SUMMER 2025 25 IN THE HEART OF TEXAS, where innovation meets tradition and commerce runs deep through the veins of Dallas-Fort Worth, a quiet revolution is taking place. The region often dubbed “Y’all Street” for its growing clout in finance and business is witnessing the emergence of a bold new player—one that’s not only preparing future executives, but also Christ-centered visionaries. Welcome to the rise of the Carter School of Business at Dallas Baptist University. Dallas-Fort Worth is one of America’s fastest-growing business ecosystems. With a dense concentration of Fortune 500 headquarters, a vibrant startup culture, and a workforce that’s young, educated, and diverse, DFW is a place where business gets done—and done boldly. Yet amid this economic surge, one notable absence stands out: a premier Christian business school. “We’ve seen explosive business growth but not a business school deeply rooted in faith,” says DBU President Dr. Adam C. Wright. “That changes now.” With the debut of the “Stand Firm. Stand Out.” capital campaign for the Carter School of Business, DBU is boldly stepping into the gap, not just to compete, but to lead the nation in faith-integrated business education. THE START OF SOMETHING GREAT Business is the top major at many Christian and secular universities, and for good reason. In a world shaped by digital transformation, global dynamics, and ethical dilemmas, business education increasingly intersects with every sphere of life. “This is the future of the whole world,” says Dr. Norma Hedin, DBU’s Provost, of the key role modern business education contributes to the increasingly complex global landscape. “Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, ministry, or education, business acumen is foundational.” The Carter School of Business is not only entering this space—but also aiming to redefine it. The “Stand Firm. Stand Out.” campaign, recently launched during a spirited campus gathering on May 22, is a $60 million campaign and ambitious initiative to elevate the Carter School of Business as the preeminent Christian business school in Texas and the nation. The launch event brought together students, faculty, trustees, and community members to mark the beginning of this transformative effort. “The campaign continues the legacy of faith and generosity demonstrated by the Carter family,” said Dr. Wright of the historic $20 million gift from the Carter family to establish the Carter School of Business. “We have a bold vision at DBU to build a great university pleasing to God. Building the Carter School positions DBU to make a lasting impact by producing Christcentered servant leaders for the marketplace and beyond!” Dr. Cicely Jefferson, dean of the Carter School of Business and a driving force behind its growth, is passionate about forming business leaders with purpose. “We’re not just educating for the marketplace,” she said at the campaign launch. “We’re forming leaders for the Kingdom.” The mission is clear: to develop highly skilled Christ-centered business leaders who will lead in the marketplace with wisdom, integrity, and a servant’s heart. CORPORATE PARTNERS & ALUMNI ARE TAKING NOTICE DBU’s growing corporate network reflects the real-world value of its mission. With partnerships including American Airlines, AT&T, and Texas Instruments, the University is already integrating faith with forward-focused business training. And employers are paying attention. “Successful alumni and regional corporate leaders are increasingly turning to DBU as a trusted source for hiring,” says Bryan P. Stevenson, DBU alumnus and Chair of the School of Business Advisory Board. “This campaign is about more than a building—it’s about investing in the next generation of Christcentered leaders who will influence business, transform communities, and lead with conviction.” THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS HAS A MISSION FIELD In a rapidly evolving economy influenced by AI, global trade, and cultural shifts, DBU is raising up leaders who won’t just succeed in the marketplace—but transform it. The Carter School of Business is standing firm in faith and standing out in purpose. More than a campaign, we’re leading a movement to shape the future of business through faith, integrity, and service. To learn more or support our efforts, visit StandFirmStandOut.com. We’ve seen explosive business growth but not a business school deeply rooted in faith. THAT CHANGES NOW. —Dr. Adam C. Wright, President
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