Presidential Perspective - February 12, 2026

Baylor Students, Faculty, Staff and Parents:

There are so many ways to measure the impact of a college education, and at Baylor we take great pride in our mission to educate men and women for worldwide leadership and service. We know that leading and serving can take many forms, ranging from the corporate sector to military service to public service and the mission field.

To measure our success, we regularly ask the question, “Are Baylor students finding opportunities to work or further their education after graduation?” I am so thrilled to report the answer continues to be a resounding “yes.” The most recent data, from Summer 2024 through Spring 2025, shows Baylor’s placement rate is 92%, and its success rate is 94% — two numbers that are well above the national average. Placement rate refers to students earning jobs in their field of study, while success rate includes employment of any sort, graduate school and internships.

The Baylor Career Center is vital in helping students take successful steps after graduation, providing personalized resources to help with interviewing, resumes, maximizing career fairs, and more. The numbers are clear that the excellence of our students and the stewardship of faculty and staff like those in the Career Center are a potent combination in helping students pursue their calling as Baylor graduates.

On to a few updates:

• HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS THIS SATURDAY: I hope you have made plans to be at Foster Pavilion on Saturday at 1 p.m. to see the legendary Harlem Globetrotters as part of their 100th anniversary tour. In a show built for kids and families, there will be gravity-defying dunks, game-changing tricks and fans will feel the history, the joy and the fun that only the Globetrotters can deliver. In our own backyard, the team will debut their new 100 Year jerseys, honoring a century of global impact, as they face off against their longtime rivals, the Washington Generals. Be sure to stick around after the game for an unforgettable 5th Quarter autograph session that is free for all fans. Tickets are available at www.baylorbears.com/tickets.
• PEOPLE’S LAW SCHOOL: Baylor Law School will host its annual People’s Law School on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering Central Texas residents practical legal education taught by volunteer attorneys and legal experts. Sessions cover topics such as tax, family, estate planning, insurance and veterans’ laws. This long‑running community program has helped thousands better understand their legal rights and responsibilities and stands as a shining example of Baylor Law’s enduring commitment to community service. For additional details or to register, visit People’s Law School on the Baylor Law website and scroll to the RSVP link.
• BIG 12 FACULTY AWARD: Earlier this week, Dr. Heidi J. Hornik, Professor of Art History and Chair of the Department of Art and Art History, was named Baylor’s recipient of the Big 12 Faculty of the Year Award. In their second year, these awards recognize one faculty member from each Big 12 Conference university for their excellence in innovation and research. Together, the 16 honorees represent what makes college campuses thrive as places of learning and growth. The winners were nominated by their institutions in conjunction with Big 12 Faculty Athletics Representatives, Provosts and other university leaders. Join me in congratulating Dr. Hornik, who is also a former swimming student-athlete!
• THE WHOLE BODY PROJECT: This week we are celebrating more remarkable news as Baylor has received a $5 million storytelling grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to launch “The Whole Body Project: Flourishing Together in Faith and Life.” Housed in the Baylor Center for Disability and Flourishing, the project will lift up powerful stories of belonging and vibrant mutual flourishing among people of all abilities through shared worship, learning, service and leadership. This initiative – identified as one of our institutional Bold Pursuits – reflects Baylor’s deep commitment to embodying the love of Christ by ensuring that every member is seen, valued and invited into flourishing community. I am grateful for Dr. Erik Carter and his team in the Center and the many Baylor faculty and partners leading this transformative work that leverages our world-class interdisciplinary research with congregations to inspire and equip communities of faith nationwide towards deeper collective life, belonging and faithful witness.
• LANDMARK WATER STUDY: Baylor scientists are known worldwide for their innovative research to preserve and ensure access to clean water. Recently, a team led by Dr. Bryan Brooks, Distinguished Professor of Environmental Science and Public Health, partnered with the University of South Bohemia in the Czech Republic on a study that produced the first-of-its kind field evidence of neuroactive pharmaceuticals accumulating in developing freshwater fish – above and below water treatment plants – at levels exceeding international safety thresholds. The results provide important data that can support the proper disposal of unused drugs and promote healthy freshwater ecosystems and fisheries. The work reflects our mission as a Christian R1 university to engage the world, steward creation and contribute knowledge that strengthens communities far beyond our campus.
• CVS CAREMARK PHARMACY: Did you know you can have your medical prescriptions filled right here on campus? The Baylor Pharmacy recently became a CVS Caremark preferred pharmacy, providing a quick and convenient option for faculty, staff and students. To find out if your prescription can be filled at the Health Center and to confirm your pharmacy insurance coverage, call 254-710-4991. You can also take advantage of curbside prescription delivery for quick, easy pickup, which is conveniently located at the McLane Student Life Center.

Let’s “Pack the Pavilion” – in Gold – tonight at 6 p.m. as our No. 12 Women’s Basketball team hosts No. 17 TCU for the top spot in the Big 12! There are ticket deals, student shuttles, concession specials and more available. And remember baseball begins its season tomorrow at 4 p.m. at Magnolia Field at Baylor Ballpark.

Linda A. Livingstone, Ph.D.
President

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Hundreds of invited high-ability students descended on the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center last weekend for Invitation to Excellence, designed to connect them with academic units and experience our caring, Christian community. Thank you to all our faculty and staff who helped make Invitation to Excellence a tremendous success.