Dallas Baptist University Expands Everett Center for Global Religious Freedom, Appoints First Executive Director

Dallas Baptist University is announcing the expansion of the Everett Center for Global Religious Freedom with the appointment of the Center's first Executive Director, Knox Thames, and first Director of Research and Partnerships, Emily A. Cole. The mission of the Center is to inspire and equip students, churches, and policymakers to advance religious freedom globally for all. Thanks to major gifts, the Center will also open an office in Washington, DC, to strengthen engagement with policymakers and international partners, while also maintaining a presence on campus.

"We have a bold vision to advance religious freedom internationally," said Dr. Adam C. Wright, President of Dallas Baptist University. "We are thrilled these two advocates and Christian leaders will join DBU's Center, working alongside its founder and Senior Fellow, Dr. Randel Everett. As a global Christ-centered University, we believe that defending religious freedom for all people, regardless of faith backgrounds, is an extension of the Great Commandment, to love God and to love our neighbors. Through the Center's work, DBU will stand with those persecuted on account of their religion or beliefs across the world.”

"Two out of every three people in the world face religious persecution. Christians are regularly targeted, but others also suffer," said Center founder and Senior Fellow, Dr. Randel Everett. "With Knox and Emily joining, the Center at DBU is perfectly situated to be a leading voice for this foundational freedom because of the University's dedication to Christ, its commitment to Baptist principles advancing religious freedom for all, and a worldview that includes a robust international community."

Thames will lead the Center's work and represent it in Washington, DC and at national and international engagements with policymakers, faith leaders, and other partners. Cole's work on campus will enable the Center to build partnerships with student organizations and other universities, while also providing research opportunities for students.

"I'm honored to join DBU as the Center's first Executive Director, which is especially meaningful due to my deep respect and admiration for its founder, Randel Everett. I appreciate DBU's commitment to advancing religious freedom for all," said Knox Thames. "A pandemic of persecution impacts Christians and every faith community somewhere. The Center has the opportunity, and as Christians we have a responsibility, to speak up for the oppressed, regardless of background or creed."

Knox Thames is a globally recognized international lawyer and advocate who has promoted human rights, defended religious minorities, and combated religious persecution for over two decades. Known for his nonpartisan approach and expertise, Knox was appointed by both the Obama and Trump administrations as the Special Advisor for Religious Minorities in the Near East and South/Central Asia at the State Department. A widely published author, his most recent book, "Ending Persecution: Charting the Path to Global Religious Freedom" (Notre Dame Press, 2024), comprehensively explores strategies to combat religious oppression worldwide. ​​In addition, in 2026, he was named a Visiting Research Fellow at Regent's Park College, University of Oxford, which will further expand the Center's reach.

Emily A. Cole is a lawyer, advocate, and former Fulbright scholar with experience promoting human rights across Latin America. Over her career, she has conducted research and led programming to equip religious freedom advocates and religious leaders. In addition, she co-leads the IRF Secretariat's Latin America Working Group and serves as a mentor with the Christian Legal Society's law student program. She looks forward to leveraging this background as she works alongside DBU students and faculty to research and build partnerships that advance religious freedom for all.

"The opportunity to engage with students and faculty on campus and at universities around the country on behalf of the Center is a privilege," said Cole. "I'm excited to explore ways DBU can collaborate with other universities and denominations to research the drivers of persecution, devise responses that alleviate suffering, and walk alongside students as they wrestle with questions of faith, policy, and law. I see the Center not only as a hub for advancing international religious freedom research and initiatives, but also as a leader in fostering new, creative forums among college campuses."

The expansion of the Everett Center and opening of a Washington, D.C. office are made possible by the generous donations of Garlyn and La Juan Shelton. Their initial $1 million gift established the Center, and their second major gift allowed its expansion. The Sheltons are gracious friends of the University, and we are deeply grateful for their faithful support and for their inspiring vision to protect religious freedom throughout the world.