Hearn Series Brings Aaron Williams to Campus

From Monday through Wednesday of last week, the Dunn Center for Christian Music Studies welcomed Aaron Williams on campus as the fall 2026 Hearn Innovators Series guest artist. A renowned worship leader, singer, and songwriter, Aaron offered mentorship, guidance, encouragement, and inspiration through his participation in classes, meals with students, and Monday evening’s Church Music Forum meeting. 

M.M./M.Div student Hannah Rabb states that she “appreciated how pastoral Aaron was in all his conversations and lectures, and I especially enjoyed hearing about his unique journey through ministry.” Hannah had the opportunity to engage firsthand in many of Aaron’s conversations with students and faculty as she attended and photographed multiple of his class sessions. The classes he attended and helped lead were Instrumental Music in the Church, Worship in the Church, Engaging with Music, and rehearsal with the 40 Collective, in which he got to witness how Baylor students are growing in their musical leadership and education. 

M.M./M.Div student Trenton West agreed that “it was encouraging to hear about somebody who had gone through the process of songwriting talking about what it took to get there.” Trenton expressed how not many people are open to talking through the troubles that arise in the writing process, and so he appreciated Aaron’s honesty as he opened up about his personal journey. Although Aaron is most widely recognized for his song “Abide,” he also shared with Church Music students at the forum the ups and downs of many of his other works. Students were encouraged and inspired by Aaron’s authenticity and personal dedication to his work. 

In between attending classes, lectures, and rehearsals, Aaron also participated in meal and coffee meetings with Church Music students throughout the week. This gave students the unique opportunity to engage in more personal conversation with Aaron and hear more about his musical journey and experience. In these meetings, he was able to offer advice, encouragement, and mentorship for questions about entering the music ministry field and how to proceed as Christian songwriters. By Aaron’s departure on Wednesday, the Dunn Center and greater Baylor community left with fresh inspiration from and appreciation for his Godly ministry and talent!

View a short clip from last week's Devotional Musicianship Chapel.