Baylor alum, former BSM leader named new University Chaplain

For the first time in almost two decades, Baylor has a new University Chaplain.

After Dr. Burt Burleson (BA ’80) retired in May following 17 years of service, Dr. Charley Ramsey (BA ’97, MA ’00) was named the university’s new Chaplain and Dean of Spiritual Life.

Ramsey isn’t new to Baylor, higher ed, or spiritual guidance. A two-time Baylor graduate (and Phi Beta Kappa scholar), Ramsey was director of Baptist Student Ministries at Baylor from 2017-21, then served the last four years as BU’s associate chaplain and director of campus ministries & church connections. Overall, Ramsey’s ministry and academic career has spanned more than two decades, including global mission leadership, interfaith scholarship and faculty appointments in the U.S. and South Asia.

His new role includes a familiar mission: guiding students, faculty and staff in their spiritual formation and faith journeys. As University Chaplain, Ramsey’s duties includes oversight of Chapel, campus ministries, missions, and pastoral care across the Baylor community. Known for both his deep theological grounding and global perspective, Ramsey brings a heart for student formation and a vision for a spiritually vibrant campus.

“Baylor is a vibrant community committed to the spiritual formation of all students, faculty and staff,” he says. “My prayer is that we will walk in the light of Christ and be known for the way we love and serve others.”

As Baylor’s chief spiritual officer, Ramsey now leads the teams that shape the university’s Christian identity in action — from Chapel and service trips to pastoral care and ministry partnerships. His leadership reflects Baylor’s commitment to faith, learning, and global engagement: Pro Ecclesia. Pro Texana. Pro Mundo.

Sic ’em, Dr. Ramsey!