Missouri legislator says online program gave him a firm foundation for public service

Missouri State Representative Dirk Deaton (’17) says that although people like to make a big deal out of the fact that at 25 years old he is one of the youngest elected officials in the history of the state, he views this fact as more of an interesting footnote than a purposeful intention.

In his mind, the foundation that was laid during his time with Liberty helped him to reach this impressive goal.

“Liberty helped me solidify why I believe the things I do and understand the foundation for my beliefs. This allows me to defend my beliefs, and that’s important for what I do as an elected official,” he said. “I think it is not enough to know what you believe, but you should also know why you believe it.”

Deaton earned a bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies. He chose to pursue his degree online because he wanted to remain active in his local community but still receive a strong academic and theological education that wasn’t offered at nearby institutions.

“I was very engaged in community organizations and in the local Republican Party, so I didn’t feel like I could walk away from those involvements,” Deaton said. “Liberty’s online program was great for me in that way because I could get the top-rated education that I was looking for — both spiritually and academically — and remain engaged and active at home.”

For Deaton, Liberty encompassed the mission set forth by its founder, Dr. Jerry Falwell, to Train Champions for Christ.

“Dr. Falwell said in a Commencement ceremony one time that graduates should leave the graduation platform running,” he said. “And that’s what I did — I hit the ground running. I graduated in May 2017, declared my candidacy (for state representative) in October 2017 and, after the primary process, was elected in November 2018.”

Deaton first stepped foot on the Lynchburg, Va., campus for his own graduation in 2017, when he said he was inspired by Commencement speeches from President Donald Trump and Liberty President Jerry Falwell.

Since being elected, Deaton has pointed to a pro-life bill signed by Missouri Gov. Mike Parson in May as one of the biggest accomplishments from his first year in the House. Deaton has also tackled government spending as a member of the House Budget Committee and Fiscal Review.

Martin Luther is quoted as saying that even if he knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, he would still plant his apple tree, and for Rep. Deaton that means never losing hope, especially in a political arena that may look like — or is portrayed as being — without hope.

“I am still very hopeful and believe that hope is never lost,” Deaton said. “I try to take that hope and stand for those I represent — my constituents who are working and being leaders in their communities. God has each of us here for a reason, and hope is never lost.”

Deaton believes his Liberty education equipped him for his calling.

“Liberty gave me the tools and confidence to run for office and be successful in life,” Deaton said. “Not only the academics, but also the spiritual background. Having a great education with spiritual and faith components has made all the difference.”