Dr. Gary Cook Honored with 2025 Texas Baptists Legacy Award

Dallas Baptist University is pleased to share that Dr. Gary Cook, Chancellor of DBU, was honored with the 2025 Texas Baptists Legacy Award on Sunday, June 1, during a special service held at Independence Baptist Church in Independence, Texas. The award, presented by Texas Baptists, honors individuals who have demonstrated a lifetime of faithful Christian service and impactful leadership within Texas Baptist life.

Dr. Cook's journey has been marked by a deep sense of calling to serve both the Church and the world through education. His path began at Baylor University, where he earned his undergraduate degree and was elected permanent class president. Recognizing a call to ministry and theological leadership, Dr. Cook continued his education, earning a Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Doctor of Ministry from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Master of Arts in Aging Studies from the University of North Texas.

These formative experiences laid the groundwork for a distinguished career at the intersection of faith, leadership, and higher education.

In 1988, Dr. Cook accepted the role of President of Dallas Baptist University, stepping into a leadership position at a pivotal time in the institution's history. Over the next 28 years, he led the university through a season of significant transformation and growth. Student enrollment more than doubled under his leadership, increasing from 1,859 students in 1987 to 5,319 by 2015. But beyond growth in numbers, Dr. Cook's presidency was defined by a commitment to DBU's mission of producing Christ-centered servant leaders, a vision that continues to guide the institution today.

His emphasis on spiritual formation, academic excellence, and servant leadership helped position DBU as a model for Christian higher education. He oversaw the expansion of academic programs, the development of campus facilities, and the strengthening of DBU's identity as a university rooted in biblical values.

Since transitioning from the presidency in 2016, Dr. Cook has continued to serve the university community as Chancellor, providing encouragement, counsel, and spiritual support to students, faculty, and alumni alike.

"Dr. Gary Cook has spent his life faithfully investing in others through Christ-centered leadership," said Dr. Adam C. Wright, President of Dallas Baptist University. "His vision, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel have not only transformed Dallas Baptist University but have left a profound impact on Baptist life across Texas and beyond. I am personally deeply grateful for Dr. Cook's friendship and mentorship, which have profoundly shaped my own journey in leadership. This award is a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy continues to inspire generations of servant leaders." Dr. Cook's influence extends well beyond the DBU campus. Throughout his career, he has played an active role in Baptist life across Texas and the nation. He served as Chairman of the International Association of Baptist Colleges and Universities and held positions on boards such as Baylor University Medical Center, demonstrating a deep commitment to Christian education, healthcare, and community service.

His ability to connect institutional vision with Gospel-centered leadership has earned him respect among peers, church leaders, and educators across denominational lines.

The Texas Baptists Legacy Award was presented during the Sunday morning worship service at Independence Baptist Church, a historic and symbolic location for Baptists in Texas. The service was followed by a luncheon honoring Dr. Cook and fellow recipient Dr. Charles R. Wade.

For the DBU Family, this moment is more than a recognition; it is an opportunity to reflect on and give thanks for a leader whose faithfulness has touched countless lives and whose legacy will continue to shape the university for generations to come.

Dallas Baptist University celebrates Dr. Cook's extraordinary contributions to Christian higher education and joins the broader Texas Baptists community in honoring his unwavering commitment to faith, leadership, and service.