For Taylor Morrow, there are not enough words for her to express how the faculty at Southwest Baptist University helped guide her through both her undergraduate and graduate education.
“I could go on and on about how SBU faculty have helped me academically and personally,” said Taylor ’19, ’20, who earned her bachelor of science degree in physical education and master of science degree in curriculum and instruction. “Academically, they helped prepare me to walk confidently into my first teaching job knowing that I was equipped to succeed.
“Personally, they’ve prayed over me, praised my skills, advised me in areas needing growth, helped me find jobs and currently serve as references. I call many of them today to both receive counsel and catch up.”
That first teaching job was as the sixth-grade girls’ physical education and health teacher at Seymour Rogers Middle School in Liberal, Kan.
“The academics at SBU taught me how to instruct students in a way that best helps them learn, and how to teach them biblical principals in a public school setting,” Taylor said.
Taylor says that nearly every connection she made while a student-athlete at SBU has helped her get to where she is today as a person and teacher.
“Coach Corey McElhaney provided me the opportunity to hone my skills as a college athlete while receiving my education,” Taylor said. “I also met my fiancé while competing on the track team. Joe Wooderson and Kenneth Spurgeon both still remain trusted education advisors.
“The education department helped me receive the opportunity to serve as a Graduate Assistant in the Success Center. This allowed me to earn my master’s degree and complete my fifth year of athletic eligibility. All of my references who helped me earn my current teaching position are connections from SBU. I am very thankful for all the connections SBU has brought me!”
Being connected on campus also was an important part of Taylor’s college experience and spiritual growth.
“I was mostly involved in SBU’s cross country and track teams,” Taylor said. “While competing, I served on SBU’s leadership team, helped lead many of our women’s team Bible studies, and got the opportunity to serve in Jamaica on a team mission trip. Each of these experiences has taught me how to trust the Lord and lean on other believers.
“While at SBU, I met my future husband and lifelong friends who pray over me and always point me back to Christ and His word.”
And those opportunities, experiences and people are what set SBU apart for Taylor.
“What makes SBU unique is the individuals – coaches and professors – who invest a lot of time into preparing their athletes and students to become well-rounded individuals who are ready to glorify the Lord in the world,” Taylor said.