Dr. Max Wynn '80
In a world where the concepts of science and faith are viewed at times in contradiction with each other, Dr. Richard “Max” Wynn ’80 believes that science and faith reflect each other. In fact, Dr. Wynn states that “discovering truths through science is like praise and adoration for God.” In a Christian university like McMurry, this philosophy makes the role of science a very important component in the mission of higher education. Dr. Wynn continues, “We can understand something about the nature of God in the discovery of truths about nature, and communicating those truths provides hope for the world we live in.”

The complementary nature between science and faith has always been a part of Dr. Wynn’s life. When facing a decision regarding where to attend college, he recognized two important facets of his life—his faith and his desire to understand the laws of nature. Because of the outstanding reputation of McMurry’s science department, Wynn chose to attend McMurry. “I was looking for a small place because I did not want to be just a number, but I also wanted a place that offered an outstanding education.” Soon after arriving at McMurry, Dr. Wynn learned an important lesson about his professors—one that he has carried with him his entire life. “I learned that my professors at McMurry had a vocation, namely their job, and an avocation, an emphasis on Christian service to those around them.” He believes that the blending of academic emphasis and care and concern for others is what makes McMurry a special place. “We encourage our students to become life-long learners, but at the same time, we instill in them an attitude of Servant Leadership.”

An important aspect of the Shaping the Future Campaign is “Building on Strength in Science and Math.”  The development of a premier science and math facility will position McMurry to answer the need for more graduates in science and math. Dr. Wynn believes in the importance of this facility and its potential for positively impacting the future. “Investing in such an effort will attract more students to the University,” he states, “and those students will be able to contribute to scientific research.” An example that Wynn points to is the research that will help solve diseases like cancer. “A quality science facility becomes pivotal because it provides students the opportunity to perform research that will ultimately help doctors to understand the cause of certain diseases.” He shares his belief that “building such a facility can propel an institution like McMurry.”

When asked what he would say to alumni about the upcoming Campaign, Wynn states, “there is a place for you.”  He encourages all McMurry alumni to remember their experiences as students. “For many of us, who we are and what we have become can be attributed to McMurry,” he states, and he emphasizes the importance of getting involved. “Now we have the opportunity to give back. Collectively, we can do a lot.”  Dr. Wynn reminds everyone that even though we might not be able to give a large amount, participation at all levels is necessary for the success of the Shaping the Future Campaign. He believes that alumni involvement demonstrates a commitment to providing students with access to a quality education, a memorable undergraduate experience and a successful future.