Chemistry professor tells students she was once a ‘wandering sheep’

Associate Professor of Chemistry and Physics Dr. Tiffany Hayden spoke about her faith during an Erskine chapel service Feb. 25. She challenged students to find their way back to God when they are lost or wavering.

During her time in college, Hayden placed more emphasis on the college lifestyle than on God, and she failed to connect with a church family along the way. “I quit walking with God because I couldn’t find a ‘people,’” she said.

Her faith continued to diminish when she moved away from Texas after completing her undergraduate degree. She described herself as a “wandering sheep” who had lost her way and needed God to find her.

When she returned to Texas to earn her Ph.D. at Baylor University, she found new friends and a church that showed love to her. “It was there that my faith started its resurrection,” Hayden said.

She advised students who may be struggling to find direction in their faith, “Find the church family that accepts you, sins and all.”

Now married and the mother of a young son, Hayden continues walking in her faith. She prizes the support she is able to give and receive through a women’s group at her church.