We have much to be thankful for, Baylor Family
It’s that time of year again, when the entire Baylor campus slows down to give students, faculty and staff some much-needed time with family — and much-needed time to thank God for all the ways we have been blessed this year.
This year has been a good one — so good, that we’ve broken things down into a list of the things we’re most thankful for at Baylor over the past year (in no particular order):
* New additions to the Baylor Family — 2019 marked the arrival of our new provost, Dr. Nancy Brickhouse, who is leading Baylor’s efforts to increase its research efforts (and their impacts on the world). We also welcomed the Class of 2023 — some 3,300+ students that made up the most academically qualified class in our history — as well as the countless Future Bears that frequent Baylor’s Instagram feed!
* Traditions, both old and new — One can’t think of Baylor and not consider traditions like Homecoming, the running of the Baylor Line, Sing, Diadeloso, Dr Pepper Hour, Christmas on 5th, etc. Each of these treasured moments reinforces the sense of home that the Baylor campus has become for so many.
* Waco, Texas — We are thankful to be part of a thriving hometown that’s not too big (but not too small) — and yet, one that’s adding new elements (restaurants, hotels, etc.) seemingly weekly. As Waco has grown, so has its partnership with Baylor, as this year saw the launch of the Go Gold and Solid Gold Neighbor initiatives, further connecting Baylor Bears to Waco and vice versa.
* Athletic success — In just the last 12 months, Baylor has seen two national championships, volleyball reach No. 1 in the nation, and a football bowl victory jump start a run to a 10-1 season with a place in the 2019 Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship game.
* President Livingstone — We’re thankful to have a president who reflects the kindness, generosity, passion and empathy that defines what it means to be a Baylor Bear. Whether cheering on Baylor athletics, moving incoming freshmen into their dorms, or inviting a discussion on civil discourse to campus, Dr. Livingstone is an inspiring leader for our university.
* Our Christian faith — We shouldn’t take for granted how amazing it is to be part of a university that recognizes that all truth is God’s truth, and isn’t afraid to put that truth to the test. To be part of a family where a relationship with Jesus is not only accepted, it’s encouraged. To live, learn and work at a place where the integration of Christian faith and the intellectual life is actively encouraged. Lord, we give You thanks for this place.
* The green and gold we fling afar — Last (but certainly not least), we could not be prouder of our graduates, who leave this place to use their Baylor education to make the world around them a better place. By year’s end, we will have witnessed nearly 4,500 graduates walk the Ferrell Center stage to receive their diplomas, and with every step they take, we fill with ever-increasing pride. Our alumni are the legacy of this great university, and the green and gold we fling afar, to light the ways of time .
Of course, this isn’t a truly exhaustive list; it’s a blog, not a thesis, after all. Most of all, I hope this is a reminder to you, dear reader, to take some time this week and give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.
Sic ’em, Baylor Family!