DBU REPORT 4 NEWS & NOTES Texas Baptist photo DR. GARY COOK HONORED WITH 2025 TEXAS BAPTISTS LEGACY AWARD DBU is pleased to share that Dr. Gary Cook, DBU Chancellor, was honored with the 2025 Texas Baptists Legacy Award on June 1, during a special service held at Independence Baptist Church in Independence, Texas. The award, presented by Texas Baptist, honors individuals who have demonstrated a lifetime of faithful Christian service and impactful leadership within Texas Baptist life. Dr. Cook’s journey has been marked by a deep sense of calling to serve both the church and the world through education. His path began at Baylor University, where he earned his undergraduate degree and continued his education, earning a Master of Divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, a Doctor of Ministry from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Master of Arts in Aging Studies from the University of North Texas. In 1988, Dr. Cook became President of Dallas Baptist University, stepping into a leadership position at a pivotal time in the institution’s history. Over 28 years, he led DBU through a season of significant transformation and growth. Student enrollment more than doubled under his leadership, increasing from 1,859 students in 1987 to 5,319 by 2015. His presidency emphasized DBU’s mission of developing Christ-centered servant leaders, a vision that continues. His emphasis on spiritual formation, academic excellence, and servant leadership helped position DBU as a model for Christian higher education. He oversaw the expansion of academic programs, the development of campus facilities, and the strengthening of DBU’s identity as a University rooted in biblical values. Since transitioning from the presidency in 2016, Dr. Cook has continued to serve the University community as Chancellor, providing encouragement, counsel, and spiritual support to students, faculty, and alumni alike. “Dr. Gary Cook has spent his life faithfully investing in others through Christ-centered leadership,” said Dr. Adam C. Wright, President of Dallas Baptist University. “His vision, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel has not only transformed Dallas Baptist University but has left a profound impact on Baptist life across Texas and beyond. I am deeply grateful for Dr. Cook’s friendship and mentorship, which have profoundly shaped my own leadership journey. This award is a fitting tribute to a man whose legacy continues to inspire generations of servant leaders.” Beyond DBU, Dr. Cook served in Baptist leadership across Texas and nationally, championing education, healthcare, and community service. His ability to connect institutional vision with Gospel-centered leadership has earned him respect among peers, church leaders, and educators across denominational lines. The award was presented at Independence Baptist Church, followed by a luncheon honoring Dr. Cook and fellow recipient Dr. Charles R. Wade. For the DBU Family, this is a time to give thanks for a leader whose legacy continues to shape the University. Dallas Baptist University celebrates Dr. Cook’s extraordinary contributions to Christian higher education and joins the broader Texas Baptist community in honoring his unwavering commitment to faith, leadership, and service.
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