Fall Commencement
On Saturday, December 7, East Texas Baptist University celebrated the achievements of 202 graduates at its commencement ceremonies in Baker Chapel of the Rogers Spiritual Life Center. Guided by the University's President, Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, the ceremony marked the conferral of degrees to 140 undergraduate and 62 graduate students. The event was filled with Scripture readings, songs of praise and worship, heartfelt prayers, and blessings bestowed upon the graduates. The December 2024 graduating class marked the largest fall class in University history.
Dr. Blackburn encouraged the graduates and reminded those in attendance of the University's Christ-centered mission.
"Today, we celebrate your academic achievements, spiritual growth, and answered callings to serve," Dr. Blackburn said. "As a Christ-centered university, ETBU has equipped you to become Christian servant leaders, ready to impact the world with the hope, love, and light of Jesus Christ. From this Hill and ETBU, we are sending you out as Kingdom leaders—educated, empowered, and emboldened to influence and impact people. May you carry the torch of faith and transform lives, for the glory of God."
ETBU Participates in Operation
Christmas Child
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East Texas Baptist University participated in its ninth annual Operation Christmas Child, an outreach program organized by Samaritan’s Purse. This ministry involves filling shoeboxes with small toys, school supplies, hygiene products, and other items sent to children worldwide as Christmas gifts and tangible reminders of God’s love for them. This year, ETBU also served as a designated drop-off location, inviting the surrounding community to join in spreading joy and hope.
Speech Language Pathology Virtual
Open House
ETBU Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology is hosting a virtual open house Monday, December 16, from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. CST. Learn how we will be preparing the next generation of speech-language professionals to make a real difference in people's lives. Click here to learn more.
Alumni Spotlight | Jeff Stapleton ('10)
Mr. Jeff Stapleton (’10) completed a Bachelor of Arts in Religion with a concentration in Pastoral Ministry during his time at ETBU and later obtained a Master’s degree in Web Design and Online Communication from the University of Florida. Jeff is married to Sarah, and together they are raising three wonderful children: Colin (17), Carley (14), and Caroline (11).
Jeff shares, "When I think back on my time at ETBU, I think about how I was invested in, how I was equipped for ministry, and how I was sent out with confidence and
support. My time at ETBU taught me so much." Read how faculty, staff, and friends helped shape Jeff Stapleton into the man he is today.
Read Full Spotlight
Good Samaritan Award & ETBU Scholarship Dinner
Mark your calender for Thursday, February 20, 2025, for the 2025 Good Samaritan Award and ETBU Scholarship Dinner. The 2025 Good Samaritan Award will be presented to the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation. The J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation embodies the parable of the Good Samaritan as it provides millions of dollars annually to non-profit organizations in Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri. For more information about sponsorship opportunities or tickets call the University Advancement office at 903-9232071.
Good Samaritan Award & Scholarship Banquet
ETBU in the News
Tigers Making Headlines
Matthews is AVCA Regional Coach of the Year; Three Players Earn AVCA Awards
ETBU head coach Mallory Matthews ('16) was named the American Volleyball Coaches Association Region 10 Coach of the Year. This is the first time ETBU has received the award and is a first for Matthews. She was also the 2024 ASC Coach of the Year. Matthews guided ETBU to 29 wins, back-to-back ASC Tournament championships, a top-10 ranking, and to the second round of the NCAA Division III National Tournament. Earning the award with her is assistant coach Allison Kuster and manager Madi Chandler. Read more
ETBU's Teague School of Nursing Awarded over $333,000 to Address Nursing Shortage
The Teague School of Nursing received grants to address the nationwide critical nursing shortage and enhance nursing education. Grant support will be used to innovate simulation training, support faculty and student retention, enhance student recruitment efforts, and purchase new equipment. Read more.
ETBU Office of Advancement
Dr. Scott Bryant
Vice President for Advancement and Administrative Affairs
903.923.2069 | sbryant@etbu.edu
Scott McCurdy
Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Administrative Affairs
903.923.2830 | smccurdy@etbu.edu
Cari (Walker) Johnson (`94) Director of Alumni Relations
903.923.2043 | cjohnson@etbu.edu
Chad Cox ('11) ('16)
Director of Career Counseling and Placement/Development Officer
903.223.2330 | ccox@etbu.edu
Keli
Sparks Gifts Coordinator
903.923.2071 | ksparks@etbu.edu