Hearn Innovator Falls Series to Welcome Music and Worship Minister

September 17, 2014
Dennis Worley

Dennis Worley photo courtesy of Brentwood Baptist Church.

Follow us on Twitter: @BaylorUMedia
Contact: Terry Goodrich, Assistant Director of Media Communications, (254) 710-3321

WACO, Texas (Sept. 17, 2014) – Baylor alumnus Dennis Worley, music and worship minister at Brentwood Baptist Church, Brentwood, Tennessee, returns to Baylor University’s campus as this year’s Hearn Innovator.
The Hearn Innovators in Christian Music series purpose is to gather creative thinkers and trailblazers in the field of Christian music and bring them to Baylor’s campus. Innovators can be involved in the practice, creation or study of church music. While on campus, they make themselves available to the students, faculty and the public through public presentations, class settings, small groups and even one-on-one meetings. Past guests have included Christian musician, David Crowder.
Worley was selected for his role as an experienced worship leader in one of the nation’s largest church congregations.
“His innovative leadership and strong pastoral care has distinguished him as a leader of leaders,” said Randall Bradley, Ph.D., professor of Church Music and director of Church Music Program and The Center for Christian Music Studies in Baylor University’s School of Music.
The only public venue in which Dennis will speak in Recital Hall II (inside Waco Hall, 624 Speight) at 6 p.m. on Sept. 22. He will spend the rest of his time engaging with students through meals, coffee and ministry coaching sessions.
“These small group and one-one-one sessions give students an opportunity to hear a seasoned minister respond to their life and ministry situations and to offer them encouragement and advice,” Bradley said.
Worley graduated from Baylor University in 1976 with a degree in Music Education before moving to Nashville, TN to pursue a career in the Christian music industry. In 1993, he joined Brentwood Baptist Church as Music and Worship Minister.
For more information, call or email Randall Bradley
(254) 710-2360
Randall_Bradley@baylor.edu
by Sarah Czerwinski, student newswriter, (254) 710-6805
ABOUT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

Baylor University is a private Christian university and a nationally ranked research institution, characterized as having “high research activity” by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The university provides a vibrant campus community for approximately 15,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating university in Texas. Located in Waco, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 11 nationally recognized academic divisions. Baylor sponsors 19 varsity athletic teams and is a founding member of the Big 12 Conference.
ABOUT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MUSIC

The Baylor University School of Music provides transformational experiences that prepare students for careers in music. Our students thrive in a Christian environment characterized by a nurturing resident faculty, an unwavering pursuit of musical excellence, a global perspective, dedication to service, and devotion to faith. They investigate the rich musical and cultural heritage of the past, develop superior musical skills and knowledge in the present, and explore and create new modes of musical expression for the future. While preparing for future leadership roles, the students join with School of Music faculty in enhancing the quality of community life, enriching the larger culture, and making Baylor a place in which heart, mind and soul coalesce. The School of Music of Baylor University is a member of the National Association of Schools of Music and the Texas Association of Music Schools. Degree programs