Baylor Family Feature Stories
A decision to leave Rome for Baylor changed the course of Dr. Marco Chalaby's life—and ultimately led to an act of extraordinary sacrifice and compassion.
What started as a pandemic hobby turned into a thriving business for Alyssa Paschke (BA '23). See how this Baylor alum turned creativity, lessons learned at Baylor, and entrepreneurial grit into a growing boutique in Austin.
For Jerusha Hull (BA ’08), Baylor wasn’t just where she studied — it’s where her calling took root and friendships became family.
Charles (BS ’70) and Linda (BS ’70) Massler’s chance meeting as Baylor freshmen in 1966 blossomed into a lifelong partnership marked by love, service, and shared purpose on campus. Over more than 56 years, their journey shaped by faith, tradition, and dedication has inspired a life built together with heart and meaning.
From the Baylor University Golden Wave Band to the world’s most extreme racecourses, Dr. Ashleigh Tran (BA ’15) continues to push the limits of what’s possible.
At Baylor, Pedro Aulestia (BBA ’09) discovered a faith-centered foundation that carried him through challenges and onto the global stage. Today, that calling is shaping international relationships and earning the highest national honor from Ecuador.
For Suzy Thompson Mighell (BA ’87), Baylor was more than a campus — it was home, shaping her faith, leadership, and lifelong commitment to giving back to the Baylor Family she loves.
Ed Kinkeade (BA ’74, JD ’74) earned both his degrees at Baylor in just five years, but the faith, friendships, and sense of service he gained have lasted a lifetime. From becoming the youngest judge in Texas to mentoring future Baylor lawyers, his story is one of purpose rooted deeply in Baylor.
How did a Baylor freshman at 17 become a world-recognized preacher and mentor to hundreds? Dr. Joel Gregory’s Baylor-rooted journey is nothing short of remarkable.
From seminary to the courtroom, Baylor’s first joint MDiv/JD graduate, Elizabeth “BB” Sanford, is turning faith into action and redefining what it means to serve with purpose.
From Baylor ROTC to leading space acquisition for the U.S. Air & Space Forces, Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy Jr. credits Baylor with shaping the servant-leader he is today — and his story shows what it truly means to lead with faith and purpose.
From reviving old traditions to giving back in a big way, the Sigma Nu brothers proved their bond is stronger than ever — and their 4th Annual Alumni Weekend might be their best one yet.
Forty-five years after their Baylor story began beneath the campus oaks, Shirley Hunter (BS '79) and her late husband, Steve (BBA '80), have a legacy that now grows along the "I Believe" walkway, a living tribute to faith, love, and the Baylor Family that became their own.
From The Voice stage to leading worship in Waco, Holly Tucker (BA '15) has used her God-given talent to inspire others—always carrying her Baylor Family with her along the way. A third-generation Bear, she continues to share her gifts locally and nationally while celebrating the lifelong community she found at Baylor.
JJ Joe (BBA ’93, MBA ’94) was more than a record-setting quarterback—he was a trailblazer and a lasting voice of the Baylor spirit. His leadership on and off the field continues to inspire the Baylor Family.
Peter Burnett (BA ’03) says Baylor shaped the way he leads, loves, and connects—and now he’s helping others heal and grow.
Dr. Geoffrey Griggs (ABC ’25) arrived in Waco over a decade ago—but it’s the people, purpose, and powerful traditions that made Baylor feel like home.
Brothers Steven (BBA ’09) and Robbie Cutbirth (BBA ’21) credit their Baylor experience with inspiring their latest venture: restoring the historic building in Elgin, Texas, and opening Cutbirth Family Dental. Blending modern care with small-town hospitality, the practice reflects values they gained at Baylor—integrity, leadership, and community.
What started with a brave leap from Hong Kong in 1959 has grown into a multigenerational Baylor legacy.
When Nelson Yim (MS ’63) arrived at Baylor to study chemistry, he didn’t know the language, the culture, or what to expect. But he said “yes” to an opportunity that would change his life, and the lives of his future family.
Dog mom, author, entrepreneur—and proud Baylor Bear—Anna Reiman (BBA ’13) is on a heartfelt mission to share God’s love with the next generation, all featuring her mini Goldendoodle, Cowboy. 🐶 📚
What happens when two Baylor grads reunite to chase a creative dream? You get Parable—an award-winning Christian film born from a friendship that began more than two decades ago on Baylor’s campus.
From dorm room songwriting to headlining at Common Grounds, Baylor played a key role in the start of Tori Templet’s (BA ’22) music journey. 💚🎶 That foundation propelled her to the national stage as a contestant on The Voice.
🎓💚 Stephanie Mata’s Baylor journey is one of purpose, family, and joy. A social work major and family studies minor graduating this May, she knew Baylor was her calling the moment she visited, ready to pursue her purpose with confidence.🐻
🎓 Barbara Walker (BS ’67), Baylor’s first African-American female graduate, broke barriers and built a legacy of service through her impactful career in social work. Her influence continues through Michael Johnson (BBA ’99), who established the Barbara Walker Endowed Scholarship in Social Work to honor her unwavering commitment to making a meaningful difference.💚🐻
Back in 2001, the Baylor University Rugby Team rucked, scrummed, and kicked their way to the USA Rugby Men’s Division II Collegiate National Championship, marking an unforgettable moment in Baylor sports history.🏆🏉
From dreaming of Baylor to leaving her mark on it—Andrea Rowan (BA ’03) made lifelong memories as a student and now has her artwork featured in the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center! 💚✨
Three best friends raised their sons together—now, 19 years later, their boys are roommates at Baylor just like their moms were. Talk about a full-circle moment! 🏠🐻
🥔👯 Over 50 years ago, Alpha Beta Potato, a self-coined "sorority," was formed in the hallowed halls of Collins over a love of potatoes, Jesus, and Baylor.