Бейлор назначил профессора Ричарда Расселла новым директором программы University Scholars

By Tripp Henderson | Staff Writer Baylor has appointed Dr. Richard Rankin Russell, a professor in the English department, as the new director of the University Scholars program. Russell, who previously served as the program’s assistant director from 2009 to 2013, said returning as director felt like a natural next step. “It seemed a natural progression for me and something I’ve been wanting to do for a while,” Russell said. The University Scholars major is designed for academically driven students who want to build an education across multiple disciplines “The major cultivates a broad base of knowledge and skills across the arts and sciences and may include professional studies,” the program website reads. Russell takes over for Dr. Sarah Walden, a Baylor alumna and Baylor Interdisciplinary Core professor who served as director for a year. As he begins the new role, Russell said he hopes to build on the program’s existing strengths while creating an atmosphere centered on a culture of J.O.Y. The acronym, coined by current Baylor basketball coach Scott Drew, stands for “Jesus, others and yourself last.” “I love that acronym of Jesus, others and yourself last and just being authentically joyful and happy to be here,” Russell said. “I’d love to create that atmosphere for [students].” Oklahoma City, junior Jay Abbott, a University Scholar and former student of Russell, said Russell’s approach to teaching reflects that same sense of openness. Abbott described Russell as “incredible” and “super talented at teaching,” particularly praising the freedom Russell gives students to pursue their own interests. Rather than assigning narrowly defined topics, Abbott said Russell often gives students broad prompts that allow them to explore subjects they are passionate about. That approach is part of what Abbott said makes University Scholars different from the program’s reputation as a highly competitive major. Although University Scholars is among Baylor’s most selective undergraduate majors, Abbott said the program is less cutthroat than some might expect. Instead, he said it is an environment where students with diverse academic interests are encouraged to learn from one another and pursue those interests jointly. Russell aims to continue to cultivate that environment as he takes on the director role. “I certainly want to build on all the great work of my predecessors in this role who have gone before me,” Russell said. For Abbott, Russell’s influence extends beyond the classroom. As Abbott considers a career in education, he said Russell has inspired him. “His high level of scholarship combined with his approachable, humble demeanor and his really strong faith — those 3 things make him a model for me,” Abbott said. As director, Russell wants to remain authentic and hospitable, and he wants students to know he is available and there for them. As the program enters a new chapter under Russell’s leadership, Abbott said he is confident in the appointment. “I cannot think of a better person to be director for University Scholars, and I’m very happy that more University Scholars will have exposure to Dr. Russell,” Abbott said. Heading into the school year, Russell encouraged incoming University Scholars and any students contemplating their futures to pursue things that give their life meaning. “Follow your passion,” Russell said. “Hopefully your passion is your faith in Christ, but as part of that, what feeds your soul and what makes you happy? And hopefully, following a passion will lead you to your vocation, to your calling in life.”