Rooted in Faith, Growing in Character: Baylor Welcomes New Chaplain

As Baylor University prepares to welcome a new class of students this fall, it also welcomes one of its own into a new role: Charles Ramsey, Ph.D., B.A. ’97, M.A. ’00, a Baylor graduate who was named this Spring as University Chaplain and Dean of Spiritual Life. For Ramsey, the opportunity to serve students in a chaplaincy role is far more than a professional milestone —it’s deeply personal.

“I don’t think I ever imagined this was possible when I was a student,” Ramsey says. “Baylor shaped who I am—my calling, my friendships, my faith. Now, I have the honor of helping shape that experience for others.”

Ramsey’s vision for Spiritual Life builds on Baylor’s distinctive model—an integrated, campus-wide approach that supports faith formation through Chapel, mission trips and partnerships with churches, ministries and student organizations. He sees his role as stewarding that mission with fresh energy, particularly by fostering character development—what he calls “faith in action.”

“We want students not just to learn about faith, but to live it out,” he explains. “That means creating opportunities where students can grow by doing—through service, mentorship, reflection and spiritual engagement.”

In a diverse academic community, Ramsey emphasizes the value of clarity, hospitality and mutual respect. 

“We’re a Christian university, and that identity is clear,” he says. “But we also create space for dialogue and growth across faith traditions. No student should leave Baylor not knowing what Christianity is about—and no student should feel pressured. We invite. We don’t impose.”

What excites him for Baylor’s future? “This is a place where students can bring their whole selves—intellect, faith, questions—and be formed into leaders for a global, multicultural world. That gives me tremendous hope.”