Presidential Perspective - October 5, 2017

Baylor Students, Faculty and Staff:

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the annual Undergraduate Advisor Breakfast, which was hosted by Baylor’s Center for Professional Selling. Our advisors have played a critical role in improving the University’s retention and four-year graduation rates to record levels – all for the benefit of our students. Every day, I continue to be amazed at the commitment of our staff and faculty in fulfilling our mission of educating men and women for worldwide leadership and service. Baylor and our students are truly blessed!

Here are a few noteworthy items for this week:

• Interim Provost Michael K. McLendon, Ph.D., reports that he has met with 40 department chairs across the University, with a few more meetings to be scheduled, to obtain their feedback on our academic strategic planning process and our quest to become a “tier one” Christian research university. Dr. McLendon is calling this important initiative “Baylor One” as we work to capitalize on the significant momentum within the Academy and the Baylor Family.
• Tomorrow is Baylor’s “Cyber Day” with the goal of helping educate the Baylor community about current cyber threats. Several recent data breaches and leaks have certainly kept cybersecurity in the headlines. An impressive group of national experts will participate in a panel discussion on “The New Wild West: Cybersecurity in the Age of Pervasive Technology.” And, of course, the day will conclude with a “CyBear Hackfest.”
• Did you know that the coed Baylor Line we see today did not exist until 1994? Until that time, women were not a part of the on-field experience that cheers the team as they enter the stadium before each home game. We have invited all alumnae from 1970-1994 (graduating between 1974-1998) to participate in a ceremonial running of the Baylor Line on Oct. 28 as we face Texas at McLane Stadium. Line jerseys with class years and nicknames are available for registrants.
• It may be a little early for Christmas, but I have the perfect gift idea! Last year, Baylor began a new tradition of offering keepsake Christmas ornaments as a part of our year-end giving emphasis. The 2017 ornament was released this week and features the Judge Baylor statue wrapped in a green-and-gold scarf. Proceeds will support Baylor mission trips to areas impacted by Hurricane Harvey. This project is part of a comprehensive effort to engage alumni, parents and friends in opportunities to financially support the University at all levels of giving.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to Baylor. Even though the football team has an open date this Saturday, a reminder that every Friday is Spirit Friday. And it’s a good weekend to catch our soccer, women’s tennis, softball and volleyball teams in action.

Linda A. Livingstone, Ph.D.
President