Spring 2025 Commencement: DBU Recognizes Over 550 Graduates

Dallas Baptist University proudly celebrated its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony, honoring the achievements of more than 550 graduates from across the University's bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Held on campus with family, friends, and faculty in attendance, the ceremony marked a significant milestone in the lives of students who have pursued academic excellence and spiritual growth. The occasion was further elevated by a distinguished lineup of commencement speakers whose stories and insights inspired the graduating class as they step into new chapters of service, leadership, and impact.

10:00 a.m. Commencement Service, Thursday, May 15

In Thursday morning's service, Dr. David Fleming was awarded the honorary degree, Doctor of Divinity, in recognition of over 30 years of faithful ministry as a pastor, leader, and advocate of theological education.

Dr. Fleming serves as the Executive Director of the Lanier Foundation, which oversees theological libraries and learning centers in Houston and the UK. He facilitates meaningful dialogue between church leaders and Christian scholars around the world. A passionate teacher and missional leader, Dr. Fleming has also served on numerous mission and ministry boards and remains committed to strengthening the global church.

Thursday's Commencement speaker was Dr. Mark Lanier, one of the nation's most accomplished trial lawyers and a committed Christ follower. His practice of law is informed by biblical wisdom and shaped by the insights of his faith, including the founding of the nonprofit Christian Trial Lawyers Association.

He has authored several Christian books and lectures regularly at universities and law schools across the U.S. In 2023, DBU honored him with an honorary Doctorate of Humanities degree in recognition of his impact in both the legal and theological arenas.

During his commencement address, Dr. Mark Lanier encouraged graduates to root their lives in a firm foundation of faith and purpose. Drawing on the imagery of construction and design, he challenged them to rely on Christ as the foundation for all they would build in the years to come.

"Build your life on Christ, follow His blueprint, and seek His will," he urged. "May your life become a magnificent structure that points the world to the Master Builder at work among us. Go and build something beautiful for God!"

His words served as both a charge and a blessing—reminding the Class of 2025 that their lives, careers, and callings are part of a greater design, one crafted by the hands of a faithful and sovereign God.

10:00 a.m. Commencement Service, Friday, May 16

During Friday's morning service, Dr. Tomás Mackey received the Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree and provided the commencement address. A native of Argentina, Dr. Mackey currently serves as President of the Baptist World Alliance, bringing nearly five decades of experience in pastoral ministry, theological education, and denominational leadership.

He has been instrumental in promoting unity among churches and theological institutions across Latin America and globally. His service includes leadership roles in Baptist organizations, ecumenical forums, and educational boards. As BWA President, he represents millions of Baptists worldwide, traveling internationally to foster discipleship, justice, and gospel-centered collaboration. His life and ministry reflect a deep passion for equipping believers to live out their faith in all areas of life.

In his commencement address, Dr. Mackey challenged graduates to think deeply about the meaning of vocation, not simply as a profession, but as a way of living faithfully in the world. He reminded them that Christ's call extends far beyond job titles or roles, urging each person to live out their purpose through service, justice, and love.

"Jesus' call is not just about a career or a title," Dr. Mackey said. "Vocation is not just what I do, but who I am and who I serve."

Framing vocation as a response to Jesus' ongoing work in the world, Dr. Mackey invited graduates to say "yes" to a life shaped by reconciliation, compassion, and Kingdom purpose.

3:00 p.m. Commencement Service, Friday, May 16

Dr. Hance Dilbeck, President and CEO of GuideStone Financial Resources, was presented with the Honorary Doctor of Humanities degree and served as the commencement speaker during Friday afternoon's service. A seasoned pastor and denominational leader, Dr. Dilbeck has faithfully served churches and Baptist institutions for over 30 years, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to ministry and stewardship.

Now at GuideStone, he oversees retirement and financial services for thousands of ministry leaders. Dr. Dilbeck has preached around the nation and continues to provide spiritual guidance in a variety of ways. In June 2025, he will release his first book, A Psalm for Unseen Servants: Encouragement for Quiet, Hidden Kingdom Work.

In his address to the graduating class, Dr. Dilbeck reflected on Psalm 78, emphasizing three timeless traits of Christian leadership: servant, steward, and shepherd. He reminded graduates that leadership is both a divine calling and a responsibility, urging them to enter their next season with excellence and integrity.

"Especially in this season, your part is to master your craft and guard your integrity," he said. "Don't let your character diminish the value of your skill."

The Spring 2025 Commencement concluded with a clear charge to graduates: lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and remain grounded in faith. Now as alumni, the Class of 2025 joins a global DBU network committed to impact and service beyond University Hill.