From Baylor to the Bench: A Calling to Serve

The Honorable Ed Kinkeade’s (BA '74, JD '74) calling to serve began early, shaped by faith, family, and a desire to help others do what’s right. 

A Baylor grad who earned his B.A. and J.D. in just five years, Kinkeade credits Baylor with meaningful friendships, faithful mentors, and meeting his wife, Melissa (BA ’73), on the very first day of class. Those foundations carried him through a distinguished career in the law, from private practice to becoming the youngest judge in Texas at the time — and eventually a U.S. District Judge.

For Judge Kinkeade, service extends far beyond the courtroom. He has devoted decades to serving his community, including roles on the Baylor Medical Center at Irving board of trustees, the Dallas Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Task Force on Alcoholism, and more than 30 years on the board of Baylor Scott & White Health. He also serves as a national board member of Canine Companions, an organization that trains and provides service dogs at no cost to individuals with disabilities, a cause that reflects his heart for compassion and dignity. 

Today, he remains closely connected to Baylor Law as a professor and mentor, investing in the next generation of legal leaders and living out the values that first took root at Baylor.

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