Baylor Connections

Baylor Connections

Fridays at 11:00am

May 30, 2025 was the final airing of Baylor Connections on KWBU. Although we will miss having Derek Smith and so many from the Baylor family in studio, we appreciate the time and conversations that were shared in our studio over the years.

Below you can find archived segments of Baylor Connections.

Baylor Connections will be replaced with the KWBU Friday Forum with the The Waco Bridge. Tune in the for the first episode June 6th at 11am.

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Baylor Connections introduces the Waco community to the people behind Baylor’s teaching, research and distinct role in higher education, and provides additional information and context to issues facing the University and higher education.

Latest Episodes

Baylor Connections - Michael Estepp

Derek Smith

For Baylor students, career success begins when they set foot on campus, with the help of the Baylor University Career Center. Baylor’s placement rate of 91 percent is one of the best in the nation, and its approach is student-centered, walking alongside students and helping them define success. Michael Estepp, Assistant Vice Provost in the Career Center, showcases the approach that helps students successfully pursue their calling.
Baylor Connections - Julie Hoggarth

Derek Smith

Archaeologist and anthropologist Julie Hoggarth heads to Belize next week continue her nationally recognized research on ancient Maya cultures, sharing what their experiences can teach us today.
Baylor Connections - Becky Kennedy

Derek Smith

Soon, hundreds of students will embark on Baylor summer missions trips, spanning the globe to serve others and share the love of Christ. Becky Kennedy, Assistant Dean for Spiritual Life and Missions and Associate Chaplain in Baylor Spiritual Life, shares the impact of discipline-specific mission trips that form students as they serve.
Baylor Connections - Sam Henderson

Derek Smith

Many will recognize Sam Henderson's voice from his role as the announcer of Baylor Commencement exercises, but his impact at Baylor extends far beyond that stage.
Baylor Connections - Global Flourishing Study

Derek Smith

The landmark Global Flourishing Study, one of the most comprehensive studies of human existence ever undertaken and a first-of-its-kind multi-year investigation into human flourishing, recently released key insights from its first wave of data, highlighted by a gathering at Gallup Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Baylor Connections - Dr. Forest Kim

The Robbins Healthcare MBA program in Baylor’s Hankamer School of Business is recognized as a top 20 healthcare management program nationally by U.S. News and World Report, with alumni who lead healthcare organizations from coast to coast. Forest Kim, who serves as program co-director, shares program distinctives and highlights the role alumni play in healthcare innovation and service.
Baylor Connections - Michael Scullin

How does technology impact our brains as we age? Many worry that reliance on digital devices may lead to a form of “digital dementia,” but a recent study found otherwise. Michael Scullin, associate professor of psychology and neuroscience, examines how the challenges of technology can be beneficial to cognitive function as we age, and shares insights for healthy tech use.
Baylor Connections - Black Gospel Archive

Derek Smith

Baylor’s Black Gospel Archive collects, preserves and promotes Black Gospel music. Many pieces, once in danger of being lost forever, have been saved through that work. This year, the Black Gospel Archive will be expanding thanks to a meaningful grant that will showcase the music in new ways.
Baylor Connections - Larry Lyon and James Howard

Derek Smith

Graduate Student Appreciation Week is an annual celebration of the contributions of graduate students across the nation. At Baylor, nearly 6,000 graduate students elevate the University through research, teaching and more. Graduate School Dean Larry Lyon and Graduate Student Association President James Howard share perspectives on graduate education at Baylor and highlight what makes graduate students distinct.
Baylor Connections - Myles Olenski and Anna Webb

Derek Smith

For many Baylor students, Monday nights at 9pm represent an opportunity to join in worship at a weekly service held by Vertical Ministries. This year, Vertical Ministries celebrates its 15th anniversary. Executive Director Myles Olenski and Associate Director Anna Webb share Vertical’s story, explain why Vertical stays focused on Monday services and discuss the organization’s purpose in serving Baylor students.