Diana R. Garland School of Social Work

Extending Baylor University’s year-long focus on civil discourse, 12 Baylor University faculty members have joined together as the first faculty cohort of Bridgebuilding Fellows. Each faculty member serves as a role model and works to equip the campus community to make positive connections with one another across deep divides.

On Aug. 15-16, the faculty Bridgebuilding Fellows completed training using the Bridging the Gap (BTG) curriculum, a grant-funded program through Interfaith America that equips participants with the skills and knowledge to better engage across divisions in polarized contexts. Civil discourse is interwoven into the University’s new strategic plan, Baylor in Deeds, with faculty programs such as bridgebuilding, helping students develop the skills to effectively lead and serve in complex, diverse – and sometimes polarized – environments.

In a world where the power of connection and understanding can transform lives, Cassie Niedhammer shines brightly as a beacon of hope. Recognized as the Clinical Intern of the Year from the Diana R. Garland School of Social Work at Baylor University, Cassie’s journey reflects a profound commitment to helping others, particularly children and families navigating the complexities of grief.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease and other progressive neurocognitive disorders comes with a wide range of challenges, emotions and stressors. Despite those difficult circumstances, an interdisciplinary team of researchers at Baylor University found that family caregivers who recognize and cultivate feelings of gratitude are better able to adjust to their roles with a greater sense of well-being and enhanced coping.

Waco was 1 of 10 U.S. Communities That Received More Than $2.5 Million in Grants for Community-led Sustainability Projects As A Part of The Newest Round of Partners for Places Matching Grants and Has Succeeded in its First Year.

Waco's Sustainable Community and Regenerative Agriculture Project or "S.C.R.A.P." Collective has recently concluded its first year of working to promote sustainability in the Central Texas community. Having received a $150,000 grant from The Funders Network and a matching grant from the Cooper Foundation, the S.C.R.A.P. Collective is growing a healthy, equitable food system in Waco to address issues of food waste, food insecurity, and climate resilience.