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Disrupting The Spirits: 1953 Tequila

Named after the historic year Mexican women were given the Right to Vote, the 1953 Tequila company keeps social justice at its core and empowers women at every level: from the Jaliscan Highlands agave farm that sources its ultra-premium Anejo Tequila, to the unionized Mexican distillery that makes it and beyond.

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Stay up-to-date on all things related to the Baylor Family (on your terms). 

Losing Faith in College

Going to college in the United States is a fraught topic for pundits and politicians, who continually raise doubts about the value and purpose of a higher education. It’s too expensive, it’s for elites, it doesn’t deliver needed job skills, and students and families can end up saddled with crushing debt—whether or not the student actually graduates. But recent polls reveal that graduates still value a diploma. A Harris Poll survey conducted among 2023 college grads revealed that nine out of ten were glad they went to college. They also agreed that a degree is the best way to secure their futures.

The Picture on Ted Uhlaender’s Baseball Card

In fall 1957, just 5’9” weighing only 129 pounds Theodore Otto “Ted” Uhlaender journeyed from McAllen to Waco and asked to try-out for the baseball team. As a non-scholarship walk-on, he led the freshman team in hitting. By his junior year, Uhlaender was one of the Southwest Conference’s leading hitters, batting a sizzling .365. Ted was all-Southwest Conference in baseball three times. After graduating, it wasn’t long before he began an eight-year major league career with the Twins, Cleveland Indians, and ending with the Cincinnati Reds.

Shaping Minds to Sharing Stories: A Professor’s New Journey

In May 2023, the most awarded professor in Baylor’s history retired. A year later, he’s working more than ever. Reflecting on his time at Baylor, Robert Darden (’76), master teacher and emeritus professor of journalism, public relations, and new media, has not only left an impact on the university at large but also on the thousands of students who walked into his classrooms for over 30 years. Having had such gifted professors when he attended Baylor in the 1970s, Darden said it was these passionate and informed mentors who he tried to emulate in his classroom, as he desired to carry on their legacy.

Bears on Skis

Joe Gage III grew up on the water, his summer days occupied by buoys and the never-ending pursuit of the perfect gliding technique. His father was part of Baylor’s fledgling club water skiing team in the late 1980s and early ‘90s, and the younger Gage — an avid athlete — quickly adapted the elder’s love of the sport. “I’ve played a lot of other sports, but there’s nothing else like this,” Gage III said. “There’s a unique rush with waterskiing, and I’ve always been chasing that rush. I guess you could say it’s in my blood.” His father added: “I can remember going to my tax class with dripping wet clothes because I just came from practice and didn’t want to leave that time with my friends. So, to see Joe fall in love with the sport that gave me so much, that’s really special.”

Her Name Was Cindy Campbell Brown. She Died In 1995. And It’s Time You Knew Her Story.

Her name was Cindy Campbell Brown. Her age was 26. She was a Secret Service agent whose office was on the top floor of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. On April 19, 1995 at 9:02 a.m., Timothy McVeigh, 26, a U.S. Army veteran poisoned with anti-government hate, set off a truck bomb in front of the building where Cindy worked.  McVeigh had designed and built the bomb by hand along with his co-conspirator Terry Nichols. The blast sheared off the front of the 9-story, glass front federal building, reducing it to rubble.  The ensuing devastation killed 168 people, including Cindy.

A Class Apart

Of its many achievements, Baylor particularly enjoys two distinctions: that of being the oldest university in Texas (established by the Republic of Texas in 1845, before statehood) and the first university west of the Mississippi to go coed, 75 years before American women were guaranteed the right to vote. Though BU’s gender history may be complicated—the university segregated for about 35 years in 1851—there is no surer sign of its inclusivity than the legions of female Baylor graduates who continue to honor the university through their accomplishments.

10 Mexican Restaurants in Waco You Need To Try

One of the things we love the most about Waco is the perfect blend of American and Mexican cuisine, giving us authentic and delightful dishes with a touch of originality and unique flavors. Now, it’s time to explore the Mexican food scene that Waco has to offer us – get ready for an authentic experience, and let’s dive deep into the best 10 Mexican restaurants in Waco. Waco’s long, vibrant Latino history has created a cultural connection that is rich, vibrant, and worth exploring. This part of Central Texas belonged to Mexico after the Spanish empire took over, and then, in 1836, to the state of Texas, when it declared independence. So, it’s no surprise to find the flavors of Mexico taking over the Waco culinary scene. Whether you love tacos or fajitas, these places really know how to make delicious Mexican food. Join us as we explore the diverse and flavorful world of Mexican dishes in Waco, TX.

Witnessing the Eclipse: A Moment of Reflection

Truly nothing could prepare me for an experience like that. A complete and total eclipse, on April 8, 2024, the entire world around me changed within a matter of seconds. Day turned to night at 1:38 p.m.

Amazing Baylor Internships: Building a bridge beyond the classroom

From working alongside healthcare and community development specialists combating poverty throughout the United States and heading to Washington for a congressional internship or spending nine weeks in the lab alongside leaders in tropical disease research, Baylor University’s plentiful internship opportunities are thrilling and diverse. Internships are a sure-fire way for undergraduate students to not only put their academic studies to real-life practice — they are also a launching point for future employment and a valuable way to maximize collegiate experiences. They also help students decide if their career aspirations are on the right track. Across disciplines and interests these are six internship opportunities Baylor students should consider.

14 Fun & Romantic Waco Date Ideas

With its quirks, special spots, and charming scenes, Waco stands out as a wonderful city with a variety of date ideas. If you’re in the heart of Texas seeking enjoyable, romantic activities for a date in Waco, you’re in the right spot. Let’s discover 14 different fun, exciting, and romantic Waco date ideas.

Next On Your Nightstand: Books By Baylor Authors

A West Texas football coach struggles to reconcile his faith with the news of his daughter’s homosexuality; Baylor researchers unearth the world’s largest accumulation of Mammuthus columbi (Columbian Mammoth) skeletons, right here in Waco; Two English explorers seek to claim the Nile headwaters for England with the help of their East African guide; and a celebrity chef sautés cuttlefish for a seafood paella party. What do these stories have in common? All were written by members of the Baylor Family. With Baylor’s commitment to inspired action, it’s no surprise that fellow Bears publish a considerable number of books each year. Here are a few titles to look out for. 

The Many Murals of Waco

For years, Waco has been growing its reputation as a hub of arts and culture, and nowhere is this more apparent than on its public walls. Everywhere you turn in the City of Waco, Texas, a mural of inordinate quality is likely to greet you, offering insights into the town’s history or just being darn cute. Here are six eye-catching murals and 25 related others that make for a fun and funky treasure hunt.

The 11 Best Bars in Waco

Welcome to Waco’s lively night scene! From historic family-owned bars to modern nightlife spots, it’s time to indulge in the sweet flavors, aromas, and essences of Waco bars. From whiskey to wine and cocktails to craft beer, these bars in Waco are always worth visiting. Read here to check out the 10 best bars in Waco, TX. Hot spots include Balcones Distillery, One Day Bar, Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits, The Backyard, and Valley Mills Vineyards.

Total Eclipse of the Sun (Waco’s Version)

Baylor prepares for a once-in-a-lifetime event when Waco, TX will become a prime location to view a total solar eclipse. On April 8, 2024, observers in Waco will be in that “right time and right place.” The total solar eclipse is predicted to last more than four minutes and is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event. The last total solar eclipse visible in Waco was on July 29, 1878; the next one is not anticipated until after year 3000.

Is Comfort the New Couture? Current Baylor Campus Fashion Trends

From miniskirts to platform shoes, leg warmers to parachute pants, ripped jeans to cargo pants, fashion trends come and go. Classic looks like a plain white tee seem never to go out of style, but even some fads, like athleisure, that seem like passing trends end up having real staying power. Others — acid-wash denim, stirrup pants, and jelly shoes — have become downright cringe-worthy in retrospect. So, what influences our fashion choices in the first place?

The Lasting Legacy (and Long Life) of Dr. John Belew

From the moment of his birth, John Seymour Belew was destined to devote much of his life to Baylor. He was a war veteran, chemistry scholar, senior administrator, internationalist, civic leader, patron of the arts, and, most of all, a dedicated friend and family member. Thank you, John, for 102 years of life, love, and service.

Baylor Was Found Liable In a Recent Title IX Case. Hear From the Reporter Who Covered It. – with Dan Solomon

Nine years ago, Dolores Lozano claims she was violently assaulted by a Baylor football player and her boyfriend at the time. In 2016 she filed a lawsuit against the university, claiming that – despite having gone to administrators and football program leaders – her alma mater had been negligent in its handling of her reports of domestic violence and, as a result, violated her rights under the Title IX federal civil rights law. On Tuesday, a Waco jury found Baylor liable.

The Carleen Bright Arboretum Is Back and Beautiful

Just fifteen minutes down the road, the Carleen Bright Arboretum in Woodway, TX, is named after Baylor alumna and community leader Carleen Bright. It may be the perfect place to spend a day away from campus or if you need a break. “The Jewel of Woodway” is open again after renovations, attracting butterflies and plenty of local residents.

No, He Hasn’t Read The Elon Musk Biography – A Conversation with Dr. Peter Hotez

Dr. Hotez is the founding Dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine and Professor of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology at Baylor College of Medicine where he is also the Co-director of the Texas Children’s Center for Vaccine Development and Texas Children’s Hospital Endowed Chair of Tropical Pediatrics. He is also University Professor at Baylor University. His latest book is “The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science: A Scientists Warning.”

Get Your Cowboy On: Waco’s Western Attractions

There’s more to see in Waco than the Magnolia Silos. Just off the beaten path are some hidden gems: old-school barbeque joints, dance halls built by Czech immigrants, and a general store that carries everything from pearl-button shirts to the licorice-flavored chewing gum introduced way back in 1884.

Letter To a New Faculty Member

Baylor’s most awarded professor gives his advice to a new class of faculty: “If you’ll do those things, you’ll experience what Baylor professors have discovered for the past 178 years. More than anything you ever do or write or say, your greatest reward, your greatest fulfillment will come from the lives you have been privileged to touch every single day.”

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