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PLAINVIEW — ж¶Òõ Baptist University is celebrating a major milestone as the ж¶Òõ Advancement Council has exceeded its ambitious $1 million pledge.

The fundraising commitment, launched in October 2023, supports campus improvements, student scholarships, and recruiting initiatives—three vital components of the university’s ongoing mission. The pledge was first proposed by Dr. Glenda Payas, inaugural chair of the Advancement Council, during the group’s first meeting in Fall 2023. Inspired by the university’s vision and momentum, Dr. Payas encouraged members to take on the challenge.

“It has been an honor to serve ж¶Òõ Baptist University as Chair of the newly established Advancement Council,” Dr. Payas said. “ж¶Òõ is such a worthy cause, and I am proud to announce that the Advancement Council has exceeded our goal in raising more than $1 million toward the Thrive Campaign. We look forward to serving the university, through an active role to help it succeed in its future endeavors.” 

Since becoming chair, Johnny Terra has helped guide members to the finish line.

“This success belongs to every member of the council,” Terra said. “Each person brought something to the table—financially, relationally, and spiritually. I’m proud of what we’ve done together and excited about what’s next.”

Dr. Donna Hedgepath, who became the university’s 14th president in July 2024, also praised the council’s achievement.

“The Advancement Council has set a standard of excellence and generosity,” said Dr. Hedgepath. “This kind of momentum inspires all of us—faculty, students, staff, and alumni alike. We are deeply grateful for their commitment to ж¶Òõ’s future.”

The Advancement Council was formed through the leadership of Mike Hammack, ж¶Òõ’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement, to strengthen university development efforts through volunteer engagement and strategic counsel. Currently, 19 dedicated supporters from across Texas and beyond serve on the council in an advisory capacity.

“This council represents the best of ж¶Òõ’s extended family,” said Hammack. “Their wisdom, advocacy, and generosity are helping move the university forward in powerful ways.”

Funds raised through the pledge are already at work across ж¶Òõ campuses, supporting key capital projects, student scholarships, and enrollment initiatives that will shape the university’s impact for years to come.