BU Ambassadors, led by Judge Starr, head to D.C.

Baylor President and Chancellor Ken Starr led a group of Baylor representatives (both administrators and students) to the nation’s capital for a week of events in early February.

Highlights of the trip included continued discussions with Baylor partners Georgetown University and the well-respected Gallup Poll; meetings with legislators such as Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky; hosting a roundtable discussion on American foreign policy and faith-based organizations; the annual meeting of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (Starr is a NAICU board member); and the National Prayer Breakfast.

Meanwhile, a select group of Baylor students, known as the Baylor Ambassadors, met with more than a dozen legislators, including Texas’ U.S. Sens. John Cornyn and Ted Cruz and Rep. Bill Flores, and members of the Texas Congressional Delegation to encourage support of the Pell Grant, issues with Pell eligibility, research funding and increasing student worker opportunities. Four of the students also were honored to participate in the wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The Baylor delegation joined D.C.-area alumni for Baylor Sports Network watch parties to cheer on the Baylor Lady Bears and Bears in nationally televised games.

Judge Starr has noted that, as a research university with a strong Christian commitment, Baylor has a distinct role—and a responsibility—to offer insight into the issues affecting our students, our country and our world.