Profiles

Erik Carter, Ph.D., is the Luther Sweet Endowed Chair in Disabilities at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. His research and writing focus on principle-driven and research-based strategies for promoting full participation, relationships, and valued roles for children and adults with developmental disabilities. He serves as executive director of the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities, which aims to promote the thriving of people with disabilities and their families. Carter’s scholarship addresses the spiritual lives and flourishing of people with disabilities and their families, the ministry practices and postures of churches, and faith-based partnerships with disability service systems. At Baylor, he is collaborating to launch a new initiative aimed at advancing empirical and theological scholarship focused on disability and the church. He frequently provides training to pastors, teachers, families, and other community members. Carter has coauthored seven books and more than 300 journal articles, chapters, and other publications. His scholarship and advocacy have  been recognized with awards from All Belong, the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, the Association of University Centers on Disability, the Council for Exceptional Children, and Key Ministry.