Batsell Baxter (November 17, 1886 – March 4, 1956) was one of the most important leaders and educators in the Churches of Christ in the first half of the 20th century.

Batsell Baxter
Baxter pictured in Promenade 1939, Pepperdine yearbook
President of Pepperdine University
In office
1937–1939
Preceded byOffice established
Succeeded byHugh M. Tiner
President of Lipscomb University
In office
1932–1934
Preceded byH. Leo Boles
Succeeded byE. H. Ijams
President of Lipscomb University
In office
1943–1946
Preceded byE. H. Ijams
Succeeded byAthens Clay Pullias
Personal details
Born(1886-11-17)November 17, 1886
Sherman, Texas
DiedMarch 4, 1956(1956-03-04) (aged 69)
Nashville, Tennessee

Biography

edit

He received his early education from David Lipscomb and James A. Harding at the Nashville Bible School (now known as Lipscomb University). He also obtained degrees from Abilene Christian College (B.A.), University of Southern California (M.A., Ph.D.), and Vanderbilt University (B.D.).

Baxter served as president of Abilene Christian College (1924-1932), David Lipscomb College (1932-1934, 1943-1946), and George Pepperdine College (1937-1939). These institutions are now called Abilene Christian University, Lipscomb University, and Pepperdine University, respectively. He was also Dean of Cordell Christian College in Oklahoma and Dean of Thorp Spring Christian College (near Fort Worth, Texas). He wrote several books and regularly contributed to the Gospel Advocate, a periodical associated with the Churches of Christ. He also preached for several different Churches of Christ.

Baxter was the father of Batsell Barrett Baxter, who was also a professor and preacher in the Church of Christ. John Baxter, his grandson, and son of Batsell Barrett Baxter, is president of NationsUniversity.

edit