Dallas Baptist University Announces One of the Largest Gifts in DBU History from Jim and Julie Turner

Dallas Baptist University is honored to announce a generous transformational gift from longtime friends and supporters, Jim and Julie Turner, for the Carter School of Business. This remarkable contribution to DBU's STAND FIRM. STAND OUT. capital campaign reflects the Turners' lifelong commitment to Christian education, servant leadership, and advancing the Gospel through business and philanthropy.

Jim Turner built a distinguished career in the beverage industry, rising from early roles at American Can and Coca-Cola to acquire the Dr Pepper Bottling Company of Texas, later leading the Dr Pepper/Seven Up Bottling Group as CEO and president. His business intelligence and integrity have earned him honors such as Beverage Industry Man of the Year, induction into the Beverage Hall of Fame, and the prestigious Horatio Alger Award.

"We understand this project is about far more than just a building," said Jim Turner. "It's about the transformation of students' lives, of DBU's campus, and ultimately of the communities and corporations their graduates will lead and serve. This school will allow DBU to empower top-tier entrepreneurs, executives, and innovators who will reflect and model their servant leadership in the boardrooms, startups, and communities across the country."

Jim's wife, Julie, has been an equal partner in their impact, contributing strategically to their ventures, including the naming of the popular "Deja Blue" water brand, and serving with distinction on the boards of the Crystal Charity Ball and the Baylor Health Care System Foundation. She also served as Chairman of the Dallas Baptist University Board of Trustees, in 2003-2004.

"Jim and I have loved being able to give back to the University that has meant so much to our family. We witnessed firsthand the difference DBU made in the life of our daughter Amy, who graduated in 1999, and her experience inspired our grandson, Turner, to attend DBU as well," recalled Julie Turner. "We began supporting this wonderful, Christ-centered university in May of 1995 and have continued to be blessed to do so ever since!"

Beyond their success in the corporate world, the Turners have built a legacy of faithful generosity and Kingdom impact, supporting causes such as Christian education, healthcare, and community development across Texas. Their commitment to Dallas Baptist University spans decades, including faithful support of student scholarships and campus expansion.

Now, through this transformational gift to the Carter School of Business, Jim and Julie continue to invest in the next generation of Christ-centered leaders who will shape the world of business with courage, wisdom, and conviction. In recognition of their generosity, the new facility, Jim and Julie Turner Hall, will house the DBU Carter School of Business.

The Turners' gift will help advance key priorities of the STAND FIRM. STAND OUT. campaign, including a new state-of-the-art facility, academic innovation, and opportunities for hands-on business engagement, empowering DBU students to serve with excellence in every sphere of influence.

"This is a moment of profound gratitude. The Turner family's extraordinary generosity has not only helped us reach our original $60 million goal, but it has given us the confidence and momentum to dream even bigger," announced DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright. "Because of Jim and Julie Turner's leadership gift, this will allow the STAND FIRM. STAND OUT. capital campaign to amplify the impact this building will have on future generations of Christ-centered business leaders."

Through their leadership, philanthropy, and unwavering faith, Jim and Julie Turner have modeled lives marked by purpose and generosity. Their investment in the Don and Linda Carter School of Business represents not only a milestone in DBU's history but also a powerful example of how faithful stewardship can shape the future for generations to come.

"We are so grateful to those who have already invested in this exciting initiative, and we hope the Turners' generous gift serves as an invitation for the rest of the DBU Family to be a part of this God-sized vision that will outlive every one of us," shared Ryan Hefton, Vice President for University Advancement. "We believe this business school will shape generations of leaders who understand success is not measured only in profit, but in purpose. It is a privilege to be a part of a university where faith and boldness are encouraged and nurtured."