TITLE: Congratulating Dr. Gary Cook on 25 years of service as president of Dallas Baptist University.

SUMMARY: Congratulating Dr. Gary Cook on 25 years of service as president of Dallas Baptist University.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Dr. Gary Cook is celebrating his 25th anniversary as president of Dallas Baptist University on April 6, 2013; and WHEREAS, Dr. Cook earned his bachelor's degree from Baylor University, his master's degree in divinity from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, his master's degree in aging studies from the University of North Texas, and his doctor of ministry degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary; and WHEREAS, This innovative scholastic leader assumed the presidency of DBU in April of 1988, and during his tenure at the helm of the university, he has presided over a significant period of academic, physical, and financial expansion; he provided guidance for the development of 22 new master's degree programs, introduced 2 doctoral programs, and played an instrumental role in the establishment of the first honors track for undergraduates; and WHEREAS, Over the course of Dr. Cook's presidency, DBU has experienced a growth in enrollment of 200 percent, to more than 5,600 students, and to meet the needs of this burgeoning student body, Dr. Cook has overseen the acquisition of 92 acres of land, a 46 percent increase in campus holdings; and WHEREAS, He has given generously of his time and talents to the community at large through service on the boards of the Baylor University Medical Center, the Baylor College of Dentistry, the Baylor Oral Health Foundation, Habitat for Humanity International, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, and the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas; he has served on the executive committee of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Texas and as chair of the finance committee of the Association of Texas Colleges and Universities; Dr. Cook has twice represented Texas at the White House Conference on Aging, and he has also served a term on the Texas Board on Aging; he is a former resident of Waco, where he was a city councilman and mayor pro tem; and WHEREAS, In recognition of his professional achievements, Dr. Cook has received distinguished alumni awards from each of his alma maters, and he was also chosen as the recipient of the Integrity in Christian Education Award from Marketplace Ministries; he is listed in Who's Who in America,Who's Who in the South and Southwest,and Who's Who in American Education;and WHEREAS, In all of his endeavors, he enjoys the love and support of his wife, Sheila, who is also an accomplished teacher; the couple's treasured family includes two sons, David and his wife, Nicole, and Mark, and a granddaughter, Molly; Dr. and Mrs. Cook are valued members of Park Cities Baptist Church, and he contributes to the congregation as a deacon; and WHEREAS, Dallas Baptist University has gained immeasurably from Dr. Cook's dedication and vision over the last quarter-century, and it is a privilege to acknowledge his ongoing role in higher education in the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Dr. Gary Cook on his 25 years of service as president of Dallas Baptist University and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success in his important work; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Dr. Cook as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. King of Parker Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 524 was adopted by the House on March 7, 2013, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House