Dallas Baptist University Acknowledges Seed Gift from Raymond and Marydel Harris to Advance the Carter School of Business

Dallas Baptist University joyfully acknowledges the generous seed gift from Raymond and Marydel Harris of Dallas, Texas, to the Don and Linda Carter School of Business. Their investment supports DBU's STAND FIRM. STAND OUT. capital campaign, which is equipping the next generation of business leaders to integrate faith, innovation, and integrity in the marketplace.

Raymond Harris, recipient of DBU's 2018 Russell H. Perry Free Enterprise Award, is widely regarded as one of America's most accomplished architects and a creative force in business and ministry. After graduating first in his class at the University of Oklahoma, he built one of the nation's largest corporate architectural firms, ranked for years among the top retail design firms in the country, while applying biblical principles to leadership, finances, and client relationships. Over the course of his career, Harris has become a sought-after mentor to entrepreneurs and marketplace leaders and has written three books: Enduring Wealth: Being Rich in This World and the Next, Business by Design: Applying God's Wisdom for True Success, and The Heart of Business: Solomon's Wisdom for Success in Any Economy.

Following 37 successful years, he sold his architectural firm and has since devoted his energy to mentoring entrepreneurs, producing films and music with redemptive themes, and spearheading sustainable community-development projects in Africa and Asia. Harris also co-founded the Christian Economic Forum to unite marketplace leaders around ideas based on God's economy.

Today, Harris serves as Senior Fellow of Entrepreneurship for DBU's Institute for Global Engagement, bringing his passion for innovation and discipleship directly to DBU students.

Marydel Harris shares Raymond's heart for ministry and hospitality. From the earliest days of his business, when she served as his first "secretary" answering phones from home, Marydel has been a vital partner. Together they have raised four children and delight in their ten grandchildren between their homes in Dallas and Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

"Raymond and Marydel Harris embody the type of entrepreneurial, faith-driven leadership we seek to instill in our students," said Dr. Adam C. Wright, DBU President. "Their generosity will help ensure that future graduates of the Carter School of Business are prepared to lead with courage, creativity, and conviction."

Reflecting on the gift, Raymond Harris said, "Marydel and I have seen how God can use business and creativity to transform lives and cultures. Dallas Baptist University is one of our best investments because it prepares students to do the same. In the future, DBU may be the last light on the hill, standing firm in faith of the Lord Jesus Christ and standing out as servant leaders."

The Don and Linda Carter School of Business prepares students for careers in management, entrepreneurship, economics, and global business through a biblical framework and ethical leadership. The Harrises' gift marks another milestone in DBU's STAND FIRM. STAND OUT. capital campaign, inspiring others to join in equipping Christ-centered servant leaders for the marketplace.