Trés Cox, ACU Abilene class of 2020 and ACU Online class of 2023.
This is the story of Abilene Christian University’s mission at ACU Dallas, where excellence in learning and spiritual and vocational formation are providing a transformative experience for our students.
At ACU Dallas, our identity and commitments are deeply rooted in the university’s ongoing mission to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world.
We believe everyone is valuable because they are created in the image of God. We are a diverse community of champions. We commit to embrace and nurture a community of welcome where all belong as we advocate and strive for just access to opportunity.
We believe God intends for every person to flourish and commit to meet every student where they are so they might embrace a future with hope. We are passionate stewards of each student’s unique journey. We commit to create pathways of access, opportunity and flourishing.
We believe higher education should participate in God’s intent for the flourishing of every person, especially those who are the most vulnerable. We are fierce, relentless, tenacious problem-solvers. We commit to reduce the cost of education to the benefit of our students, their families and their communities.
A MESSAGE FROM THE Chief Executive Officer
Nine years ago, Abilene Christian University established the Dallas Campus to expand our reach and fulfill our mission of educating students for Christian service and leadership worldwide. Since then, 2,583 students have earned their degrees through ACU Dallas, and today, over 2,700 students are enrolled in our online programs across all degree levels. This number continues to grow each year.
As we celebrate our accomplishments and look forward to the future, we are gaining a deeper understanding of the new and diverse student population served by ACU Dallas. Allow me to share one such example. Summerly is a single mom and fulltime nursing assistant who is pursuing a bachelor of science in healthcare administration. She has two young girls, is still able to go to work, go to school and, as she puts it, “still able to be Mommy.” Summerly, like many of our online students, has gone through a lot. When she speaks about her educational journey, it’s with a broken voice and some tears. She says that, “showing my girls they can overcome any obstacle and dare to achieve their dreams, just like their mom” means everything.
Summerly is not the only one. Though the particulars of each student’s story may be a little different, one thing is consistent. ACU is meeting them where they are in their life’s journey and creating incredible opportunity and hope. As another student wrote as she completed her degree program, “My faith is stronger than ever because God made beauty from ashes. Mine is a story of redemption and unfailing love.”
As we come to embrace and appreciate who our online students are, it compels us to articulate how ACU Dallas uniquely embodies the university’s mission. Focusing on these students and their distinctive journeys challenges us to reflect on our identity, beliefs and commitments. The Dallas leadership team has articulated these principles into the statement you see on the facing page. In this annual review, we share more of the stories, events and accomplishments that highlight ACU Dallas as a unique expression of ACU’s mission. We hope you find inspiration in the transformative work that God is doing in the lives of ACU Online students.
STEPHEN JOHNSON ( ’ 90 ) , T h .D. Chief Executive Officer, ACU Dallas
ACCESS
TRANSFORMATIVE INITIATIVES
Military Tuition Assistance Program Launched
With the flexibility to accommodate demanding schedules and frequent relocations, online degree programs are a natural fit for our country’s military men and women. To further assist our active-duty military service members, ACU Online launched a Military Tuition Assistance program designed to champion our military students who need financial assistance to balance their military duties and educational aspirations.
ACU Online undergraduate students in active-duty status qualify for our Active Duty Undergraduate tuition assistance rate, which reduces the cost to $250 per credit hour. ACU Online graduate students in active-duty status qualify for our Active Duty Graduate tuition assistance rate, which reduces the cost to $495 per credit hour. Veterans, reservists, Department of Defense employees and military spouses are also eligible for a 10% tuition discount on all online programs.
Additionally, the Dallas campus has invested in hiring new staff members with past military service as admissions advisors and financial intake specialists to navigate the complex needs of this student population, which grew by 89% in FY24.
Learn more at acu.edu/military
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership
Designed to meet the evolving needs of education professionals in K-12 institutions, ACU Online launched a new Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership degree. Focused on preparing current educators with the
tools to enhance their experience with foundational and empowering strategies, the program will breed a new generation of effective principals, superintendents and administrators dedicated to transformational change and inclusivity within their schools.
With two distinct concentrations in principal leadership and school superintendent, this program is dedicated to advancing each student’s career aspirations through professional growth opportunities. The program features an embedded dissertation model that seamlessly integrates dissertation milestones alongside each student’s coursework, providing a comprehensive program tailored for success with a three-year completion time.
Partnering with regional education service centers and various school districts across the state, ACU Online is proud to launch its second Ed.D. program to further attract educators and current administrators looking to enhance their leadership skills and advance their career opportunities.
Learn more at acu.edu/edd-edleadership.
Workforce Partnership with InfoSec
ACU Dallas’s Dr. George Saltsman (’90) and Dr. Joe Feliciano collaborated with Infosec, part of Cengage Group, on an industry-first initiative to award college course credit for certification through Infosec Institute’s boot camps from CompTIA. This globally recognized information technology organization offers professionals trusted credentials that validate their career experience. This innovative partnership allows students to save time and money when pursuing an online bachelor’s degree or certificate in the fast-growing field of cybersecurity.
Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate of information security analysts is projected to grow 35 percent from 2021 to 2031, faster than any other occupation.
Answering the call for qualified IT/IS specialists, ACU Online added a new Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program. Focused on creating leading experts dedicated to securing systems, mitigating breaches and detecting attacks to
better service businesses across the globe, students will have the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of how to protect current and new information systems while simultaneously jumping into one of the nation’s fastest-growing job markets.
Learn more at acu.edu/cybersecurity
Undergraduate Certificates in Cybersecurity
Through our two complementary online undergraduate cybersecurity certificates in Fundamental System Security and Essential System Forensics and Defense, students interested in becoming IT professionals can learn the basics of computer programming and system defenses to understand how to better protect information systems without the need for a four-year degree. By teaching the necessary and unique skills in coding languages, network infrastructure and professional skills such as project management and effective communication, students are prepared not only for the workforce but for the cyber attacks facing companies and organizations.
Learn more at acu.edu/online.
Master of Science in Sports Leadership
In spring of 2024, ACU launched a new online master’s degree in sports leadership focused on equipping prospective and current sports professionals with the skills and knowledge required for high-performance leadership. We offer three concentrations – analytics, coaching and administration –designed to enhance core competencies and leadership skills for sports brand leaders, coaches and administrators.
“ACU has established an unprecedented opportunity to attract students interested in pursuing a career in the sports industry. The master's in sports leadership was birthed to further create a new generation of high-performing and rightly-guided leaders in sports organizations,” said Dr. Daryl Jones, vice president of sports leadership and learning.
The three distinct concentrations are designed to propel each student’s career goals toward greater competence and professional development. Developing new partnerships with major sports organizations, ACU has created a premier educational learning initiative to equip professional athletes
and sports management executives with strategies for more effective leadership, greater mental preparation and elevated team development.
The program’s first cohort started on June 25, 2024.
Learn more at acu.edu/sports-leadership-ms.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: DEL MATTHEWS
ACU’s new Master of Science in Sports Leadership program is already receiving positive interest from high-profile professionals, including Del Matthews, vice president of baseball development at Major League Baseball, who enrolled in the inaugural cohort.
“I’ve been contemplating pursuing my master’s degree for about six or seven years now, and as I’ve progressed in my career, the inspiration to further my education has only grown stronger,” Del said.
Del grew up surrounded by the game of baseball, soaking in the conversations of the big leaguers around him in the time he spent with his father, Gary Matthews Sr. Del worked his way through the world of baseball, from playing in the minor league for the Milwaukee Brewers to serving as the assistant director for player development and scouting for the Chicago White Sox, leading to his current role at the MLB.
Del’s mission in baseball has been different: to give others a chance to reach that pinnacle, particularly those who wouldn’t have the opportunity otherwise.
“As someone deeply entrenched in the sports industry, I recognize the importance of staying current, especially with the influx of young talent entering the market,” Del said. “ACU’s online program offers the flexibility I need to balance the demands of my job while pursuing my academic goals.”
ACCESS
EXECUTIVE AND CORPORATE INITIATIVES
World Flight Services Collaboration
Focused on delivering efficiency, value and sustainability through their individual expertise, Abilene Christian University and World Flight Services joined forces to create a 15-week WFS Leadership Academy, where over 92% of participants earned Credly badges, and 21% earned three or more undergraduate academic credits. As a testament to each organization’s teamwork and commitment to social responsibility, this collaboration allowed participants to engage with one another, lean into the business ethos of global leadership, and pack over 22 thousand pounds of produce and food for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, which services families in need.
Kodiak Building Products Leadership Accelerator Program
Partnering with Kodiak Building Products, a family-run company dedicated to specializing in a wide range of construction and building materials, the ACU Dallas team took a cohort of employees through a seven-week course that tasked each participant to produce an industry-specific and Kodiak-approved project to address a company issue or challenge. With over 32% of participants earning undergraduate academic credit and 100% of participants successfully completing the program, this partnership was a fantastic representation of how academic training contributes to workforce development and employability.
Faculty, Physician Assistant Partnership With Baylor College of Medicine
Abilene Christian University and Baylor College of Medicine partnered to offer a unique experience for employees and students within their physician assistant program to enhance their bedside manner and emotional intelligence. Through a series of seminars and educational lessons, this partnership allowed BCOM faculty members to learn about the significance of emotional intelligence and integrate the newly gained knowledge into their curriculum. Hyperfocused on supporting healthcare professionals on their educational journey, ACU is eager to continue to offer these executive programs to further prepare students and faculty members for service and leadership in both their personal and professional lives.
Harnessing
the Cybersecurity Workforce with Sword
Spurred by the overwhelming growth of cyber attacks, threats and risk mitigation, ACU’s Executive Education and Professional Advancement division partnered with Sword Group, a world leader in data insights, digital transformation and technology services, to provide courses designated to target fundamental components necessary to thrive in the market. ACU’s staff provided online courses to simultaneously grant Sword employees the opportunity to learn an innovative new technology while solving a real-world business problem to improve efficiency, increase profitability, reduce workload and make better business decisions. Courses included sessions on tackling data, advancing their capabilities in programming languages, leveraging data to elevate efficiency through real-world data analysis and diving into curriculum surrounding emotional intelligence. Sword Group positively reported how ACU helped employees gained essential skills they needed to apply to their clients and account holders to meet the high demand for a more inclusive workforce development system to effectively serve the full range of employees across disciplines and industries.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
ADDISON MOUSER, B.S. IN CHILD AND FAMILY SERVICES
Known for her many talents and philanthropic efforts, Addison Mouser is recognized as one of the country’s most honored servants and community volunteers whose main mission is to serve those in need.
Adopted at birth, Addison believes – and knows – she was chosen for a reason. As she grew up, Addison encountered several health issues, including developing a hearing disability. After being pulled out of public school to be homeschooled to accommodate her hearing difficulties, she began to dedicate most of her free time to other activities, including speech and occupational therapy, charity work and dance classes. Training in ballet despite a vestibular balance disorder, Addison pushed past her obstacles and made it her goal to not only become a great dancer but also an excellent student and advocate – all at the same time. Working with dance companies in Dallas and nationwide, Addison’s dream of becoming a professional dancer came to a halt after suffering an injury, resulting in having to put away her dancing shoes and find her next calling.
No longer able to pursue her dream as a dancer, Addison began to focus more on her volunteerism efforts. Knowing she wanted
to become a Child Life Specialist one day, she began volunteering throughout the Dallas/Fort Worth community allowing her to keep a positive attitude despite the challenges she and her family were facing. Soon after, she founded the Gratitude Project for Youth, a philanthropic grassroots organization focused on helping patients at the Children’s Medical Center Dallas to “find joy in the little things” by using her life as a testimony of what can be possible when you choose joy instead of dwelling in despair.
Through her valiant efforts, Addison began touching the lives of hundreds, including civil rights advocate Dr. Opal Lee, recognized as the grandmother of Juneteenth. As time passed and she approached her senior year of high school, Addison remembers looking for a university that offered her the opportunity to learn online with hearing loss accommodations. Already aware of ACU’s reputation, Addison began asking questions and comparing it to other schools in her area. ACU’s ability to be flexible and considerate of her disability made it the easiest “yes” for her to attend school. Now completing her first year as a student in the B.S. in child and family services program, Addison is excited to see how courses focused on social services will impact her experience in the field and even those around her.
OPPORTUNITY
EXPANDING THE COLLEGE OF GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES FOR CONTINUED GROWTH
To further support the continued growth of ACU Online and its students’ success, on August 13, 2024, ACU Dallas will expand the College of Graduate and Professional Studies into three distinct colleges focused on specific areas of study to offer more comprehensive educational opportunities and collaborations. Through discussions and strategic planning between members of the ACU Online faculty, staff and executive leaders, the restructuring included the creation of the College of Learning and Development, the College of Health and Human Services and the College of Leadership and Professional Studies.
The College of Learning and Development will be led by Dr. Nannette Glenn, who will serve as dean, and will be centered on programs focusing on education and psychology. The College of Health and Human Services will be led by Dr. Marcia Sotelo, who will serve as interim dean, and will administer the healthcare and nursing programs. The College of Leadership and Professional Studies will be led by Dr. Joe Feliciano, who will serve as interim dean, and will oversee programs dealing with cybersecurity, information systems, business, management and leadership.
Creating robust pathways and programs for prospective and current students, ACU Dallas, alongside ACU academic affairs, president Dr. Phil Schubert (’91) and the Board of Trustees, has worked diligently to remain committed to the mission and vision of providing a transformative education rooted in Christian values for the campus’s growth and success.
DISTINCTIVE FACULTY
Dr. Darlene Breaux (’20), program director for the Doctor of Education in educational leadership, has received various honors and accolades, including being awarded School Board Member of the Year by the National Alliance of Black School Educators, honored as one of Houston’s Top 30 Influential Women and recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the White House. Administration As a rising scholar and advocate for women in leadership, Breaux is excelling on both local and national levels, bringing an abundance of knowledge and skills to her program and students.
Dr. Jennifer Butcher, vice president for intercultural engagement and belonging, was named the 2023 recipient of the Excellence in Education Award for “Outstanding Higher Education Administrator," presented by The Texas Black Expo. Butcher was recognized for her exceptional achievements and dedication to education to fortifying women and students of color toward their higher calling.
One Of America’s Top Online Colleges
For the third consecutive year, Abilene Christian University has been named one of America’s Top Online Colleges for 2024, ranking #137 nationwide, presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., the leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.
Proudly standing among several premier online institutions, ACU Dallas offers over 50 unique online degrees and certificates, allowing students from across the nation to begin their educational journey through transformative vocational experiences and high-quality educational programs in a Christ-centered environment.
Dr. James Morris, professor in the Marriage and Family Therapy program, was honored for his hard work, dedication and positive impact on the field of marriage and family therapy by receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Texas Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Through his passion for service and scholarship, Morris has exemplified his unique ability to connect and teach students throughout his time with ACU Online.
Dr. Twyla Williams-Damond, associate professor in the College of Learning and Development, was awarded a $16 million grant to bolster the representation of minority males within critical education roles across K-12 schools. Provided by the Angel Investor group, Williams-Damond will work with male teachers, principals, superintendents and other educators across the southern region of the United States by supplying individual tuition scholarships for applicants interested in pursuing their bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees and teaching on a two-year contract in rural, underserved school districts after graduation.
COUNCIL FOR CHRISTIAN COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES APPOINTMENTS
This year, the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU) accepted four faculty and staff members from ACU Dallas into the Leadership Development Institute and the Multi-Ethnic Leadership Development Institute. Exemplifying faithful leadership and a passion for scholarship and service, ACU Dallas congratulates Dr. Jennifer Butcher, Dr. LaShae Grottis (’24), Dr. Twyla Williams-Damond and Dr. Dena Counts (’03) for exemplifying faithful leadership anda passion for scholarship and service.
Top Business Management Ranking
U.S. News & World Report recognized ACU as one of the nation’s “Best Online Bachelor’s in Business,” with a ranking of #59 for its Bachelor of Science in business management program. With expert-designed courses dedicated to those seeking to elevate their skills, improve their understanding of business tactics and become future industry leaders, ACU has worked diligently to prepare undergraduate students for entry-level management, marketing, operations and human resources positions to further enhance their professional goals.
Ranked alongside hundreds of online business programs, U.S. News & World Report ranked ACU based on four components including engagement, services and technologies, faculty credentials and training, and peer assessment. Compiling results from a statistical and peer assessment survey, ACU’s ranking indicated its prominence to be considered one of the best online programs across the country for working professionals looking to advance in or change their careers.
Butcher, vice president for intercultural engagement and belonging, and Grottis, student engagement manager, were accepted into the 2024 Multi-Ethnic and Leadership Development Institute for their outstanding scholarship, initiative and desire to enhance their leadership styles and responsibilities. Focused on raising emerging leaders of color from CCCU institutions, the Multi-Ethnic Leadership Development Institute is a year-long mentorship program offering opportunities for Christian leaders of color to network alongside other Christian leaders interested in creating professional development plans to practice new methods of leadership and learning.
Williams-Damond, associate professor in the College of Learning and Development, and Counts, assistant professor in the College of Leadership and Professional Studies, were accepted into the 2024 Leadership Development Institute for their demonstrated leadership at a Christian college, scholarly achievements, and pursuit of broadening their skills for influence and leadership. Through a year-long mentorship program, selected honorees will shadow senior-level leaders at other CCCU campuses, network with current and emerging leaders, and create professional development plans with their colleagues and resource leaders to practice new forms of leadership and learning.
ACU Dallas is overjoyed to applaud these scholarly women who continue the legacy of leading faithfully in and throughout higher education, using their unique abilities to attract and guide students and staff members across the university.
OPPORTUNITY
STUDENT ENROLLMENT MILESTONES
Gaining in both undergraduate and graduate students, ACU Online reported 19% total student growth and 24% new student growth in 2024 fiscal year. Top performing programs for new student enrollment include an 18% increase in the Master of Marriage and Family Therapy, a combined 42% increase in undergraduate programs in child and family services, communication science and disorders, healthcare administration, and psychology, and a 15% increase in our newly launched undergraduate certificates.
STUDENT OMBUDS OFFICE
Birthed out of ACU Dallas’s Diversity Action Council, the Student Ombuds Office is designed to assist ACU Online students with navigating complex relationships, policies and work environments while working to promote civility, fairness and justice.
Under the direction of Duncum Center Solutions, the Student Ombuds is an impartial party offering an independent service to address student issues before they escalate to the formal grievance process.
The Student Ombuds Office receives student complaints, concerns and inquiries and tailors responses to individual situations and the student’s specific concerns. Additionally, the Student Ombuds Office conducts informal inquiries, assesses the matters brought to their attention, suggests resolution options and makes referrals. The services provided by the Student Ombuds Office are intended to complement, not replace, other formal processes available to ACU Online students.
WILDCATS MENTORING WILDCATS
To forge relationships between our online students, Dr. LaShae Grottis (’24), ACU Online’s student engagement manager, launched the PAWS (Peers Achieving Wildcat Success) Mentor program
focused on connecting peer mentors among students. The mentorship program requires active students to commit to two terms as mentees as they learn, engage and interact with their designated mentors. The program has allowed students to build relationships and communication to achieve higher academic and professional success.
CAREER SERVICES EXPANSION
Focused on helping students achieve their professional goals before graduation, the Student Engagement office works diligently to bring career-readiness resources and networking opportunities to our students. Dr. LaShae Grottis (’24), ACU Online’s student engagement manager, sees the work of engaging online students as primarily one of collaboration.
This year, new services have been offered to students looking to start or advance their careers after graduation. These free services include developing career guides for graduate school, job search and interview preparation, partnering with program directors, introducing virtual career fairs, and encouraging our graduates to complete the First Destination Survey, which gauges the career outcomes of recent graduates. Other career development programs, like Vantage, give students an advantage in gaining workplace competencies. Through Vantage, students are given activities to complete based on the National Association of Colleges and Employers, including Self-Development and Professionalism, Communication, Critical Thinking and Applied Problem-Solving, Teamwork, and Vocation. With dozens of students already engaged, Grottis anticipates students will participate in the program as part of their new student orientation and first-year experience.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
CHANDLER DELMAS, MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Amid the chaos of loss, one thing holds true for Chandler Delmas (’23) – God is always in control, and life is never what you might expect. Finishing with her Master of Business Administration (MBA) program, Chandler not only brings fresh perspectives to what it means to be a woman in business but also how to discern the voice of the Lord even in times of trial. Working as a marketing manager for Amazon and earning several professional awards throughout her impressive career, she is interested in continuing to advocate for more women in leadership positions as well as elevating working mothers and the issues they face.
Since her time in undergraduate studies, Chandler always knew she was creative and a people person. Looking to get involved in something related to branding and creative thinking, she pursued her bachelor’s degree in advertising at the University of Oklahoma. Shortly after completing her degree, Chandler moved back to Dallas, Texas, to pursue her master’s in integrated marketing communications from the University of North Texas. Looking to become an expert in marketing, Chandler set out to learn everything possible to succeed in the field – and she did. Moving up the ladder of multiple major companies for the next 15 years, Chandler found herself at the top of her game as the director of product marketing, loyalty and subscription for Cinemark Theatres - an achievement that made her, and those around her, recognize her potential. And yet, she felt like she was missing something.
Noticing how the business culture and its practices were changing, Chandler started researching business administration programs. Looking specifically at universities’ flexibility to fit her busy schedule, Chandler fell in love with ACU’s approach to teaching business practices based on Christian principles.
While pursuing her MBA, Chandler began a new position as the senior marketing manager for the subscription lifecycle in the Amazon kids’ division. Seeing how this was the perfect role for her, Chandler felt God and His perfect timing during this career transition. Like many working women excelling in their careers, she wanted to not only become a powerhouse in the workplace but also raise a family who could witness the fruits of her labor. With one child at home, Chandler and her husband were eager to bring another life into the world. However, within a year, the Delmas family experienced two miscarriages. Feeling the pendulum between hopelessness and silence, the Delmases grieved the loss of their unborn children.
Caught between furthering her career and expanding her family, Chandler did not allow herself to dwell in a stage of despair. In many ways, she believes it has made her learn to lean on God and trust in His plan. Today, nearly two years later, Chandler sees the hand of God in her life more than ever before. From her time in Oklahoma to her years in the private sector to her miscarriages, Chandler has found peace in where she is right now, including her time at ACU, which has given her hope for brighter days.
FLOURISHING
MEET DR. CHRISTOPHER COBBLER
As the executive director of the Center for Vocational Formation and dean of vocational formation, Dr. Christopher Cobbler has worked diligently to make ACU Online a place of acceptance, compassion and gratitude. Cobbler is more than just a pastor. He is a shepherd dedicated to guiding others, regardless of their faith, race or age, toward the ultimate giver of life.
Growing up in Canada, Cobbler was surrounded by strong, godly women who raised him in “the ways of the Lord.” Attending church and singing classical hymns, Cobbler remembers vividly when he was called into ministry. Sitting at his desk in the first grade, looking around the room of colored papers and lights, his teacher asked everyone to complete this poem: Marvelous, Marvelous Me. When I grow up, I want to be [blank]. And while other students had difficulty filling in the blank, he recalls that he fearlessly filled in the poem without hesitation.
“It’s like it happened yesterday,” Cobbler said. “The poem said, “Marvelous, Marvelous Me. When I grow up, I want to be, and I wrote down: a minister. And what kid wants to be that, right? But, that’s what I wrote, and I truly believe it was a calling God placed in my heart.”
Cobbler began nurturing his calling and seeing in what ways he was meant to be a minister which led to pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Alberta Bible College in Calgary, Alberta. Next, he received a master’s degree in religious education at Rochester University in Rochester Hills, Michigan while pastoring a congregation in Canada. After completing his master’s degree, Cobbler pushed onward and obtained his Doctor of Ministry degree from Lipscomb University, where he continued to preach and teach across the United States, ultimately ending up in Detroit, Michigan. And while he enjoyed shepherding and working in congregational ministry, Cobbler sensed an invitation. Only this time, into academia.
Fast forward to the spring of 2023, Cobbler heard ACU Online was looking for someone to fill the shoes of the dean of vocational formation. After much prayer and meditation, he got the interview and not too long after, the job. Within a matter of months, he went from preaching and teaching to
serving the ACU Online faculty, staff, and student body. Learning to be an ACU Wildcat, he began to wonder what he wanted to do during his time here. One thing came to mind: hospitality. Not only because of its significance of giving others the utmost best treatment but because it embodies receiving as well. As he put it, “Hospitality is not simply about being a gracious host, it is about posturing oneself as the invited guest inside the story and lived experience of the other.” That’s something he aims to show the ACU community.
Today, Cobbler is inviting others to embrace the gift of hospitality by taking on the posture of listening and learning. He thinks and ponders more often now about that little boy sitting in first grade. Marvelous, Marvelous Me. Cobbler is finally where he is meant to be.
Enhancing Vocational Formation
Intent on creating an environment of sacred and safe spaces, Cobbler’s vision for the Center for Vocational Formation is multidimensional and revolves around nurturing environments conducive to spiritual and emotional health via campus-wide initiatives both virtual and in person. From campus-wide sabbath retreats, pilot programs with online graduate students, expanding undergraduate students’ vocational formation, and enhancing digital avenues like creating a podcast and digital presence for students and employees, Cobbler is working diligently to produce meaningful content and curriculum dedicated to increasing our online campus posture on vocational callings and formation.
A key tenet of the vocational formation strategy is the table metaphor. The table is a communal expression of hospitality that is informed by a desire for intimacy and not control. This is a vital posture when it comes to spiritual and vocational formation, especially for Cobbler. Often thought about from the host’s perspective, he pushes the ACU Dallas staff and faculty members to think from the perspective of the guest – with God as the ultimate host. Diving into God’s character, the Center for Vocational Formation aims to create an environment for others to open their hearts to what they might learn from those who see things differently.
Hosted by the Center for Vocational Formation, ACU Online has offered a webinar series called Vocatio Talks, where students gather for lively online conversations about what it means to find your authentic self. Eager to expand on this initiative, Cobbler revitalized them as Vocatio Reimagined and The Well to reach hundreds of students and employees, bringing the whole campus together. The center has begun to explore the concept of calling and emphasize the understanding of why our work isn’t simply a means towards economic advantage but a wonderful opportunity to accept God’s invitation to participate in the healing of the world. Cobbler hopes to continue to build off the lasting legacy of ACU Online and aims to encourage students, faculty and staff to dive into deeper relationships with Christ.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
LORI RUIZ, B.S. IN HEALTH AND HUMAN PERFORMANCE
Highly interested in getting her students to feel, look and be their best, Lori Ruiz (’23) is a prime example of what it means to actively encourage students while juggling the hats of student, mom and director of health services at Freer Independent School District in Freer, Texas. Graduating with her second bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Performance in December 2023 from ACU Online, Lori is not only excited to embark on the new journey before her but also start her long-awaited career of becoming a practicing nurse and counselor for high school athletes. Hoping to make a difference in how students view their relationship between fitness, mental health and school priorities, Lori is eager to make a lasting difference in the lives of her athletes and staff members.
Like many active kids, Lori was always a big fan of exercise and high-energy games while growing up. Thinking back to her time in high school, she always enjoyed health and fitness – how it made her feel and the wondrous aspects of what it meant to be an athlete. Smiling as she recalls her high school years, Lori says she “always liked just being active. It made [her] feel things [she] never did before, so high school was pretty fun overall.” Walking the halls and thinking about where she could take her life next, Lori decided that she didn’t want to leave her community for long.
Attending Coastal Bend College (formally Bee County College) in Beeville, Texas, she majored in nursing, where she was able to fall in love with serving those in need around her. Shortly after graduating and completing her nursing exams, Lori became a registered nurse and was offered the chance to work at her former high school in Freer Independent School District – the place she always wanted to return.
With a spirit and positive attitude like Lori’s, it was no surprise that shortly after signing on, her supervisor noticed something in her. After speaking with her about potential promotions within the school district, specifically the district’s need for a nurse with knowledge surrounding kinesiology and common athletic issues, she sought more information on potential schools that catered to adults looking to enhance their careers, leading her to ACU Online. Celebrating her 25th year as a practicing nurse, Lori now serves as the director of health services for Freer ISD and is already planning to pursue her Master of Marriage and Family Therapy with ACU Online.
For Lori, her time at ACU Online is far from over. She believes there is a reason why God has taken her on this path. From nursing to sports medicine, Lori sees that the underlying thread has always been students and their well-being. And, had it not been for ACU Online, Lori believes she wouldn’t have become the nurse and student advocate she is today.
FLOURISHING
IEB RESEARCH FELLOWS ATTEND FIRST RESEARCH SEMINAR AT THE DALLAS CAMPUS
ACU Online selected 15 Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership students for its first student research fellowship program, known as the IEB Research Fellows. This research fellowship aims to support doctoral students in their efforts to pursue research in intercultural engagement and belonging.
In April, 13 of ACU Online’s IEB Research Fellows came to Addison, Texas, for the first Research Fellows Seminar. While at the Dallas campus, the Research Fellows heard presentations from Dr. Nancy Kucinski and Dr. Twyla Williams-Damond The highlight of the seminar was the Research Fellows presenting their research to Dr. Robert Rhodes, Anthony Williams, Abel Alvarez (’82), and other faculty and staff members. Overall, the Research Fellows had a great time in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
TAPESTRY JOURNAL GOES GLOBAL
The Tapestry: Journal of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging in Education publishes empirical research, literature reviews and evaluations of practices and policies that support efforts of pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and postsecondary education. This peer-reviewed journal serves as a forum for researchers and practitioners to sustain a critical engagement
with issues in education in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
Since the journal’s inception in June 2023, there have been over 1,000 downloads worldwide from countries such as Singapore, Germany, the United Kingdom, Brazil, China, Nigeria and many more.
The latest edition of Tapestry was published in June 2024 with seven articles. A special edition in December 2024 will feature the ACU Dallas IEB Research Fellows.
Learn more at digitalcommons.acu.edu/deie
DOCTORAL STUDENTS AND PROGRAM DIRECTOR PRESENT AT TABSE CONFERENCE
At the 2024 Texas Alliance of Black School Educators Conference (TABSE), one Ed.D. program director and three ACU Ed.D. students received a plaque and monetary award for their research. During the conference, Dr. Darlene Breaux (’20), Jewel Hale Jr., Ray Lavan, and Dr. Basheila Ward (’24) competed in the Dr. James A. Johnson Research Institute.
The following students won the Research in Progress category:
• 1st Place Winner ($300): Ward, “Black Women Finding Our Voice Together One Scholarship at a Time”
• 2nd Place Winner ($200): Lavan, “The Erosion of Identity: A Study of the Influence of Racial Microaggressions on K-12 African American School Leaders”
• 3rd Place Winner ($100): Hale, “The Four I’s of Transformational Leadership and the Impact it has on Black Leaders”
In the Completed Research category, Breaux won 2nd place and $200 for her research titled “Unlocking Potential: Reimagining Dyslexia Professional Development with a Focus on Social and Emotional Learning Competencies.”
2ND ANNUAL INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE
CONFERENCE
ACU Dallas virtually hosted its second annual Inclusive Excellence Conference on June 21, 2024. The conference theme was “Access” with presentations focused on access to healthcare, education, business and STEM and on fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity and promotes belonging.
More than 40 speakers, including ACU Dallas Intercultural Engagement and Belonging Research Fellows, gave presentations centered around the theme. For the first time, the conference had a keynote address from Dr. Julie Lane. Lane is an associate professor and associate director for the Center of Doctoral Research at ACU Online.
With over 70 participants logging in throughout the day, attendees heard insightful presentations from a diverse group of researchers, scholars and practitioners with experience and expertise in developing and implementing strategies for achieving equity, belonging and access in the workplace or other settings.
DIVERSITY SUMMIT
ACU Dallas held its fourth annual Diversity Summit virtually on June 14, 2024. The theme was “Maintaining a Healthy Community for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) Students, Staff and Faculty.” The conference focused on the health and well-being that comes with creating an inclusive community for BIPOC people at ACU Online.
This year’s presenter was Dr. Stephanie Hamm (’90), associate professor of social work and the Bachelor of Science in Social Work program director at ACU’s Abilene campus. Hamm also served as ACU’s inaugural chief diversity officer.
More than 100 full-time faculty and staff members and adjunct instructors participated in the Diversity Summit.
The Diversity Summit was created to advance ACU Dallas’ intercultural engagement and belonging goals and priorities. It seeks to accomplish this by supporting the professional development of ACU Dallas employees, including executive-level administration.
ACU’S MISSION
Our purpose as a university is simple: to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. This mission manifests in our exemplary teaching, meaningful research and service, each undergirded by ACU’s enduring core values and 21st-century vision.
