DBU Provost Dr. Norma Hedin Named 2025 Distinguished Alumna by Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

Dallas Baptist University proudly celebrates Dr. Norma Hedin, Provost, who has been named a 2025 Distinguished Alumna by Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (SWBTS). The recognition, announced by SWBTS, honors alumni who have made a lasting impact on Christian ministry and education.

Dr. Hedin is being recognized for her decades of leadership in higher education, her deep commitment to the formation of Christian educators, and her longstanding service within Baptist life. She was honored alongside Dr. Ryan Lee and Dr. Rick Dighton at SWBTS's annual Alumni and Friends Luncheon held during the 2025 Southern Baptist Convention.

Dr. Norma Hedin earned both her Master of Arts in Religious Education and her Doctor of Philosophy from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Following the completion of her doctoral studies, she joined the faculty at Southwestern as an assistant professor of foundations of education. She later stepped into academic leadership as associate dean of the Terry School, where she directed the school's master's programs, led the curriculum committee, and held a permanent seat on the Ph.D. committee.

"It is such an unexpected honor to be recognized as a Distinguished Alumna," said Dr. Hedin. "Southwestern prepared me well for God's calling on my life, and I will always be grateful for the transformative education I received as a student, the mentoring I received from professors and colleagues, and the absolute joy of teaching students in the School of Educational Ministries for 17 years."

Her journey with DBU began in 2005 when she joined the inaugural team of faculty teaching doctoral seminars as part of DBU's newly launched Ph.D. program. Initially serving as an adjunct faculty member, Dr. Hedin transitioned into full-time leadership in 2016 as Vice President for Executive Affairs, and in 2018, was appointed Provost.

Beyond her institutional roles, Dr. Hedin has contributed to the broader Christian academic community through service on the Board of the North American Professors of Christian Education. She has also served as a Senior Fellow of the B. H. Carroll Theological Institute and served for several years as an adjunct professor at the Canadian Baptist Seminary, further extending her influence across North America.

As DBU's Provost, Dr. Hedin serves as the chief academic officer, overseeing the university's eight colleges and schools, academic accreditation, institutional effectiveness and assessment, and academic support, which includes the university's library, registrar, advising, and writing center. A passionate educator, she is known for championing academic excellence rooted in a biblical worldview. Her passion for education is deeply personal.

"Dr. Hedin embodies the mission and heart of DBU," said DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright. "Her dedication to raising up servant leaders through Christ-centered education has left an indelible mark on our campus and beyond. We are overjoyed to see her honored by Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in this way."

In addition to her academic leadership, Dr. Hedin is an active member in Baptist education networks and a mentor to countless Christian scholars and teachers. Her influence spans generations and continues to shape the future of Christian education.

SWBTS President Dr. David S. Dockery remarked, "Norma Hedin has invested her life in the work of Christian higher education. Several current Southwestern faculty members point to Dr. Hedin as both a mentor and a model for their work in the classroom. We are thankful for Dr. Hedin's many years of service as a grace-filled, Christ-centered, and student-focused Christian educator."

As DBU celebrates this milestone with Dr. Hedin, her legacy as an educator and Christian servant leader continues to inspire students, faculty, and alumni across the globe.