BELTON, TX (KWTX) – The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) welcomed the 47th Governor of Texas, Rick Perry, who served as governor from 2000 to 2015, to speak at the university’s 20th annual McLane Lecture Series, the November 6.

Perry spoke at the university’s Mayborn Campus Center located at 900 College Street around 11 a.m. Perry previously spoke at UMHB on the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attack during the university’s Chapel Series.

During his speech, Perry explained how his Christian faith has influenced his life.

“He wants you to live a life that has purpose,” Perry said, linking to the university’s slogan “Live on Purpose.” “Find the place to serve (because) it teaches you to be a determined person.”

Perry spoke about his early life and how his mentors openly proclaimed the gospel.

“The checklist I was given as a kid was the Holy Bible,” Perry said.

Perry then detailed conversations he had with George W. Bush during Bush’s time as governor of Texas, and Perry confirmed that the best job in the world was being able to serve as governor of Texas.

It was during this time that Perry met a Christian prophet who saw a vision of Perry standing at the White House with his grandson, and how he initially misinterpreted the vision while serving as President of the States -United.

The vision proved true, as Perry served as President Donald Trump’s Secretary of Energy during Trump’s first presidency.

“God’s plan is always best,” Perry said. “I couldn’t have done what Trump did.”

Perry was joined by McLane Lecture Series sponsors Elizabeth and Drayton McLane Jr., as well as their son Drayton McLane III. During the conference, UMHB President Randy O’Rear presented the McLanes with honorary degrees in the humanities, which are the highest honor bestowed at UMHB.

The McLane Lecture Series, sponsored by the McLane family, aims to “bring exceptional people to the university to share their experiences and ideas about leadership, government, business and faith,” according to the UMHB. The university hosted Christian evangelist and missionary Franklin Graham for the 2023 conference, and has hosted figures such as Chuck Norris, George W. Bush, George HW Bush and first lady Barbara Bush.

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