Learning to the Glory of God

As Rachel Butcher pores over a 14th-century, Austrian, illuminated manuscript -- a rare copy never before studied -- she marvels at the significant opportunities she has been given at Baylor, overwhelmed that her present reality once seemed an impossible dream.

A third-generation Baylor Bear, Rachel's Baylor story began long ago with her grandfather's daring escape from China hours before the Communist invasion. David Chu fled the country with gunfire blaring behind him -- ready to begin a new life in the United States. When David came to Baylor College of Medicine determined to become a medical missionary, his courageous story and heartfelt dreams inspired Earl Hankamer to anonymously provide his education. Upon graduation, David learned about his generous benefactor, who had unknowingly paved the way for another Baylor legacy.

Years later, Rachel's parents would meet on Baylor's campus and eventually marry in Miller Chapel. But for Rachel, following the family path to her own Baylor experience wasn't without obstacles.

She was accepted to Baylor as a senior in high school but was dismayed to discover a large financial gap preventing her Baylor dream. Almost every night, Rachel's mother would take her hands and pray that God would prepare a place for her at school -- a place where she would be not only provided for financially, but also would become a wise, mature Christian.

The C. Clifton and Betsy Sharp Robinson Endowed Scholarship Fund in the Honors College was the answer to their prayers. Rachel would be able to continue the Baylor family tradition because the Robinsons chose to share the blessing of education.

At Baylor, Rachel has learned about the relationship of faith and reason through the Crane Scholars program, she has analyzed historical manuscripts through the Green Scholars Initiative, and she has watched history come to life through study abroad experiences.

"The Honors College is a community of people who are really looking to learn about academics, and in turn, to learn about God, and they're seeking to glorify God through academics," Rachel says. "I would love to help other people come to know something about the truth and goodness and beauty of the Lord through my studies."

As she refines her knowledge of art history, classics and great texts through Baylor's University Scholars program, Rachel is well on her way.