“John’s visionary leadership and contagious optimism left a lasting impact on the Ƶcommunity,” said Brandon Huisman, vice president for advancement and marketing. “He brought joy and purpose to his work, and his influence is evident across campus today.”
Ƶ has dedicated a conference room in The Atrium as the John Baas Conference Room, remembering the life and legacy of former Vice President for Advancement John Baas, who passed away from leukemia in 2025.
Baas served Ƶfrom 2005 until his passing, and his leadership helped shepherd years of growth in donor engagement, philanthropic support, and mission-driven advancement. Known for his deep love for the Lord and his passion for advancing God’s Kingdom through Christian higher education, Baas played a key role in shaping Dordt’s culture of generosity and community-building.
“John’s visionary leadership and contagious optimism left a lasting impact on the Ƶcommunity,” said Brandon Huisman, vice president for advancement and marketing. “He brought joy and purpose to his work, and his influence is evident across campus today.”
John and his wife, Beth Baas, have been integral members of the Ƶcommunity for many years. Beth continues to serve as Dordt’s Director of Student Health and Counseling, and together John and Beth Baas has shaped the university in meaningful ways. John often reminded others of the truth of Philippians 1:21: “For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
The newly-named John Baas Conference Room will serve as a meeting space for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. It is intended to be a place for collaboration and connection that reflects Baas’s commitment to serving others and strengthening the Ƶcommunity.
“Recognizing the enduring impact of John and Beth Baas, it is fitting to name this room for John,” said President Erik Hoekstra. “His life and work continue to remind us of what it means to faithfully steward gifts for the glory of God.”
A dedication event for this space and others within The Atrium was held in mid-October during Defender Days.
About Ƶ
As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Ƶ equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Ƶis a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.
Ƶ’s Music Department will present "Christmas at Dordt: The Word Became Flesh" on Saturday, December 6, at 7 p.m. in the B.J. Haan Auditorium. This reimagined Service of Lessons and Carols features Christmas choral and orchestral music enhanced by lighting and narration.
“This campaign broke barriers and fostered dialogue about what it means to honor disability rather than hide it,” she says. “It’s been incredible to see how a message like this can shift perceptions and celebrate the dignity of every person.”
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