Some alumni arrive at McMurry University with a clear roadmap; others, like Rev. Dr. William “Bill” Beachy, seek direction and ultimately find a lifelong calling. From academic setbacks and spiritual awakenings to a distinguished career in ministry, education, and leadership consulting, Bill’s story is one of redemption, discovery, and a steadfast commitment to empowering others.
Originally from Ohio, Bill’s early college journey began at Ohio University. But after two years, he flunked out. A chance opportunity to help a friend’s family move to Abilene, Texas, would unexpectedly reroute his life. Captivated by the city, he returned to Ohio only to tell his family he was moving back to Abilene, where he enrolled in McMurry just two days before classes began.
Though his first academic attempt at McMurry was rocky, his connection to the community deepened. After briefly moving back to Ohio and marrying into a McMurry alumni family, Bill felt called to ministry. His spiritual journey led him to Plainview, to Wayland Baptist University, and then back to Abilene, where he fully recommitted his life to Christ and re-enrolled at McMurry with a new purpose.
Though he was only a year away from completing his business degree, Bill pivoted to music, and despite having no prior background, he fully immersed himself. His determination paid off, earning him the Theory Progress Award and a degree in vocal performance and conducting. He was an active member of both Morning Star and the Chanters, the latter of which would become a meaningful point of connection with his brother Randy in years to come.
Post-graduation, Bill spent several years traveling, doing revivals and music concerts while attending seminary. Life milestones, including the birth of his son and his first pastoral assignment, coincided with this period of spiritual and professional formation.
His pursuit of a Ph.D. took him to Pittsburgh, and though the path was uncertain, no job, no housing, he trusted his calling. A last-minute opportunity to pastor a church in Pittsburgh, coupled with housing, gave him the foundation to complete his degree. Before age 40, he had defended his dissertation and officially became Dr. Beachy.
Following his doctorate, Bill served as Associate Professor of Spiritual Formation and Director of Continuing Education, and finally the Interim Director of the Beeson Center at Asbury Seminary. He later went back as a pastor in the local church serving Jackson and Cincinnati, Ohio, as well as 13 years in Lansing, Michigan. He continued to teach and lead as an adjunct professor until retirement, but retirement didn’t last long. When Ashland Theological Seminary received a $1 million grant, he returned full-time to the classroom to launch “Thriving in Church Ministries,” an initiative offering pastors support in navigating the often-isolating challenges of church leadership.
Even after leaving traditional ministry, Bill’s passion for guiding others remained. He began facilitating CliftonStrengths, Strengths Deployment Inventory, and Emotional Intelligence Quotient assessments for pastors, corporations, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, and manufacturing teams, helping individuals better understand their identities and contributions.
This work laid the foundation for something deeper.
Bill founded The Beachy Group LLC., a consultancy committed to helping leaders and teams thrive. He later brought in his brother, Randy, also a proud McMurry alumnus, to join the mission. Grounded in biblical values like those found in Genesis 1:26, their work emphasizes understanding one’s God-given identity, developing strengths, and fostering resilient, communicative teams.
With their combined backgrounds in ministry, education, marketing, and leadership development, Bill and Randy bring a unique synergy to their work. Together, they equip leaders not only to lead others well but to lead from a place of clarity, authenticity, and purpose.
For students and alumni, Bill offers profound advice:
“Learn yourself – every leader needs to have a deep sense of self-awareness. What do you love to do? Knowing your strengths helps build a great trajectory for your life. Have meaningful conversations and seek to be present. Commit to resilience and perseverance.”
From flunking out of college to earning a Ph.D., from wandering to leading others to clarity, Bill Beachy’s life is a testament to grace, grit, and growth. His journey reminds us that even the most winding paths can lead to incredible purposes, especially when traveled with faith, humility, and heart.
For more information regarding the Beachy Group, visit their page.
Do you or an alum you know have a great post-McMurry story? We’d love to feature YOU! Contact the Alumni Office at alumni@mcm.edu to schedule an interview.