University House Faculty in Residence
Welcome to University House - Faculty in Residence
What does a Faculty in Residence do? The Faculty-in-Residence (FIR) program at Baylor University exists to foster and shape the social, cultural, educational, and spiritual life within Baylor’s residential communities. As such, Faculty-In-Residence (FIR) are faculty members who live in designated on-campus residential communities. Faculty-In-Residence work collaboratively with CL&L leadership and residence hall staff (professional Residence Hall Director, Resident Chaplain (Truett Seminary graduate student, and student Community Leaders) to create diverse residential environments that support learning and faith development through the cultivation of relationally driven communities.
The Phillips family - Meredith and Prof Phillips are in room 1204 - please come say hello!
Most every year we climb a 14'eener or pursue some type of wilderness adventure.
Meredith is an Instructional Coach at Rapoport Academy and loves running most every night around the Law School - come knock on the door if you want to run with her!
I have been teaching at Baylor for 19 years. Prior to moving to Waco, I was a soloist and musician in the "President's Own" United States Marine Band in Washington DC. I still enjoy performing and look forward to my time with the Abilene Philharmonic, Waco Symphony, Houston Symphony, Baylor Brass, Dallas Symphony and performing with my colleagues and students on campus and off.
I continue to train for the Leadville 100 MTB race and hope to successfully complete that race in the coming years.
Our two sons are Anderson (23) and Keyson (21). They are out of the house and working in Waco. Keyson is a mechanic, bike builder, at Bicycle World Waco and Anderson is an electrician currently with Lockridge Priest.
God bless each of you and I will see you around the house!!!
- Meredith Phillips
- Brent Phillips - Professor, SOM
Most every year we climb a 14'eener or pursue some type of wilderness adventure.
Meredith is an Instructional Coach at Rapoport Academy and loves running most every night around the Law School - come knock on the door if you want to run with her!
I have been teaching at Baylor for 19 years. Prior to moving to Waco, I was a soloist and musician in the "President's Own" United States Marine Band in Washington DC. I still enjoy performing and look forward to my time with the Abilene Philharmonic, Waco Symphony, Houston Symphony, Baylor Brass, Dallas Symphony and performing with my colleagues and students on campus and off.
I continue to train for the Leadville 100 MTB race and hope to successfully complete that race in the coming years.
Our two sons are Anderson (23) and Keyson (21). They are out of the house and working in Waco. Keyson is a mechanic, bike builder, at Bicycle World Waco and Anderson is an electrician currently with Lockridge Priest.
God bless each of you and I will see you around the house!!!
Spring 2023 Events
Guest Faculty "TED Talks" - Wednesday night Fireside Hang - S'mores
Wednesdays at 6PM at the University House/Texana Fire-pit
Guest FIR's will give their 10-12 minute TED talk on topics they teach and research. Your role - come and listen, engage, ponder, contemplate, and ask questions if you have any..
Jan 25 - Lesley McAllister "The Cult of Busyness" Dr. Lesley McAllister is Professor of Piano and Director of Piano Pedagogy in Baylor’s School of Music. She is a pianist, yoga instructor, and advocate for using yoga, sport psychology research, and mind/body relaxation techniques as a way to help musicians of every age reach peak performance. Texana FIR
Feb 8 - Clay Butler “Metaphors in Language” Dr. Clay Butler serves as a Senior Lecturer in the English Department. He teaches courses for the Linguistics major, such as Language in Society, Cross-Cultural Linguistics, and Modern English Grammar. Martin Hall FIR
Feb 22 - Brent Phillips - “Deep Practice - See, Feel, Trust” - we need more practice, we need to know how to practice, why to practice, and when to practice and most importantly, what to practice. What do you practice? We are all practicing something daily - perhaps your daily practice is undermining your goals hopes and dreams. I will discuss my thoughts about building a routine, how I learn a concerto, and how deep practice is both biblical and needed. Daily practice is how we gain confidence, peace, and strength in times of adversity and allows us true identity and self-worth. BP is a Professor of Trombone (practice) at Baylor, the former associate principal trombone of the "President's Own" US Marine Band in Washington DC, director of the Mountain Light Music Festival and performs regularly in symposia, recitals, concerts, and is a frequent clinician and guest artist in conservatories and universities in the US.
March 20 - Monday! with Marciel Demesa "Chem for ALL" Dr. Maricel Demesa is a senior lecturer in the Chemistry and Biochemistry department at Baylor University. Having served at Baylor since 2009, she teaches introductory and general chemistry for science and non-science majors. Kokernot FIR
March 29 - Brian Thomas “A work in Haiti” Professor Brian Thomas (or PT as his students call him) is a Senior Lecturer in Electrical & Computer Engineering and has served on the faculty since 2001. Prior to coming to Baylor, he worked as an engineer in the private sector and holds an MEE in Electrical Engineering from University of Houston and a BS in Physics from Stephen F. Austin State University.
Brian Thomas is the lead faculty member of the new Humanitarian Engineering concentration at Baylor. Since 2005, Brian has partnered with Baylor Missions to lead many student teams to Kenya, Honduras, and Haiti to implement discipline-specific service-learning trips. He is also the faculty sponsor of the student organization, Engineers with a Mission, and serves as the director of the Justice and Mercy Engineering Society (JAMES) - a program that operates under the non-profit umbrella of Mission Waco. Teal Residential College FIR
April 5 - Special Guest “A word from Nana” - Come hear a special word from BP’s mom. Nana will speak on life, love, raising children, and living in fullness. She is a modern day Ruth, biblical character, a woman who after being widowed remains with her husband’s mother. She is a symbol of abiding loyalty and devotion. Against all odds redemption is always possible. Ruth had no reason to believe she had earned anything but believed God was everything she needed. Ruth believed God would provide and in that place of faith God did a miraculous work to redeem Ruth.
He took a poor, hurting outcast and healed her, provided for her, and brought her a great love with Boaz.
Redemption is possible in your life. No matter where you come from or what you've been through, God has a plan for you that far surpasses all of that.
April 12 - Kelli McMahan “Spirit of Adventure” Dr. Kelli McMahan serves as the Faculty in Residence for Penland Hall which carries a Fitness and Wellness theme, as well as house the Outdoor Adventure Living-Learning Center. Dr. McMahan is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Recreation and Leisure Services program within the Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation (HHPR). Dr. McMahan began her career at Baylor in 2001 in Campus Recreation where she directed the Outdoor Adventure Program and developed the Outdoor Adventure Line Camp, the Outdoor Adventure Living-Learning Center, and the Great Brazos Relay race event. Penland FIR
Wednesdays at 6PM at the University House/Texana Fire-pit
Guest FIR's will give their 10-12 minute TED talk on topics they teach and research. Your role - come and listen, engage, ponder, contemplate, and ask questions if you have any..
Jan 25 - Lesley McAllister "The Cult of Busyness" Dr. Lesley McAllister is Professor of Piano and Director of Piano Pedagogy in Baylor’s School of Music. She is a pianist, yoga instructor, and advocate for using yoga, sport psychology research, and mind/body relaxation techniques as a way to help musicians of every age reach peak performance. Texana FIR
Feb 8 - Clay Butler “Metaphors in Language” Dr. Clay Butler serves as a Senior Lecturer in the English Department. He teaches courses for the Linguistics major, such as Language in Society, Cross-Cultural Linguistics, and Modern English Grammar. Martin Hall FIR
Feb 22 - Brent Phillips - “Deep Practice - See, Feel, Trust” - we need more practice, we need to know how to practice, why to practice, and when to practice and most importantly, what to practice. What do you practice? We are all practicing something daily - perhaps your daily practice is undermining your goals hopes and dreams. I will discuss my thoughts about building a routine, how I learn a concerto, and how deep practice is both biblical and needed. Daily practice is how we gain confidence, peace, and strength in times of adversity and allows us true identity and self-worth. BP is a Professor of Trombone (practice) at Baylor, the former associate principal trombone of the "President's Own" US Marine Band in Washington DC, director of the Mountain Light Music Festival and performs regularly in symposia, recitals, concerts, and is a frequent clinician and guest artist in conservatories and universities in the US.
March 20 - Monday! with Marciel Demesa "Chem for ALL" Dr. Maricel Demesa is a senior lecturer in the Chemistry and Biochemistry department at Baylor University. Having served at Baylor since 2009, she teaches introductory and general chemistry for science and non-science majors. Kokernot FIR
March 29 - Brian Thomas “A work in Haiti” Professor Brian Thomas (or PT as his students call him) is a Senior Lecturer in Electrical & Computer Engineering and has served on the faculty since 2001. Prior to coming to Baylor, he worked as an engineer in the private sector and holds an MEE in Electrical Engineering from University of Houston and a BS in Physics from Stephen F. Austin State University.
Brian Thomas is the lead faculty member of the new Humanitarian Engineering concentration at Baylor. Since 2005, Brian has partnered with Baylor Missions to lead many student teams to Kenya, Honduras, and Haiti to implement discipline-specific service-learning trips. He is also the faculty sponsor of the student organization, Engineers with a Mission, and serves as the director of the Justice and Mercy Engineering Society (JAMES) - a program that operates under the non-profit umbrella of Mission Waco. Teal Residential College FIR
April 5 - Special Guest “A word from Nana” - Come hear a special word from BP’s mom. Nana will speak on life, love, raising children, and living in fullness. She is a modern day Ruth, biblical character, a woman who after being widowed remains with her husband’s mother. She is a symbol of abiding loyalty and devotion. Against all odds redemption is always possible. Ruth had no reason to believe she had earned anything but believed God was everything she needed. Ruth believed God would provide and in that place of faith God did a miraculous work to redeem Ruth.
He took a poor, hurting outcast and healed her, provided for her, and brought her a great love with Boaz.
Redemption is possible in your life. No matter where you come from or what you've been through, God has a plan for you that far surpasses all of that.
April 12 - Kelli McMahan “Spirit of Adventure” Dr. Kelli McMahan serves as the Faculty in Residence for Penland Hall which carries a Fitness and Wellness theme, as well as house the Outdoor Adventure Living-Learning Center. Dr. McMahan is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Recreation and Leisure Services program within the Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation (HHPR). Dr. McMahan began her career at Baylor in 2001 in Campus Recreation where she directed the Outdoor Adventure Program and developed the Outdoor Adventure Line Camp, the Outdoor Adventure Living-Learning Center, and the Great Brazos Relay race event. Penland FIR
Fall 2022 EVENTS
UHOUSE Women's Power Breakfasts
We will start by doing this twice a week. Every Wed and Thurs morning at 8:30 AM in the downstairs lobby.
I will have a verse or thought for the week, and hopefully get to meet more of you.
Menu items may include:
Made to order omlettes
Protein feast (bacon eggs - superscram)
Phillips Flapjacks
Yogurt granola bonanza
This will be your time - you can hang and chat or eat on the run. This is one chance to miss the Penland breakfast rush and streamline your Wed Thurs AM schedule.
Looking forward to meeting each of you~~!!
Prof BP
We will start by doing this twice a week. Every Wed and Thurs morning at 8:30 AM in the downstairs lobby.
I will have a verse or thought for the week, and hopefully get to meet more of you.
Menu items may include:
Made to order omlettes
Protein feast (bacon eggs - superscram)
Phillips Flapjacks
Yogurt granola bonanza
This will be your time - you can hang and chat or eat on the run. This is one chance to miss the Penland breakfast rush and streamline your Wed Thurs AM schedule.
Looking forward to meeting each of you~~!!
Prof BP
Past EVENTS
Special Guests at University House - Fireside Hang - UHouse grill
Fireside Hang discussion leader
Don Carpenter - Clinical Assistant Professor - Accounting & Business Law
Thursday, February 3rd - 5:30 PM
"Should we forgive college debt - social contracts and zero sum gain"
Based on feedback from you and your CL's - Don comes highly recommended! He was awarded "Most Popular Professor" by the Hankamer School of Business in 2020. He teaches accounting and his research interests include "Major changes in Taxation" and has extensive leadership and business management experience.
Don Carpenter - Clinical Assistant Professor - Accounting & Business Law
Thursday, February 3rd - 5:30 PM
"Should we forgive college debt - social contracts and zero sum gain"
Based on feedback from you and your CL's - Don comes highly recommended! He was awarded "Most Popular Professor" by the Hankamer School of Business in 2020. He teaches accounting and his research interests include "Major changes in Taxation" and has extensive leadership and business management experience.
Fireside Hang discussion leader
Capt John Jennings - Delta Airlines - USAF
Thursday, February 17th - 5:30 PM
"How to Survive in the flight business"
Pilot John Jennings is a fearless leader and has years of flight command and experience in the Air Force and with Delta Airlines. He will join us via Zoom to talk about the challenges, rewards, and changes to the industry.
Capt John Jennings - Delta Airlines - USAF
Thursday, February 17th - 5:30 PM
"How to Survive in the flight business"
Pilot John Jennings is a fearless leader and has years of flight command and experience in the Air Force and with Delta Airlines. He will join us via Zoom to talk about the challenges, rewards, and changes to the industry.
Fireside Hang discussion leader
Brent Phillips - Professor, Applied Trombone, School of Music, FIR, Principal Trombone ~ Waco Symphony, Abilene Philharmonic, Mountain Guide, Fly-fishing Guide
Thursday, February 24th - 5:30 PM
"Why you should listen to great music"
Bruckner, Wagner, Brahms, John Williams, Shostakovich, Copeland - all have a story to tell. They compose from a position in history that "binds" us all to the human condition. Our suffering (personal and societal) is nothing knew. How can listening to this great music give us solace, peace, focus, and a renewed energy towards life? How can listening to this great music bring us healing and help us to be compassionate? I will share my top 10 playlist with you on Spotify and outline how and why listening actively to music of this kind, weekly, can make you a better person. Lastly - God's word tells us that when we are oppressed by a "spirit of heaviness" we are to dawn the garment of praise." I will teach you how to actively listen. Join me on this adventure.
Brent Phillips - Professor, Applied Trombone, School of Music, FIR, Principal Trombone ~ Waco Symphony, Abilene Philharmonic, Mountain Guide, Fly-fishing Guide
Thursday, February 24th - 5:30 PM
"Why you should listen to great music"
Bruckner, Wagner, Brahms, John Williams, Shostakovich, Copeland - all have a story to tell. They compose from a position in history that "binds" us all to the human condition. Our suffering (personal and societal) is nothing knew. How can listening to this great music give us solace, peace, focus, and a renewed energy towards life? How can listening to this great music bring us healing and help us to be compassionate? I will share my top 10 playlist with you on Spotify and outline how and why listening actively to music of this kind, weekly, can make you a better person. Lastly - God's word tells us that when we are oppressed by a "spirit of heaviness" we are to dawn the garment of praise." I will teach you how to actively listen. Join me on this adventure.
Fireside Hang discussion leader
"Master Teacher" Professor Tom Hanks - is Professor Emeritus of English
Thursday, April 7th - 6:00 PM
"Why did Jesus add 'and with all your mind' to the ways we are to love God?" - ("Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength," Mark 12:30
As Professor of English at Baylor University, Dr. Hanks is steeped in his favorite research topics: Sir Thomas Malory and King Arthur, his boyhood fascination. After earning a Ph.D. in English from the University of Minnesota, Dr. Hanks made his way to Baylor in 1976 where he began to publish on medieval literature. Major publications include “The Rhetoric of the Folk Fairy Tale in Sir Thomas Malory’s Tale of Sir Gareth,” “Isode’s ‘Sownyng vppon the c--sse of Sir Trystram’ in Malory’s Morte Darthur,” and “Textual Harassment: Caxton, de Worde, and Malory’s Morte Darthur.”
Dr. Hanks has long served on the advisory council for Baylor’s Academy for Teaching and Learning and, in addition to English, he has taught in the Baylor Interdisciplinary Core since its inception. Dr. Hanks has garnered many awards for teaching at Baylor including: Collins Outstanding Professor Award, 1998; Baylor Centennial Professor, 1998-1999; Outstanding Faculty Award, 2001; Cornelia Marschall Smith Professor of the Year Award, 2004; and the Master Teacher designation, 2005.
"Master Teacher" Professor Tom Hanks - is Professor Emeritus of English
Thursday, April 7th - 6:00 PM
"Why did Jesus add 'and with all your mind' to the ways we are to love God?" - ("Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength," Mark 12:30
As Professor of English at Baylor University, Dr. Hanks is steeped in his favorite research topics: Sir Thomas Malory and King Arthur, his boyhood fascination. After earning a Ph.D. in English from the University of Minnesota, Dr. Hanks made his way to Baylor in 1976 where he began to publish on medieval literature. Major publications include “The Rhetoric of the Folk Fairy Tale in Sir Thomas Malory’s Tale of Sir Gareth,” “Isode’s ‘Sownyng vppon the c--sse of Sir Trystram’ in Malory’s Morte Darthur,” and “Textual Harassment: Caxton, de Worde, and Malory’s Morte Darthur.”
Dr. Hanks has long served on the advisory council for Baylor’s Academy for Teaching and Learning and, in addition to English, he has taught in the Baylor Interdisciplinary Core since its inception. Dr. Hanks has garnered many awards for teaching at Baylor including: Collins Outstanding Professor Award, 1998; Baylor Centennial Professor, 1998-1999; Outstanding Faculty Award, 2001; Cornelia Marschall Smith Professor of the Year Award, 2004; and the Master Teacher designation, 2005.
Fireside Hang discussion leader
Dr. Perry Glanzer - is Professor of Educational Foundations and a Resident Scholar with Baylor Institute for Studies of Religion
Thursday, April 14th
"Why Men are Giving Up on College: The Death of Gentlemen"
He is the co-author, most recently, of Christ Enlivened Student Affairs: A Guide to Christian Thinking and Practices in the Field (Abilene Christian University Press, 2020) and The Outrageous Idea of the Christian Teacher (Oxford University Press, 2019). Some of his other co-authored books include: The Quest for Purpose: The Collegiate Search for a Meaningful Life (SUNY Press, 2017) and Restoring the Soul of the University: Unifying Christian Higher Education in a Fragmented Age (Intervarsity, 2017); The Idea of a Christian College: A Reexamination for Today’s University (Cascade, 2013), Christianity and Moral Identity in Higher Education (Palgrave-Macmillan, 2009), and Christianity and Scholarship in Higher Education (Jossey-Bass, 2007). He also co-edited Christian Higher Education: A Global Reconnaissance (Eerdmans, 2014) and Taking Captive Every Thought: Forty Years of Christian Scholar’s Review (Abilene Christian University Press, 2011).
In addition, Dr. Glanzer has authored or co-authored over 75 journal articles and book chapters on topics related to moral education, faith-based higher education, and the relationship between religion and education. He is currently the Editor-in-Chief of Christian Scholar's Review.
Dr. Perry Glanzer - is Professor of Educational Foundations and a Resident Scholar with Baylor Institute for Studies of Religion
Thursday, April 14th
"Why Men are Giving Up on College: The Death of Gentlemen"
He is the co-author, most recently, of Christ Enlivened Student Affairs: A Guide to Christian Thinking and Practices in the Field (Abilene Christian University Press, 2020) and The Outrageous Idea of the Christian Teacher (Oxford University Press, 2019). Some of his other co-authored books include: The Quest for Purpose: The Collegiate Search for a Meaningful Life (SUNY Press, 2017) and Restoring the Soul of the University: Unifying Christian Higher Education in a Fragmented Age (Intervarsity, 2017); The Idea of a Christian College: A Reexamination for Today’s University (Cascade, 2013), Christianity and Moral Identity in Higher Education (Palgrave-Macmillan, 2009), and Christianity and Scholarship in Higher Education (Jossey-Bass, 2007). He also co-edited Christian Higher Education: A Global Reconnaissance (Eerdmans, 2014) and Taking Captive Every Thought: Forty Years of Christian Scholar’s Review (Abilene Christian University Press, 2011).
In addition, Dr. Glanzer has authored or co-authored over 75 journal articles and book chapters on topics related to moral education, faith-based higher education, and the relationship between religion and education. He is currently the Editor-in-Chief of Christian Scholar's Review.
Fireside Hang discussion leader
Jeff Buell - Director of Ten24 ministries. Pastor, missions, adventure travel, discipleship training, church planting.
Thursday, April 21, 6:00 PM
Hebrews 10:24 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
Jeff will speak on what it means to spur one another on toward love and good deeds - in our current "rise of self" society, that claims rights, privileges, reparations, safe spaces, and personal care. We rarely consider how being a servant leader and ambassador of courage and encouragement transforms those around us and renews our souls.
Jeff Buell - Director of Ten24 ministries. Pastor, missions, adventure travel, discipleship training, church planting.
Thursday, April 21, 6:00 PM
Hebrews 10:24 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
Jeff will speak on what it means to spur one another on toward love and good deeds - in our current "rise of self" society, that claims rights, privileges, reparations, safe spaces, and personal care. We rarely consider how being a servant leader and ambassador of courage and encouragement transforms those around us and renews our souls.
Fireside Hang discussion leader
Todd Hellner – Increment Integration and Operations Manager for NASA’s International Space Station Program
Thursday, April 28- 6:00 PM
"Learning from our past - how to prevent our personal live from being destroyed by the same pitfalls that let to the Space Shuttle Challenger and Space Shuttle Columbia accidents"
You will not want to miss this time with Todd Hellner.
Todd has been working at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX since earning a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1991. During the past 30+ years he has supported the Space Shuttle Program, the Orion Program, and the International Space Station Program and worked with some of the most brilliant scientists and engineers on the planet. He has a heart for students and seeing them use their God-given talents, gifts, and abilities to glorify God and draw others to God. He also wants students to learn from history and avoid the destructive paths that we all can easily find ourselves on if we do not recognize the normalization of deviance in our own lives.
Todd Hellner – Increment Integration and Operations Manager for NASA’s International Space Station Program
Thursday, April 28- 6:00 PM
"Learning from our past - how to prevent our personal live from being destroyed by the same pitfalls that let to the Space Shuttle Challenger and Space Shuttle Columbia accidents"
You will not want to miss this time with Todd Hellner.
Todd has been working at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX since earning a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1991. During the past 30+ years he has supported the Space Shuttle Program, the Orion Program, and the International Space Station Program and worked with some of the most brilliant scientists and engineers on the planet. He has a heart for students and seeing them use their God-given talents, gifts, and abilities to glorify God and draw others to God. He also wants students to learn from history and avoid the destructive paths that we all can easily find ourselves on if we do not recognize the normalization of deviance in our own lives.
Fireside Hang discussion leader
Dr. Rodney Bowden - former Dean, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Professor
TBA
"Leadership - perils of indecision vs the glory of a well thought out and executed plan"
Dr. Bowden will talk about leadership as it relates to a great episode in "Band of Brothers" - informed, decisive decision making as illustrated by Richard Winters. What reckless leadership looks like in combat, in business and how to avoid those perils. The second episode of Band of Brothers (HBO mini series) is one of the most revered, historically accurate mini series on WW2 by Stephen Ambrose. What are the characteristics of great leadership and how can we be mindful of "Day of Days" when it comes to exercising leadership in our lives.
Dr. Rodney Bowden - former Dean, Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Professor
TBA
"Leadership - perils of indecision vs the glory of a well thought out and executed plan"
Dr. Bowden will talk about leadership as it relates to a great episode in "Band of Brothers" - informed, decisive decision making as illustrated by Richard Winters. What reckless leadership looks like in combat, in business and how to avoid those perils. The second episode of Band of Brothers (HBO mini series) is one of the most revered, historically accurate mini series on WW2 by Stephen Ambrose. What are the characteristics of great leadership and how can we be mindful of "Day of Days" when it comes to exercising leadership in our lives.
-Twelve Rules For Life Mens Study at U-House
I have had the distinct opportunity to mentor serval over this content. At first glance you may think that many of these rules don't apply - or at least don't apply now. They do.
The reading is in-depth however the study guide is concise. JBP is a charismatic personality within the academy, but the truths in this book will help inform on issues the academy is less ready to address. We are experiencing the largest male-female gap in American history of higher education. The US enrolled 1.5 million less students than five years ago and males accounted for 70% of that decline. Baylor has traditionally enrolled over 60% females and struggles to stay at that target. Why? Colleges have a guy problem...
The processes in this book speak to cultural and societal deficiencies that young men face today.
I would enjoy meeting weekly with a small group - pizza on me - for those that wish to travel down this road. We will read on our own, some together, have a meal, and go over a few discussion questions.
Please fill out the interest survey below for more information about the author and details about when and where.
Please - join me~
Prof BP
I have had the distinct opportunity to mentor serval over this content. At first glance you may think that many of these rules don't apply - or at least don't apply now. They do.
The reading is in-depth however the study guide is concise. JBP is a charismatic personality within the academy, but the truths in this book will help inform on issues the academy is less ready to address. We are experiencing the largest male-female gap in American history of higher education. The US enrolled 1.5 million less students than five years ago and males accounted for 70% of that decline. Baylor has traditionally enrolled over 60% females and struggles to stay at that target. Why? Colleges have a guy problem...
The processes in this book speak to cultural and societal deficiencies that young men face today.
I would enjoy meeting weekly with a small group - pizza on me - for those that wish to travel down this road. We will read on our own, some together, have a meal, and go over a few discussion questions.
Please fill out the interest survey below for more information about the author and details about when and where.
Please - join me~
Prof BP
Welcome to the FIR University House!
I am looking forward to working with each of you and encouraging you on your academic and spiritual journey while here at Baylor. There will be numerous opportunities to collaborate and build community within UHouse and Baylor.
About me:
You may call me Professor Phillips or BP! I am in my 17th year of teaching at Baylor. I am a musician and artist/faculty in the School of Music. I play and teach trombone, chamber music, Low Brass Methods, Brass Literature and Pedagogy and conduct the Baylor Trombone Choir. I recruit and teach a studio of 12-16 majors. These students are the best in the business and come from all over the country. They major in Music Ed, Performance, and Composition. Most all of my students go on to sit in top professional orchestras or teach in higher education. Many are leaders and band directors in large TX programs.
Before coming to Baylor I was in the "President's Own" US Marine Band in Washington DC. Our principal role was to provide musical support to the White House. I served in the Bush and Clinton administrations. I recorded numerous albums with the "President's Own" and soloed on national concert tours. During 911 I was called to perform at ground zero in NYC following the attack and at Camp David in a private prayer service for the Bush family.
My scholarship is focused on performance, recording projects, recitals and professional concert engagement. I have recorded seven CD's (solo and chamber) along with numerous from the Marine Band. I can also be found on old Discovery Channel shows during Shark Week, O'Sheas Big Adventure and Adventure Planet shows. I plan on writing about being a FIR and working with each of you as I champion your work and am proud of the work we do together at Baylor.
My personal FIR UHouse Mission:
I believe we, as men are to lead courageously, reject passivity and expect the great reward. We are to pursue excellence and work daily to become servant leaders. We are to die to self and honor our wives and do what you have to do now so you can do what you want to do later. I have not been victorious in all of these endeavors but with God's grace and forgiveness, He has shown me how to walk humbly and in the "power of His might."
Men today are largely fatherless and are in desperate need of initiation. Men are burnt out and seeking something that is missing. I believe Christ is the only power to fill that void. We can lead a life of striving and indulgence for a time but it usually ends in crisis.
The Five Elements of Living Life on Purpose:
I am looking forward to working with each of you and encouraging you on your academic and spiritual journey while here at Baylor. There will be numerous opportunities to collaborate and build community within UHouse and Baylor.
About me:
You may call me Professor Phillips or BP! I am in my 17th year of teaching at Baylor. I am a musician and artist/faculty in the School of Music. I play and teach trombone, chamber music, Low Brass Methods, Brass Literature and Pedagogy and conduct the Baylor Trombone Choir. I recruit and teach a studio of 12-16 majors. These students are the best in the business and come from all over the country. They major in Music Ed, Performance, and Composition. Most all of my students go on to sit in top professional orchestras or teach in higher education. Many are leaders and band directors in large TX programs.
Before coming to Baylor I was in the "President's Own" US Marine Band in Washington DC. Our principal role was to provide musical support to the White House. I served in the Bush and Clinton administrations. I recorded numerous albums with the "President's Own" and soloed on national concert tours. During 911 I was called to perform at ground zero in NYC following the attack and at Camp David in a private prayer service for the Bush family.
My scholarship is focused on performance, recording projects, recitals and professional concert engagement. I have recorded seven CD's (solo and chamber) along with numerous from the Marine Band. I can also be found on old Discovery Channel shows during Shark Week, O'Sheas Big Adventure and Adventure Planet shows. I plan on writing about being a FIR and working with each of you as I champion your work and am proud of the work we do together at Baylor.
My personal FIR UHouse Mission:
I believe we, as men are to lead courageously, reject passivity and expect the great reward. We are to pursue excellence and work daily to become servant leaders. We are to die to self and honor our wives and do what you have to do now so you can do what you want to do later. I have not been victorious in all of these endeavors but with God's grace and forgiveness, He has shown me how to walk humbly and in the "power of His might."
Men today are largely fatherless and are in desperate need of initiation. Men are burnt out and seeking something that is missing. I believe Christ is the only power to fill that void. We can lead a life of striving and indulgence for a time but it usually ends in crisis.
The Five Elements of Living Life on Purpose:
- Out of the Ordinary - stepping out of the known into the unknown - read the poem "If" by Rudyard Kipling on the wall, second floor, next to our "Chair of Wisdom." Life comes to us hard and fast. Until we learn how to serve God and others with deliberate every day small ordinary ways we will not be prepared for anything bigger. Everyone wants a revolution but no one wants to do the dishes!
- Uncertain Outcome - Fear keeps us from moving out into the world and take on risk. Fear prevents us from living for a greater purpose and a transcendent cause. You must be willing to risk, fill out the application, work hard, take the audition, compete in a race (to win) and most importantly, you must be willing to accept that the outcome may be failure! Failure is the necessary component in success. Are you afraid to try? What are you afraid of? Go with God and cast your cares on him. Learn to be fathered by God.
- Passion - "Only passions, great passions, can elevate the souls of men to greater things" - Denis Diderot. Adventure is not frivolous or self indulgent - the opposite is true. Our passion fulfill the eternal sense of what God gave us and empower us to achieve our true potential. God has gifted each of you with specific tools and desires - use them for His glory and celebrate these. "I believe that God made me for a purpose. But He also made me fast, and when I run, I feel His pleasure" - Eric Liddell. Develop your craft! "Leidenschaft" (suffering-ship) is passionate experiential service through apprenticeship and outreach. This experiential passion through suffering is similar in meaning to the "Passion of Christ" or Bach's St Mathew's Passion. You are not really passionate about something until you are willing to suffer for it.
- Mindfulness - "Happiness, not in another place but in this place.... not in another hour, but this hour" - Walt Whitman. Mindfulness is being fully present in the moment - the smell of the wilderness, sound of the wind, waves, road or trail under your tires. It is the sun on your face. Taking time to listen to each other and "be still and know" - letting God speak and hearing your soul and His voice is the essence of mindfulness.
- Companionship - Band of Brothers by Stephen Ambrose (also in the "Chair of Wisdom" library on the second floor) depicts an incredible journey of the men of E Company, 506th, 101st Airborne as they began the assault on the beach of Normandy all the way to Hitler's Eagle's Nest... I firmly believe that initiation and masculinity cannot be learned alone. These attributes that are designed by God are learned in a company of men. This is not to say that your mother has nothing to offer you. Quite the contrary - she provides essential elements of grace, mercy and strength. However, the art of apprenticeship and the passing down of wisdom, from father to son, and from a company of experienced men is simply not replicated elsewhere. Your time at University House will hopefully be rewarded by strong bonds of courage, faith, Strength and Honor built on firm Christian relationships with other gents.
Fall 2021 Events
Wednesday Mornings Uhouse Breakfast with the FIR - Every Wed at 8:30 AM
Wed September 1st - first floor (Phillips Flapjacks)
Wed September 8th - second floor (made to order omelets)
Wed September 15th - BP traveling (no breakfast)
Wed September 22nd - third floor (migas)
Wed September 29th - fourth floor (Phillips super scram)
Wed September 8th - second floor (made to order omelets)
Wed September 15th - BP traveling (no breakfast)
Wed September 22nd - third floor (migas)
Wed September 29th - fourth floor (Phillips super scram)
Monday Night Lights - Every Monday - We roll at 7PM
WHAT: Monday Night Lights in Cameron Park
WHO:
For those mountain bike enthusiasts at University House who want to explore riding in our premiere mountain bike system - Cameron Park - this is for you!
This is for those with some single track experience.
WHEN:
We roll every Monday night from the Uhouse bike racks promptly at 7PM.
LIGHTS?
You will need at least a 650 Lumen front mounted light or headlamp. These are for sale at Bicycle World from $50-$135.
https://www.visitbicycleworld.com/product-list/accessories-1109/lighting-1130/?startrow=30
WHAT KIND OF BIKE DO I NEED?
You will need a mountain bike of similar or higher quality as the following:
Specialized: Rock Hopper, Stump Jumper, Epic
Giant: Trance
Scott: Contessa, Scale, Spark
Trek: Marlin
Most riders clip in. Most ride full suspension in Cameron Park but I am still on a hard tail. This will be a guided ride with several bail outs and shorter loops. All of the trails end along River Trail. For those needing a few less climbs or technical descents, we will separate out and rejoin down trail.
WHO:
For those mountain bike enthusiasts at University House who want to explore riding in our premiere mountain bike system - Cameron Park - this is for you!
This is for those with some single track experience.
WHEN:
We roll every Monday night from the Uhouse bike racks promptly at 7PM.
LIGHTS?
You will need at least a 650 Lumen front mounted light or headlamp. These are for sale at Bicycle World from $50-$135.
https://www.visitbicycleworld.com/product-list/accessories-1109/lighting-1130/?startrow=30
WHAT KIND OF BIKE DO I NEED?
You will need a mountain bike of similar or higher quality as the following:
Specialized: Rock Hopper, Stump Jumper, Epic
Giant: Trance
Scott: Contessa, Scale, Spark
Trek: Marlin
Most riders clip in. Most ride full suspension in Cameron Park but I am still on a hard tail. This will be a guided ride with several bail outs and shorter loops. All of the trails end along River Trail. For those needing a few less climbs or technical descents, we will separate out and rejoin down trail.
Spring 2021 EVENTS
Contestants travel to and within multiple parts of campus to complete 7 legs based on clues given. The clues in each leg point the teams to the next destination or direct them to perform a task, either together or by a single member. Each task showcases parts of the Baylor campus. The key is to move quickly between stations, complete the task, secure the "Travel Token" from each station and move through each leg to return to Uhouse first.
Each CL will man a separate station and there will be a few surprises along the way.
At the completion of the game, dinner will be served to all participants.
The winning team will receive glory, honor, a certificate of excellence/trophy and other special prizes and SWAG.
Each CL will man a separate station and there will be a few surprises along the way.
At the completion of the game, dinner will be served to all participants.
The winning team will receive glory, honor, a certificate of excellence/trophy and other special prizes and SWAG.
at Every Mon and Wed 3:15 PM
BAND OF BROTHERS - LEADERSHIP TRAINING SERIES - Lobby of University House - Check your email on Sunday from BP for study guide and link to the weekly episode. 10 weeks with episode one beginning January 25 and 27.
EVERY THURSDAY 6 PM
FIRESIDE HANG - CHECK OUT OUR NEW FIRE PIT - GRILL SOMETHING YOU BRING (FOR NOW) AND ENJOY S'MORES
Stay tuned for info on the U-House Amazing Race, Outdoor Games, and Stay Calm and Paddle On - this spring!
Cameron Park mountain bike group ride - coming again in November!
UHOUSE and TEXANA!
- Group Ride 2 - Saturday Sept 26 (9AM before Baylor Football)
- If you need a bike - RSVP and I will try and reserve you a bike at Bicycle World - free!
- The ride will take us along the River Trail and up one or two moderate climbs. Easy decents with no jumps yet.
- If there is enough interest we can split off and have a more experienced group on some technical trails then rejoin the rest before lunch.
Every Tuesday at 8PM - "Chalk Talk" with BP
Weekly standing "Chalk Talks" - 8PM every Tuesday - Click on the VLOG button above for topics and Zoom LinkSpecial combined Chalk Talks with Texana -
- Oct 20 - Special Johnny Zombie preview (maps, codes, game play, rules)
- Sept 29 - Dr. Nicole Kenley - Baylor English Dept - Detective Fiction
- Nov 10 - Dr. Lesley McAllister - Baylor School of Music - Wellness, Yoga in the Practice Studio - mental wellness and and toughness before finals
WEDnesday mornings Group Run - 8:30 AM sharp
Meet at the round outdoor fire-pit - Texana and Uhouse
Texana and University House - PreGame Hang - Texana/Uhouse front lawn - Sat September 19th 10AM to Noon
Volleyball, Spike Ball, Corn Hole, Horseshoes and Kona Ice - wake up and come outside and meet everyone! It's BAYLOR GAME DAY VS UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON!!!
Why are you still in bed?
There will also be a Corn Hole Finals round Sat AM -
Why are you still in bed?
There will also be a Corn Hole Finals round Sat AM -
Breakfast with the FIR - weekdays 8AM
I will bring Rudy's, Zacatecas, Lolitas, or Fuzzy's - watch the invite on your door!
Meet the FIR
Chair of Wisdom
On the second floor in the common area directly across from the FIR Board is MY chair of wisdom. This is where I have sat and continue to do so for a moment each day, reading, praying and being quiet. I plan on doing a brief daily writing session and studying in this area each day. This is the first thing I do each day before I walk to the McCrary Music Building to warm up, practice and teach.
I invite each of you to come and sit in this chair - it is now yours - and read a chapter, verse, page of something. The Chair of Wisdom library is to remain in tact and on the shelf. Each of you can sit in the chair or in the area and use this time to develop your "sanctuary" and spark your soul.
Each of these books - some old - some new, have made an impact on me. I will slowly add to the library over the next few years. Some of them are fresh and some of them are annotated. They are not necessarily cogent and they represent a a diversity of thought that may not exist in the academy. The root of these texts is the Bible, to which I still hold to be God's word and infallible.
Chair of Wisdom etiquette:
Once I see several colored tabs in the same book - I will invite those gents to attend a brief 30 minute book dinner/desert/hike discussion. I like talking about what I have read. More importantly, I would like to know what you think. I will always be a student. One of my great mentors once said, "there are no great teachers, only great students."
I will update this page with a photo each time I add a book or two.
I invite each of you to come and sit in this chair - it is now yours - and read a chapter, verse, page of something. The Chair of Wisdom library is to remain in tact and on the shelf. Each of you can sit in the chair or in the area and use this time to develop your "sanctuary" and spark your soul.
Each of these books - some old - some new, have made an impact on me. I will slowly add to the library over the next few years. Some of them are fresh and some of them are annotated. They are not necessarily cogent and they represent a a diversity of thought that may not exist in the academy. The root of these texts is the Bible, to which I still hold to be God's word and infallible.
Chair of Wisdom etiquette:
- Read a chapter or page of something twice a week. If you're serious about it, make it once a day. Morning or evening.
- 10 minutes is all you need to begin developing a brief, daily, session.
- Do not remove or take the books
- Use the colored tabs to mark your place in the book - write your name on the tab
Once I see several colored tabs in the same book - I will invite those gents to attend a brief 30 minute book dinner/desert/hike discussion. I like talking about what I have read. More importantly, I would like to know what you think. I will always be a student. One of my great mentors once said, "there are no great teachers, only great students."
I will update this page with a photo each time I add a book or two.