community Bank Cherry and Roger Williams With Gratitude
WINTER 2023-2024 9 Dr. Peter and Linda Dysert (left), along with Beth and Kevin Grace Dr. Stephen and Marilyn Mansfield Dr. Blair and Lauren Robinson Dr. Allen and Elaine Schneider; Brenda and Joe Brown Dan and Julie Turner; Carroll and Casey Gurganus Jane and Robert Gunn
WINTER 2023-2024 10 Patriots Around the World LONDON London Led by Dr. David Cook, Dr. Jodi Grimes, Dr. Cicely Jefferson, and Professor H. Rick Jordan, 26 DBU students and four professors embarked across the pond to London, learning on-site about the rich history, valiant leaders, bustling business, and iconic literature of the United Kingdom. Students enjoyed a walking tour on the streets of London to view Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace, attended a service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, and strolled through Churchill’s underground War Rooms. English students toured the Charles Dickens Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and the Canterbury Cathedral. Business and leadership students toured some of London’s most well-known businesses and visited a number of the city’s beloved small start-ups. On the last day, groups joined back together for a day spent learning from local believers at the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity (LICC) and Leslie Hall at Shoreditch Church. LONDON fall 2023 LONDON
WINTER 2023-2024 11 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC HAWAII Dominican Republic DBU students, faculty, and staff spent a week in the Dominican Republic leading camps and sharing the Gospel with local children and youth as well as helping with various painting and clean-up projects in the communities they visited. Shelby Weatherly, Director of Global Missions, also helped to lead 11 students to serve in the Dominican Republic with ministry partner Palabra de Vida. Marcelo Diez, a DBU alumnus, hosted the group who was given the opportunity to participate in a skit that presents the Gospel at local schools. Students were also able to partner and serve with young adults who live at the Palabra de Vida camp. Hawaii Dr. Ross O’Brien, Director of the Graduate School of Business, led a group of aspiring business entrepreneur students to the beautiful island of Hawaii to learn about the coffee industry, visiting local farms and specialty coffee shops. Students made presentations on the history, geography, sociology, economics, and business of coffee, as well as how the industry of coffee production and sales is alleviating poverty and providing opportunities to spread the good news of Jesus. HAWAII DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
WINTER 2023-2024 12 Patriots Around the World ROME rome/athens ATHENS continued CORINTH Over Winter Break, a group of undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. students traveled to Athens, Greece and Rome, Italy to study leadership, religion, and business in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. After landing in Athens, students visited the Acropolis, the Areopagus (known today as Mars Hill), and the Agora. These eager learners then traveled to Ancient Corinth, where they were given the opportunity to see Paul’s epistles come to life. After ringing in the New Year watching fireworks above the beautiful Greek skyline, the group continued their journey to Rome, Italy. From the Mamertine Prison to the Vatican and Sistine Chapel to the iconic Colosseum and Roman Forum, students truly made the world their classroom. Outside of time spent learning on site, dinners with DBU faculty allowed students time to process and reflect deeply about all the lectures, tours, and assignments given throughout their time together.
WINTER 2023-2024 13 DR. RANDEL EVERETT NAMED DBU SENIOR FELLOW FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM, TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF GLOBAL LEADERS This spring, DBU welcomed Dr. Randel Everett as its first Senior Fellow for Religious Freedom. Through this role, Dr. Everett will help the Institute for Global Engagement expand its mission to become a thoughtleader in the area of Christian commitment and cultural renewal. Dr. Everett joins the DBU Family after serving for the past decade as the Founding President of the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative, an organization dedicated to championing human rights and religious liberty around the globe. Through his work with Wilberforce, Dr. Everett traveled the world seeking to be a voice for those caught in the middle of religious persecution. “We are thrilled to have Dr. Everett as a part of the IGE and to share his expertise and passion with our campus community,” explained Jonathan Fechner, Executive Director of the IGE. Prior to his work with the 21st Century Wilberforce Initiative, Dr. Everett served in a variety of roles within Baptist life. For several years, he was Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Midland, Texas, and prior to that, he was the Executive Director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. During his time with the BGCT, he led the efforts to rally Texas Baptists around Texas Hope 2010, an initiative to spread the Gospel across the state. In addition, he helped to launch the Texas Hunger Initiative through the Texas Baptists Christian Life Commission. Dr. Everett has also pastored several churches in Arkansas, Florida, Virginia, and Texas; was founding president of the John Leland Center for Theological Studies in Falls Church, Virginia; and served as Chair of the 2015 Baptist World Alliance World Congress. “Dr. Everett has the rare combination of passion and vision with the ability to bring both together to accomplish Kingdom work,” said Dr. Adam C. Wright, DBU President. “His addition to our campus is sure to raise up a new generation of servant leaders who seek to be a voice for the voiceless throughout the world.” As a part of his role at DBU, Dr. Everett will be teaching students on religious liberty and social engagement, as well as establishing new programming to promote religious liberty.
WINTER 2023-2024 14 DBU 2023 HOMECOMING ON THE HILL
WINTER 2023-2024 15 A Celebration of God’s Goodness University Hill lit up for Homecoming 2023, buzzing with activity for students, nostalgia for alumni, and excitement for all! From the Float Tip-Off Party to mark the official start of the week to the last few moments of Bonfire Bash after the basketball game, Patriot spirit was at an all-time high. Throughout the week, the Quad came alive with music, food, and laughter as student organizations built floats in preparation for Saturday’s parade and the annual Mr. Patriot competition. Saturday was the culmination of the week’s excitement, kicking off with college and athletic team receptions where alumni were able to connect with old friends and former professors before heading out to encircle the top of campus for the parade. After the parade, the entire DBU Family had a chance to honor the 2023 Distinguished Alumnus Ted Hebert ‘95, and Honorary Alumna Helen Rasberry. In front of a Burg Center full of roaring cheers, the Patriot Basketball team’s win over Southwestern Oklahoma State was the cherry on top of a perfect week, celebrated afterwards at the annual Bonfire Bash. Homecoming 2023 was truly a celebration of unity, Patriot pride, and the enduring connections that define the DBU experience, leaving everyone with memories to cherish and a sense of homecoming spirit that lingered long after the week ended.
WINTER 2023-2024 16 Mr. Patriot Taylor Morrison Homecoming King and Queen Jonah Gerwing and Emily Morren Distinguished Alumnus Ted Hebert ‘95 Honorary Alumna Helen Rasberry Basketball Game The THE CHAMPIONS Best Floats Delta Theta Sorority and Pi Theta Tau Fraternity Faculty and Staff Chili Cook-Off International Office
WINTER 2023-2024 17 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR Ted Hebert Ted Hebert graduated in 1995 from DBU, where he also met his wife, Beth. He joined Fidelity later that year in the Professional Services Group, FIAM, and Workplace Investing, and then in 2012 joined the Consultant Relations team where he helps to grow and maintain consultant relationships in the Midwest and Central U.S. region. Ted also has served as an adjunct professor in DBU’s College of Business since 2022. HONORARY ALUMNA OF THE YEAR Helen Rasberry No stranger to University Hill, Helen Rasberry served as Secretary and Administrative Assistant to then-President, the late Dr. Marvin Watson. She later married her husband, Benny, a DBU alumnus, who worked in the banking industry and was involved with the Baptist General Convention of Texas and served on the Texas Baptist Missions Foundation Advisory Board. They have lived in Midlothian for many years and are active members at First Baptist Church in Midlothian. Ted Hebert and Helen Rasberry
WINTER 2023-2024 18 WINTER COMMENCEMENT Dr. Ndolembai S. Njesada Dr. Mark Yarbrough DBU celebrated 395 new undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral graduates, and now DBU alumni, at this year’s Winter Commencement services held on Friday, December 15. More than 41,000 graduates are now spread throughout the world to bring the transforming light of Christ into their professional and ministry callings. At the 10:00 a.m. service, Dr. Ndolembai S. Njesada (a DBU alumnus) provided the address to the new graduates. Dr. Njesada holds a Ph.D. from the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC) and serves as a consultant in public health and as a political advisor to various NGOs and companies in multiple countries. His collaborative effort with government institutions and local and international NGOs led to the first-ever universal, mosquitotreated net distribution in his home country of Chad with over eight million nets distributed. In 2015, Dr. Njesada joined Partners for Refugee Empowerment (PRE) in Fort Worth as a Program Manager, providing strategic planning in designing, implementing, and monitoring mental health services for resettled refugees in Tarrant County. In 2018, he resigned as Deputy Chief of Mission at the United Nations Office of International Migration (UN-IOM) to co-found and advocate on behalf of the new “Les Transformateurs” political party in Chad. Dr. Mark Yarbrough, who serves as the sixth President of Dallas
WINTER 2023-2024 19 Theological Seminary and teaches as a professor of Bible Exposition, encouraged the graduates at the 3:00 p.m. service. Before stepping into his current role of President, Dr. Yarbrough served in various positions at DTS, including Vice President for Communications, Academic Dean, and Vice President of Academic Affairs. He was also a recipient of the Faculty Teaching Excellence Award and is the author of several books. Dr. Yarbrough’s daughter, Kayci, graduated during the service, and his son, Joseph, is also an alumni. Also during the service, special recognition was given to Shelby Houston, who graduated with her bachelor’s degree. Shelby’s father, Richard, was a Mesquite Police Officer killed in the line of duty. Pictured above are members of the Mesquite Police Department who attended the service in support of Shelby and her family.
WINTER 2023-2024 20 NEWS&NOTES DR. JODI GRIMES PIPER OUTSTANDING PROFESSOR The DBU Faculty Council voted for Dr. Jodi Grimes to receive the 2023 Piper Outstanding Professor Award. Dr. Grimes serves as the English department Chair and as a co-sponsor for Alpha Eta Xi, DBU’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, and the International English Honor Society. Dr. Grimes teaches undergraduate courses on composition and rhetoric, World Literature I, British Literature surveys, Viking Saga and Romance, Nature Poetry, and Prodigal Son Narratives. She is also active in DBU’s creative writing group and supervises DBU’s DOXA Literary and Arts Magazine editorial internship. Dr. Grimes is very active inside and outside of the classroom as a devoted mentor to students. An accomplished medievalist, Dr. Grimes has presented papers and published scholarly articles, primarily focusing on how medieval representations of the natural world reflect and shape medieval theology, politics, and culture. Dr. Grimes holds a B.A. from the University of Texas at Arlington and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of North Texas. She and her husband, Phillip, have two sons, Andrew and Wesley (a current student at DBU). DR. JULIO GUARNERI SPEAKS IN DBU CHAPEL Dr. Julio Guarneri, who was recently installed as the new Executive Director of The Baptist General Convention of Texas, spoke to students during the DBU Chapel service in November. In his message, Guarneri urged students to remember the people of faith who have gone before us as they walked by faith in the face of their challenges and uncertainties. Guarneri directed students to Hebrews 11, a gallery of historical biblical figures who lived by faith and waited for what was promised to them. In particular, what can the lives of Noah, Abel, and Abraham teach us today who are called to believe in what may not yet be seen? Though circumstances and contexts change, the same God is faithful in every generation. Dr. Guarneri holds a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies with a ministry concentration from Dallas Baptist University. He has more than 40 years of pastoral experience. He has preached around the globe and served as a moderator for the Tarrant Baptist Association and as Chair of the Board of Buckner International.
WINTER 2023-2024 21 The DBU College of Fine Arts Department of Music rang in the Advent season with a magnificent presentation of “Christ was Born to Save,” featuring the DBU Grand Chorus, University Chorale, and the Festival Orchestra directed by Dr. Joshua Brown, DBU’s new Director of Choral Studies. The program opened with lighthearted favorites such as “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” (arr. David THE COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC PRESENTS Christ was Born to Save Clydesdale) and nostalgic selections from the movie score “Home Alone” (John Williams). In parts two through four, the tone shifted to moving choral and organ pieces celebrating the birth of Jesus, including beloved classics such as “For Unto Us” and “Hallelujah Chorus” composed by G.F. Handel, as well as an original modern composition, “Let Us Come Before the Lord,” written by Dr. Stephen Holcomb, former Director of Choral Studies, and Dr. Uriah Rinzel, who currently serves as Assistant Professor of Music and Songwriting. With the Pilgrim Chapel sanctuary beautifully adorned in festal decorations, DBU’s talented choral student groups presented an unforgettable evening as guests were led into the true joy of the season in remembrance of the Savior of the world born in Bethlehem.
WINTER 2023-2024 22 WOMEN’S AUXILIARY BOARD Ruth Awards Christmas Celebration To learn more about the work of the Women’s Auxiliary Board, visit dbu.edu/wab or scan this code. Each year Dallas Baptist University honors distinguished women who exemplify devotion to God, family, and community symbolized in the biblical story of Ruth. The event, hosted by the Women’s Auxiliary Board on December 6, was celebrated in the Hillcrest Great Hall of the John G. Mahler Student Center. Susan Graves and Martha Edwards were recognized as the 2023 Ruth Award recipients. Jacque Delkus, President of the Women’s Auxiliary Board, opened the luncheon with prayer and a word of welcome to all in attendance. Following a Christmas performance by the DBU Chorale, DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright gave an introduction and shared special remarks. Afterwards, Denise Campbell, Chairperson of this year’s Ruth Awards Luncheon Committee introduced the two honorees who were presented their awards by Brooke Graves and Daniel, Pierce, and Matthew Edwards. Leslie Moulton, Executive Director of the Women’s Auxiliary Board, closed the luncheon with a prayer of dedication. 2023 Ruth Award honorees Martha Edwards and Susan Graves DBU First Lady Candice Wright, WAB President Jacque Delkus, WAB Exec. Dir. Leslie Moulton, Ruth Awards Luncheon Chair Denise Campbell Noah Graves, Brooke Graves, Susan Graves, Grace Earles, Chris Earles, and Lexi Damm Pierce Edwards, Martha Edwards, Matthew Edwards, and Dr. Daniel Edwards
WINTER 2023-2024 23 RAYMOND H. HARRIS: SENIOR FELLOW FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP Raymond H. Harris, 2018 recipient of the DBU Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award, has been appointed as Senior Fellow of Entrepreneurship. Harris founded one of the largest architectural firms specializing in corporate architecture. The firm was ranked as the number two retail design firm in America for three years by McGraw Hill Architectural Record Magazine. As one of the most prolific American architects, Harris has used his profit to build economic engines and ignite young men and women to develop influential businesses in entertainment, agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Harris has authored The Anatomy of a Successful Firm, The Heart of Business, and Business by Design. He is also an executive producer for numerous movies distributed by Sony Pictures and Lions Gate Entertainment, and an executive producer for a music company label. Harris graduated from The University of Oklahoma and was selected as the outstanding senior and distinguished alumnus in the College of Architecture. He serves on numerous corporate and nonprofit boards and is extensively involved in international sustainablecommunity-development projects in Africa and Asia. He and his wife, Marydel, have four adult children and 10 grandchildren. DR. JEREMIAH JOHNSTON: SENIOR FELLOW FOR CHRISTIAN ORIGINS INSTITUTE FOR GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT NAMES TWO NEW SENIOR FELLOWS DBU recently appointed Dr. Jeremiah J. Johnston as Senior Fellow for Christian Origins for the IGE. Dr. Johnston is a New Testament Scholar called to equip Christians to love God with all their minds. Dr. Johnston completed his doctoral residency in Oxford in collaboration with the Oxford Centre for Mission Studies and received his Ph.D. from Middlesex University London. He holds advanced degrees in theology from Acadia University and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr. Johnston’s role for the IGE will include editing an upcoming academic journal housed within the Institute for Global Engagement, expanding the reach of the University, and engaging with DBU students through speaking at chapel, lecturing, and teaching courses. Author of 15 books and Bible studies, along with numerous articles and chapters, Dr. Johnston is passionate about resourcing believers to give intellectually informed accounts for what they believe. As a theologian who has the unique ability to connect with people of all ages, and a culture expert, he has been interviewed numerous times and contributed articles across a spectrum of national shows, including Fox News, CNN, CBS This Morning, Vanity Fair, Premier Christianity Magazine & Premier Radio, RELEVANT Magazine, DECISION Magazine, The Christian Post, Moody Radio Network, Salem Radio Network, and several other media outlets. Dr. Johnston and his wife, Audrey, are members of Prestonwood Baptist Church and have five children.
WINTER 2023-2024 24 COOK SCHOOL OF LEADERSHIP JOURNAL Several new full-time faculty joined the DBU Family this year. See the list below and look out for featured articles on each one coming later this year. Pictured left to right - front row: Dr. Jennifer Burgess, Assistant Professor of Psychology; Dr. Julia Hyman, Assistant Professor of Education; Dr. Debbye Garner, Assistant Professor of School Counseling; Grace Paterson, Assistant Professor of Accounting; Camila Ramos, Assistant Professor of Information Technology Management Pictured left to right - back row: Dr. Mary Flickner, Assistant Professor of Developing a Christian Mind; Dr. Julie Leslie, Assistant Professor of Education; Dr. Stephen Mansfield, Dean of the College of Business / Assistant Professor of Business; Dr. Christopher Smith, Assistant Professor of Finance; Ken Koester, Assistant Professor of Digital Arts and Graphic Design; Dr. Joshua Brown, Director of Choral Studies / Assistant Professor of Music (Not pictured: Dr. Blake Killingsworth, Dean of the Cook School of Leadership / Assistant Professor of History and Leadership; Dr. Joshua Longmire, Director of Master of Arts in Leadership / Master of Arts in International Studies / Assistant Professor of Leadership) NEW FULL-TIME FACULTY The Cook School of Leadership has published the second edition of its Leadership Journal, featuring articles and book reviews by DBU faculty, Ph.D. and Ed.D. alumni, and current doctoral candidates. This new edition contains articles that look at leadership through the prism of political leadership, the spiritual disciplines, the power of literature, and more. Scan to read the free online copy.
WINTER 2023-2024 25 PATRIOTATHLETICS TWO PATRIOTS NAMED SOUTH CENTRAL REGION PLAYERS OF THE YEAR Delaney Fuller Taylor Tufts DBU Volleyball’s Delaney Fuller and Women’s Soccer’s Taylor Tufts were recognized as All-Americans and honored as the top players in the Lone Star Conference and South Central Region following the 2023 season. Both Fuller and Tufts helped guide their teams to conference titles and trips to the NCAA postseason this year. Fuller, a senior outside hitter from San Juan Capistrano, California, was named a First Team All-American by the American Volleyball Coaches Association and was this year’s LSC Player of the Year and AVCA South Central Region Player of the Year. It marks the second consecutive year that a player from DBU was named the South Central Region Player of the Year after AJ Koele won the award in 2022. In her second year at DBU, Fuller, a transfer from Angelo State a year ago, arguably compiled the most impressive offensive season in program history after setting the program record for points (529.0) and kills (494) in a single season. Fuller also ranks among the nation’s best statistically, as her 494 kills were the 11th-most in the country, and her 4.94 points per set ranked as the 13th-highest average at the NCAA Division II level. DBU head volleyball coach Jordan Fish beams when she thinks about Fuller’s impact. “I am so proud of the young woman, teammate and player that Delaney is developing into here at DBU,” Fish said. “We love her, are grateful for her, and it has been amazing to see what the Lord has been doing in her life during her time at DBU. I am excited that she has another season here at DBU and for what God has in store for her and our team.” Taylor Tufts, a junior midfielder from Southlake, Texas, took the Lone Star Conference by storm in her first season at DBU and was named the league’s Player of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, and Forward of the Year in addition to being named a First Team All-American DBU Head Volleyball Coach Jordan Fish by the Division II Conference Commissioners Association. Tufts was also selected as the South Central Region Player of the Year following the Patriots’ run to the postseason. In her first year with the Patriots after transferring from the University of North Texas, Tufts led the nation and set a school record in assists with 17 on the season. The Patriots’ junior midfielder also scored seven goals and led the Lone Star Conference in points (33). DBU Women’s Soccer Head Coach Marcus Wood raves about the player Taylor has become this season. “We knew DBU was getting a special soccer player,” Wood remarked. “We have been pleased to find that she is an incredible teammate. She loves her teammates, and she loves soccer. Her positive energy is contagious every day.” Both Fuller and Tufts return to campus next year for their senior seasons. With a star-studded cast surrounding DBU’s All-Americans, volleyball and women’s soccer are primed to defend their conference crowns and make runs in the NCAA Tournament.
WINTER 2023-2024 26 DBU Athletics recently completed one of the most historic fall seasons in program history. Both Volleyball and Women’s Soccer won Lone Star Conference titles, and three teams reached the postseason, highlighted by Women’s Cross Country’s seventh trip to the NCAA National Championships. Women’s Volleyball DBU Volleyball reached new heights in 2023 after winning their first-ever Lone Star Conference regular season title. Under the direction of third-year head coach Jordan Fish, the Lady Patriots went 14-2 in conference play to earn the right to host the LSC Tournament. During the regular season, DBU defeated the defending national champions, West Texas A&M, in a thrilling five-set win in front of a packed Burg Center on September 22. The victory was part of a 25-game win streak at home that finally ended in a loss to Texas A&M-Kingsville in the LSC Semifinals. For the first time in program history, the Lady Patriots advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the second consecutive year. Advancing as the No. 5 seed in the South Central Regional, DBU upset 12th-ranked Colorado Mesa in the quarterfinal round to notch the program’s first-ever win in the postseason. The Lady Patriots’ magical run ended in a hardfought loss in four sets to West Texas A&M on their home floor in Canyon, Texas. At season’s end, DBU’s Jordan Fish was named Coach of the Year in the Lone Star Conference after guiding the Lady Patriots to a 24-8 record. Delaney Fuller became the first player in program history to earn LSC Player of the Year honors and was joined by Daylee Doggett, Lindsey Otero, Shaylee Shore, and Karly Wells on the All-Lone Star Conference Team. Women’s Soccer On the pitch, the DBU Women’s Soccer team became the first team in the history of the Lone Star Conference to win five consecutive regular season titles. The Patriots also clinched the LSC Tournament Championship with a 4-0 win over St. Mary’s at Patriot Soccer Field. DBU earned the No. 1 seed in the NCAA South Central Regional and became one of just six teams in the nation to advance to the NCAA postseason for the ninth consecutive year before eventually falling to UC Colorado Springs in the South Central Regional semifinal round. DBU ATHLETICS COMPLETES HISTORIC FALL SEASON DBU’s Women’s Volleyball Team Celebrates
WINTER 2023-2024 27 The Patriots’ success was headlined by a clean sweep of the league’s awards. Tufts was named the Lone Star Conference Player of the Year and was also tabbed as both the league’s Newcomer and Forward of the Year. Rachel Allen garnered LSC Defensive Player of the Year honors, while Michelle Gonzalez was named the LSC Midfielder of the Year. Carmen Lopez garnered Goalkeeper and Freshman of the Year honors, and second-year head coach Marcus Wood and his staff were selected as the LSC Coaching Staff of the Year. Men’s Soccer On the men’s side, DBU won their final two games of the regular season to claim a third-place finish in the Lone Star Conference standings, qualifying them for the LSC Tournament for the second consecutive year. Playing host to Texas A&M International in the first-ever conference tournament match at Patriot Soccer Field, DBU reached the semifinals after surviving double overtime and advancing with a 4-3 edge over the Dustdevils in penalty kicks. The Patriots would eventually reach the LSC Championship for the first time in program history after knocking off West Texas A&M, 5-4 in penalty kicks. Junior forward Peyton Voelker became the all-time leader in goals scored in DBU Men’s Soccer history during the 2023 season. He capped off the year as a First Team All-LSC selection and was also named to the All-South Central Region Team. Women’s Cross Country In Women’s Cross Country, DBU reached the NCAA National Championships for the third straight year and the seventh time in program history. Facing the nation’s elite, the Lady Patriots posted a 25th-place team finish and were led by freshman Lesli Salas, who finished 52nd with a personal record time of 20:55.8 in the 6K event that featured 264 runners. Jenna Howard was across next, securing 113th with a time of 21:45.2. Running in third position for the Lady Patriots was Jetzibe Trevino, racing her personal-best mark of 22:05.3 to place 151st. Megan Smith finished in 160th, ending her cross country career with a personal record of 22:09.7. Rounding out the scoring was KayCee Keller, placing 208th with a time of 22:42.6. DBU LSC Women’s Soccer Champions Women’s Cross Country at NCAA National Championships Alexander Knepper
WINTER 2023-2024 28 On Saturday, January 27, DBU lost a dear member of the DBU Family, Mrs. Sheila Cook, wife of former President Dr. Gary Cook. From 1988-2016, Mrs. Cook served as the First Lady of DBU and made DBU a home away from home for thousands upon thousands of students, opening her home to countless individuals, providing prayers, care packages, holiday meals, and so much more. For the faculty and staff of the University, she was a welcoming smile, listening ear, caring heart, and ready prayer partner for any need that might arise. “The DBU Family is grief stricken,” said Dr. Adam C. Wright, current DBU President. “For many of us, Sheila Cook was so much more than just a friend. She was family. Mrs. Cook became like a second mother to Candice and me throughout our time at DBU. She was a prayer warrior and constant support, and I know that my story is similar for thousands of others who have been touched by her grace, wisdom, generosity, and kindness. So many of us would not be what we are today without having had Mrs. Sheila Cook in our lives. She truly epitomized Christ-centered servant leadership.” A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Sheila Cook was born on March 6, 1948, to Oscar and Edna Raymer, who raised her brother, Elwyn, and her in a loving, Christian home. Throughout her life, she remained an active member of her church and found inside this Christian community an outlet for her unique gifts of encouragement, teaching, and hospitality. Sheila left Louisville to pursue her undergraduate education at Georgetown College and returned to her hometown to earn a Master of Education degree at the University of Louisville and begin her career as a school teacher. It was during this time that she met a young man named Gary Cook, who attended her Sunday School class, was a student at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary there in Louisville, and had just been named the Minister for Senior Adults at her church. The two were soon married, and after completing his work at Southern, the couple left for Texas, where REMEMBERING Sheila Cook
WINTER 2023-2024 29 Gary pursued his doctorate at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Sheila continued her work as an educator, a central passion of her life. For 18 years, Sheila served in the classroom as a teacher. With tremendous compassion and patience, she took the time to educate those who needed extra care and attention. At the elementary and middle school levels, she spent 14 years with students who had learning differences, for two years she taught remedial reading to junior high students, and for another two years, she helped mentally challenged students at the junior high and high school levels. Shortly after the Cooks were married, Dr. Cook was called to pastor First Baptist Church of McGregor, a small town just outside of Waco. Two years later, they moved to Waco, as Dr. Cook became a part of the Baylor University faculty and administration. Sheila continued her teaching career during this time, and when she was not in her school classroom, Sheila could be found in the church, teaching Sunday School, Mission Friends classes, Vacation Bible Schools,and Young Women’s Auxiliary groups. She served on pastoral care committees, preschool committees, long-range planning committees, and even served as the accompanist for the preschool choir. Always warm and welcoming, Sheila made people feel at home and encouraged them along in their walk with the Lord. During this time, the Cooks also welcomed into the world two sons, David Daniel and Mark Andrew, and Sheila discovered one of the greatest joys in her life, being a mother. Through the years, she loved and cared for her boys, serving as a teacher, encourager, cheerleader, Dr. Mark and Shannon Cook; Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook; Dr. David and Nicole Cook Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook with grandchildren Molly, Caleb, and Gracie Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook
WINTER 2023-2024 30 prayer partner, and model for the wives the two would marry when they grew older. In 1988, the Cook Family left Waco for Dallas. As the incoming president of Dallas Baptist University, Dr. Cook faced many challenges, and Mrs. Cook stood by his side, supporting him every step of the way. She became an active member of the DBU Women’s Auxiliary Board, serving as the chairperson of many committees and events. In recognition for this service and her work at DBU, the Women’s Auxiliary Board presented her with the Ruth Award in 1994. Upon arriving at DBU, Mrs. Cook began the DBU Hospitality Committee to welcome DBU newcomers. Over time, she became the consummate hostess, holding showers, receptions, and luncheons in the President’s Home that are too many to count, while making every person feel they are a part of the larger DBU Family. Later, she helped to develop and organize a special program called “Becoming Women of Excellence,” designed to encourage and mentor young women at DBU. In recognition for her service to the school, DBU named her an Honorary Alumna, named one of the Colonial Village Apartment Buildings in her honor, Sheila Cook Hall, and presented her with an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree. Beyond DBU, she served her community in a variety of ways. As an active member of Park Cities Baptist Church, she taught a weekly Ladies Bible Study, developing a set of life-long friends who became a second family. She also served as the co-leader of a Ladies Bible Study at Brother Bill’s Helping Hand, a ministry serving the needs in West Dallas, and was a member of the Brother Bill’s Helping Hand Women’s Council. She received great joy in being a very active member of the Esther Sunday School class. In addition, she served on the Advisory Board of the Baylor School of Nursing and on the Advisory Board for the ministry Asha Partners. In recent years, Sheila enjoyed serving as a grandmother to her three incredible grandchildren, Molly, Caleb, and Gracie, as well as spending time with her friends and family. “I have known of few others in my life who are more caring and loving than Sheila Cook,” explained Candice Wright, wife of DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright. “When I was a student, Sheila would constantly stay in contact with so many of us, and she always let us know that she loved us, was praying for us, and was always there to help. When Adam and I stepped into this new role, she only doubled her time caring and praying for me. She was a model mother, wife, and First Lady.” Sheila was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar and Edna Raymer. She is survived by her loving husband of 49 years, Gary Cook; her son David, his wife, Nicole, their children, Molly, Caleb, and Grace; and her son, Mark, and his wife, Shannon. She is also survived by her brother, Elwyn Raymer, and his wife, Linda. Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook along with Dr. Adam and Candice Wright Joel and Diane Allison; Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook; Dr. Jim and Janet Denison The Cook Family at the groundbreaking of Spence Hall on the DBU campus.
WINTER 2023-2024 31 SHEILA COOK ENDOWED CHAIR OF EDUCATION Sheila Cook loved to teach, whether it was as a special education teacher in the classroom, a Sunday School teacher at Church, or as a Bible Study leader at Brother Bill’s Helping Hand. Given her legacy for teaching, an anonymous donor has stepped forward to provide a challenge gift of $500,000 in order to establish the Sheila Cook Endowed Chair of Education. In order for the Chair to be fully endowed, an additional $500,000 will need to be raised. Those interested in honoring the legacy of Sheila Cook by giving to the Sheila Cook Endowed Chair of Education can contact Ryan Hefton, DBU Vice President for Advancement, by email at ryanh@dbu.edu or by phone at 214-333-5168 if you have any other questions. If you would like to send your donation via check, please mail it to DBU Office of University Advancement, Dallas Baptist University, 3000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, Texas 75211-9299. Mitch Bennett, Edith Bond, Sheila and Dr. Gary Cook Dr. David Cook speaks at the memorial service for his mother, Sheila Cook, held in the DBU Pilgrim Chapel Linda and Elwyn Raymer, with Dr. Gary and Sheila Cook, Mark Cook, and David and Nicole Cook at the dedication of the Sheila Cook Hall
WINTER 2023-2024 32 3000 Mountain Creek Parkway Dallas, Texas 75211-9299 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Dallas, Texas Permit No. 4715 To stay updated on the latest IGE events, visit dbu.edu/IGE. On December 5, DBU was honored to welcome General David Petraeus to the campus to share from his career as a military leader and to comment on his recent book co-authored with historian Andrew Roberts, Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine (Harper, 2023). The special event opened with a warm welcome from Dr. Adam C. Wright, DBU President, who recognized current and retired military, followed by Liz Brailsford, President and CEO of the co-sponsoring World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth. Brailsford introduced General Petraeus and the moderator for the evening, Meredith M. Walker, a renowned author and commentator on politics, economy, and technology. The discussion of the evening centered on the subject of strategic leadership as General Petraeus walked guests through his first-hand viewpoint of commanding the U.S. campaign in Iraq, Afghanistan, as well as adding perspective to the more recent war in Ukraine and the conflict in Israel. General Petraeus led a distinguished 37-year military career with six consecutive commands as a general officer, five of which were in combat—including the Surge in Iraq, U.S. Central Command, and U.S./Coalition Forces in Afghanistan—and then served as Director of the CIA. Today, he is Chairman of the KKR Global Institute, which he established in June 2013. DBU HOSTS GENERAL DAVID PETRAEUS Dr. Adam C. Wright, DBU President, General David Petraeus, and Liz Brailsford, President and CEO of World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth
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