Hilltop Magazine | 2026 Issue 1

PROVERBS 3:5-6

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

LIFE ON THE HILL

TIGER CAMP HYPE

Students cheered for their newfound friends and teammates as they performed a choreographed dance, an annual Tiger Camp tradition. The event is part of the freshman Tiger Camp programming.

EDITOR IN CHIEF/PHOTOGRAPHER/WRITER

Sara Braun

President for Communication and Strategic Initiatives MANAGING EDITOR/DESIGNER/PHOTOGRAPHER Alyssa Rummel

and Communication

ETBU

WRITERS

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In every season of its history, East Texas Baptist University has remained steadfast in its Christcentered mission: to educate students by integrating biblical faith and learning, developing the whole person in mind, body, and soul through community engagement, and preparing graduates to serve as Christian servant leaders in their callings to God and humanity. The pages that follow are more than stories; they are a reflection of that mission lived out in real and meaningful ways.

This issue of Hilltop captures a significant moment in the life of the University, highlighted by the celebration of ETBU’s first doctoral graduates this past December. The milestone for B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at ETBU represents not only academic achievement but also the University’s continued commitment to equipping leaders for service around the world. Among those graduates is Dr. Arcadis Solano Silvera, whose story is featured on the cover. Having the opportunity to meet and interview him, I was humbled by both the depth of his journey and the strength of his faith.

From his early ministry in Cuba to his pursuit of theological education across multiple languages and countries, Dr. Silvera’s path was marked by perseverance and unwavering trust in God. His journey included significant challenges, including limited resources, political pressure, and ultimately fleeing his home country to protect his family. Yet, through every obstacle, he remained committed to his calling. His doctoral degree is more than a personal accomplishment; it is a testimony to God’s provision and a reflection of his desire to equip others for ministry around the world. His life embodies what it means to be a Christian servant leader.

That same spirit can be found throughout this issue. In athletics, readers will find stories of excellence, resilience, and character. ETBU Volleyball’s historic season stands as a testament to teamwork and dedication, while senior Graycee Mosley exemplifies success both in the classroom and on the court. We also share the powerful story of senior football player Connor Gillespie, whose return to the field after battling cancer reminds us of the strength found in hope and unwavering trust in the Lord.

Beyond individual achievements, this issue highlights the University’s ongoing commitment to student success. The renovation of Jarrett Library has transformed it into a dynamic Learning Center that supports collaboration, innovation, and academic growth, providing resources that help students thrive. These enhancements not only improve academic outcomes but also foster a sense of community where students are supported in every aspect of their development.

We also revisit a story that began in a time of global uncertainty. In 2022, ETBU welcomed students from Ukraine seeking safety and opportunity amid war. In this issue, we celebrate the graduation of Sofia Vovk and Viktoriia “Vika” Kozachok in December 2025.

Together, these stories reflect the heart of East Texas Baptist University. They remind us that the mission is not just something we say, it is something we live. As you read, my hope is that you are encouraged by the ways God is working through the ETBU community and inspired by the lives being shaped for His purpose.

Thank you for being part of the ETBU story.

SARA BRAUN, VICE PRESIDENT FOR COMMUNICATION AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

ETBU LAUNCHES INTO ACADEMIC YEAR WITH CONVOCATION

Captain Barry E. “Butch” Wilmore was on his third spacewalk and his fifth double-check of his local tether when he saw his reflection in the International Space Station radiator. There he was in his space suit, the black vacuum of space around him and the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean far below him, doing something nobody else in the universe was doing in that moment. He paused to take it all in and raised his visor to see his own eyes in the radiator’s reflection. “Lord, how did I get here?” he asked himself. In this special, glorious, worshipful moment in such a unique place, Wilmore couldn’t help but give God the glory for every bit of it.

East Texas Baptist University held its annual Convocation Chapel service on September 10, welcoming students, faculty, and staff into Baker Chapel for a time of worship, prayer, and commissioning to officially launch the 2025-2026 academic year. Retired U.S. Navy Captain and retired NASA

Astronaut

Captain Barry E. “Butch” Wilmore delivered the keynote address to the campus community and friends of the University.

“This morning, we share our gratitude for one of America’s patriots and heroes in retired NASA Astronaut and United States Navy Pilot, Captain Barry E. “Butch” Wilmore,” President J. Blair Blackburn said. “We are honored today to welcome Captain Wilmore and his wife, Deanna, as he shares his testimony of faith and journey in life. Captain Wilmore is a man of profound Christian character, valiant and courageous service, and steadfast leadership. We are so happy to have the Wilmore’s daughter, Daryn, as an ETBU Tiger student and leader among our campus community. Captain Wilmore often speaks how his strength comes from His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Captain Willmore’s life reflects the faithfulness of leading with integrity at home, in the field of battle, and in the exploration of space. As our nation approaches the 250th Anniversary of its founding, the sacrificial service of Captain Wilmore stands

as a powerful reflection of the values and vision that have shaped America’s enduring legacy of freedom and liberty.”

Captain Wilmore is one of only two NASA Astronauts in the history of human spaceflight to fly aboard five different spacecraft (Space Shuttle, Soyuz, International Space Station, Boeing Starliner, SpaceX Dragon). Wilmore spent over 31 hours outside the International Space Station on his five spacewalks and a total of 464 days in space. He and his wife, Deanna, have two daughters, Daryn and Logan. Over the past decade, Wilmore has made numerous trips to Central and South America on mission trips spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ in cities, rural areas, prisons, and in villages along the Amazon River.

“The world wants to say you’re a bunch of random molecules that came together by chance,” Captain Wilmore said.

“That’s what the world tells you. But this Book [Bible] says you are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of the Almighty God. This Book is true. This Book is all sufficient, and it leads you to the path of righteousness. You can believe it.”

MISS ETBU MACKENZIE LAWRENCE

When Mackenzie Lawrence was crowned Miss ETBU, the room buzzed with excitement as a crown was placed on her head, flowers in her hands, and cameras flashing from every direction. With every passing moment, her anxieties and feelings of inadequacy washed away, and a peace came over her. Lawrence looked into the crowd and saw family and friends gathered to congratulate her on this great achievement. She joyfully waded through the community she had built over her time at ETBU and finally reached her proud parents. In a moment she’ll never forget, she tearfully embraced her father, whispering, “I did it, Dad! I did it!”

East Texas Baptist University senior nursing major Mackenzie Lawrence was crowned the 69th Miss ETBU on September 27 in Baker Chapel at the Rogers Spiritual Life Center. One of the University’s oldest and most cherished traditions, the Miss ETBU Pageant highlights students who exemplify Christian character, poise, and scholarship. The winner serves as an ambassador for ETBU, representing the University both on campus and in the community.

“To see the progression of how far I have come and also being able to tell my story on stage meant so much to me,” Lawrence said. “I felt like in that moment the Lord had molded me, and now He was finally presenting the piece of the project that He was molding.”

During her time at ETBU, the Sour Lake, Texas, native has served as a small group Bible study leader and Resident Assistant in Steve and Penny Carlile Hall. She is also active in Student Foundation, Sisterhood Women’s Ministry, and the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. At Tiger Camp, ETBU’s freshman and transfer student welcome week, Lawrence has served as a group leader and in 2025, she was the co-coordinator. She has also represented the University at the Christian Association of Student Leaders Conference. In fall 2025, Lawrence received the PACCAR Scholarship, an honor she earned for

her outstanding campus leadership and exceptional academic achievement.

“I hope that one thing that I have shown during this process is that Miss ETBU can just be an ordinary girl,” Lawrence said. “I want people to look at me and think that Mackenzie was an ordinary girl. There was nothing super special about Mackenzie. She didn’t have this specific look. But the Lord was able to use her where she was in that moment. I hope that I am able to go into the community and show people that you do not have to be a certain type of person to get into ETBU. When it is in the Lord’s hands, you are able to do what He wants you to do.”

Her ministry and service extend beyond campus. Lawrence has led junior high girls on Wednesday nights at Mobberly Baptist Church in Longview, participated in the GENERATE mission trip, and volunteered in the Marshall community. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career as a pediatric cardiac nurse at Texas Children’s Hospital while continuing her passion for ministry by investing in the lives of junior high students at Grace Fellowship Church in Katy, Texas. However, she mentioned how God has laid the career of a parish nurse on her heart lately.

“I have always felt a calling to care for people at the lowest points in their lives and to spread the love of Jesus to them,” Lawrence said. “When my dad was in the hospital for heart problems, the nurses were just so joyful. They made us forget that we were in a hospital. That is what I want to do for patients and for people, to be that light.”

Junior elementary education major Claire Sherwood was named First Runner-Up and Miss Congeniality, and sophomore nursing major Kaylee Rabb was selected as Audience Favorite. This was Lawrence’s second year participating in Miss ETBU, and she mentioned the friendships and community as one of her favorite aspects of both the pageant and her time at ETBU.

“Miss ETBU is just such an amazing thing to be a part of, an amazing outreach point to connect with people,”

Lawrence said. “I built connections with people that I never would have ever met because of the different majors and different sports. The Lord has taught me so much through the pagent participants and shown me how to be a better woman in Christ, a better friend, and a better student. The friendships that I have accumulated and the people who have mentored me have been truly a blessing. That strong Christian community at ETBU is something I have always prayed for, and now I really see the fruits of those prayers.”

NEW WILLIAM B. DEAN LANGUAGE AND LITERACY CENTER OPENS AT ETBU’S SYNERGY PARK

East Texas Baptist University celebrated the grand opening of the William B. Dean, M.D. Center for Language and Literacy Development with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Synergy Park in downtown Marshall. ETBU faculty, staff, students, and community members gathered to dedicate the new clinic, which began serving clients on August 25.

The William B. Dean Center for Language and Literacy Development offers no-cost evaluation and treatment services to individuals of all ages with communication, speech, language, literacy, and cognitive challenges. Appointments will be available Monday through Thursday afternoons and Friday mornings at Synergy Park, 100 N. Bolivar Street, Suite 302.

Made possible through a $500,000 grant from the Dean Foundation, the Center honors the legacy of the late Dr. William B. Dean, a pioneer in the treatment of learning differences and a passionate advocate for children with dyslexia. Dr. Dean devoted his life to removing barriers to learning, and the Dean Center continues his mission by expanding access to free clinical treatment while also equipping the next generation of speech-language pathologists.

By providing both accessible community care and hands-on professional training, the William B. Dean Center for Language and Literacy Development embodies ETBU’s mission of preparing graduates to serve as Christian servant leaders who make a lasting impact in their communities.

ETBU NURSING STUDENTS BLESSED BY POLLY CARGILL NURSING SCHOLARSHIP

ETBU honored students from the Teague School of Nursing with the Polly Cargill Nursing Scholarship, generously provided by the Cargill family in partnership with ETBU. A total of 27 local students were recognized during a special reception, with 21 recipients representing ETBU’s nursing program.

The Cargill brothers, Jack and Jerry, created the Polly Cargill Nursing Scholarship in memory of their mother, Polly, whose exceptional care by nurses at Good Shepherd Marshall Hospital left a lasting impression. The scholarship aims to empower students in East Texas to become skilled, compassionate nurses while honoring Polly Cargill’s legacy.

“Our mom got the best care she’s ever gotten anywhere in the country, right here in Marshall, Texas,” Jerry Cargill said. “What they did for us and our mom was spectacular. So, thank you all for what you’ve done. Thank you for what you will do. Thanks for letting us just share a little bit of our mother with you.”

ETBU nursing students Seth Bright, Grecia Climaco, Baylie Colston, Ruth Cooper, Alyssa Ehler, Bryanne Izaguirre, Sarah Jones, Jessica Kuhlmann, Julia Lamb, Riley Loudermilk, Abigail Lucas, Melissa Martinez-Chavez, Amber McCarthy, Abryana Odom, Selah Tenbrink, Elizabeth Watkins, Hannah Wrinkle, Kennedy Wiley, Ashlyn Wynne,

ETBU hosted the third annual Lyceum, a forum for Christian thinkers, writers, and scholars in the Ornelas Student Center at the end of September. This free, public event, organized by the School of Christian Studies and Humanities, welcomed attendees to engage in a thought-provoking evening centered on the intersection of faith and scholarship. ETBU’s Lyceum was inspired by Aristotle’s school, which he founded

Elizabeth Wynne, Eliana Zepeda, were each awarded a Polly Cargill nursing scholarship. Nursing students from the University of Texas Tyler, Tyler Junior College, Panola College, and Kilgore College also received scholarships.

“It was truly an honor to receive a scholarship in memory of someone who received such exceptional healthcare from East Texas nurses,” nursing graduate Baylie Colston said. “It definitely encouraged me to continue out my last semester with excellence and gave me more fervor to serve my patients well. Nursing is not just a job, it is truly a calling that the Lord has placed on my life.”

THIRD ANNUAL ETBU LYCEUM BRINGS CHRISTIAN THINKERS TOGETHER

in 335 B.C. as a place for scholars and students to work together to seek out new understanding of the world around them. The event featured retired pastor, campus minister, and professor Dr. Gerald L. Stevens, who invested 34 years of his ministry teaching New Testament and Greek at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Since his retirement in 2022, he has taught as Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Greek at University of Holy Cross and at Xavier University of

Louisiana in New Orleans. Dr. Stevens shared a presentation titled “The Apocalypse Tapestry and the Tapestry of our Lives: Lessons in Worldview.”

“The cross is how God conquers evil in the world forever,” Dr. Stevens said. “What is the implication for living in revelation today? True Christian witness is a commitment to preach the Gospel so faithfully that your life takes on the shape of a cross.”

By bringing distinguished voices like Dr. Stevens to campus, the University hopes to inspire students and faculty to think deeply about the role of faith in their daily lives and careers.

B. H. CARROLL THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY RECEIVES FIRST ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

BH. Carroll Theological Seminary at East Texas Baptist University received its first endowed scholarship through a generous estate gift from longtime Texas Baptist pastor, educator, and friend of the seminary, Dr. Jimmie Nelson. The Dr. Jimmie Nelson Endowed Scholarship will support students enrolled in Carroll’s Ph.D. program, continuing Dr. Nelson’s lifelong investment in ministerial education.

Dr. Nelson, remembered widely for his decades of pastoral leadership, teaching ministry, and dedication to theological preparation, served Texas

Baptist churches for more than 60 years. He pastored congregations across the state, taught future ministers, and devoted his life to strengthening the Church through faithful preaching and mentoring. His influence extended into the early formation of B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary, where he played a vital role as an instructor, supporter, and ambassador for the seminary’s mission.

“Jimmie Nelson was a servant of the Lord who was a supporter and encourager of B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary from its early days,” B. H. Carroll Dean Dr. Gene Wilkes said. “Dr. Nelson taught at B. H. Carroll, promoted the school among his friends and network of ministers, and supported the mission of Carroll through his faithful

BH. Carroll Theological Seminary at ETBU welcomed renowned theologian, historian, and author Dr. Douglas Sweeney as the keynote speaker for the Frank W. and Pauline Patterson Lecture Series. Dr. Sweeney is the Beeson Divinity School Dean at Samford

University. Carroll Seminary’s Fall 2025 Colloquy was held November 17-18 at First Baptist Church, Arlington, Texas.

This semester’s theme, “The Evangelical Supernatural in Early Modern Europe and Today,” guided participants through a historical and theological

giving and prayers. Dr. Nelson was one of the early pioneers of B. H. Carroll who the Lord used to establish a seminary for the next generation of church leaders. His smile and personality filled every room he entered. I am blessed to have known and served with him. His legacy of teaching, service to the church, and friendships will be felt for decades to come.”

As the first endowed scholarship in the seminary’s history, Dr. Nelson’s planned gift marks a historic moment for B. H. Carroll.

“The first endowed scholarship is a milestone moment for B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at East Texas Baptist University,” President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn said. “While many faithful supporters have provided scholarship funds for students throughout the history of B. H. Carroll, Dr. Nelson’s foresight to establish an endowed scholarship in his planned giving will provide continuous provision of student scholarships.”

FALL COLLOQUY FEATURES DR. DOUGLAS SWEENEY

examination of how early evangelical movements understood the active, miraculous work of God. The two-day event united scholars, pastors, ministry leaders, faculty, staff, and students for focused study and theological discussion.

ETBU REPORTS RESULTS OF TEXAS BAPTIST CHRISTIAN LIFE COMMISSION GRANT TO SUPPORT MISSION MARSHALL

In November, East Texas Baptist University was awarded a $5,000 Shutdown Relief Grant from the Texas Hunger Offering and the Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission to support community members experiencing financial hardship. ETBU designated the full grant award to Mission Marshall, a local nonprofit ministry dedicated to addressing food insecurity and meeting essential needs in the Marshall community. Mission Marshall serves thousands of individuals each year through its food pantry, mobile outreach, and community assistance programs.

The Shutdown Relief Grant was created through the Texas Hunger Offering to help Texas Baptists ministries respond to challenges facing families who may have experienced interruptions in government pay or benefits. This funding expanded Mission Marshall’s capacity to meet rising needs and continue offering Christ-centered care during times of financial uncertainty. The ministry was able to provide vital assistance during the fourth quarter 2025 federal government shutdown, including food supplies, prepared meals, grocery and fuel gift cards, hygiene products, and limited utility support.

“ETBU is grateful to Texas Baptists and the Christian Life Commission for their generous grant support that allows us to partner with Mission Marshall in serving our neighbors with Christ-like compassion,” ETBU President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn said. “This grant will extend hope in a tangible way, and we are honored to stand alongside a ministry that faithfully meets the essential needs of our community.”

The Hunger Offering Grant to Mission Marshall served 562 people, with 232 being children and senior citizens, and 280 households. With the funds, Mission Marshall also distributed 1,956 pairs of socks, 300 hygiene kits, and 908 Christmas food boxes in addition to their regular pantry service.

ETBU students can be found serving at Mission Marshall throughout the year, volunteering on a monthly basis through the University’s service programs, student organizations, and athletic teams. These ongoing efforts allow students to live out their faith in practical ways: stocking shelves, distributing food, organizing donations, and engaging directly with families in need. Through collaborative efforts with Mission Marshall and other area organizations, ETBU strives to support families across Harrison County.

SENIORS RECEIVE DR. BOB AND GAYLE RILEY SERVANT LEADERSHIP AWARD

ETBU seniors, Jamie Scott and Charles Guillot, received the 2025 Dr. Bob and Gayle Riley Servant Leadership Awards during a special chapel service in October. Presented by ETBU President Emeritus Bob Riley and his wife, Gayle, the award recognizes upperclassmen who exemplify Christcentered servant leadership. Each recipient of the award receives a replica of Max Greiner’s “Divine Servant” statue, a symbol of humility and service.

Scott, a senior majoring in psychology, has spent her time at ETBU as a Women’s Ministry small group leader, Resident Assistant, Tiger Twirler, student worker in the Office of Student Engagement, Thrive mentor, and volunteer with the Thrive! Kids Program at Mobberly Baptist Church in Longview.

Guillot, a senior majoring in university studies, has spent his time at ETBU as a member of the Tiger Band and Woodwind Ensemble, Track student-athlete, Resident Assistant, Intramural student coordinator, Student Engagement and Student Life student worker, and member of Student Government Association and Student Foundation.

Experience life on the Hill with a look back at the Fall 2025 semester.

Evidence of His Faithfulness

SOFIA AND VIKA’S LIFE-CHANGING SEASON OF FRIENDSHIP AND GROWTH AT ETBU

In December 2025, the Rogers Spiritual Life Center was full of excitement and anticipation. As “To God Be the Glory” played on the organ, students filed into Baker Chapel, buzzing with family, friends, faculty, and staff, ready to celebrate commencement. For seniors Sofia Vovk and Viktoriia “Vika” Kozachok, who arrived on the Hill from Ukraine three and a half years ago, the moment was bittersweet. The milestone was a reminder that some of their loved ones were far away, but gratitude welled up inside them as they peered into the crowd

to see countless friends and mentors there to celebrate the joy, resilience, and experiences that had shaped their journey at ETBU. Graduation day was a culmination of God’s faithfulness, the evidence of His work in their lives, His fulfilled promises, and opened doors.

When news of Ukraine’s invasion by Russian President Vladimir Putin broke in February 2022, East Texas Baptist University leadership began planning and strategizing how to use the University’s resources for Ukrainian citizens impacted by the war. Out of

this planning arose the opportunity for female Ukrainian high school seniors and college students to evade the dangers of war and pursue higher education in the safety of the Pineywoods of East Texas with the caring support of the ETBU Family. For Sofia and Vika, this journey led to graduation in December 2025, transforming a time of crisis into a story of endurance and belonging. No matter where life takes them next, ETBU will always be their Home on the Hill.

“It was definitely a mix of excitement and bitterness—knowing that my

parents could not be there with me to celebrate this moment was difficult,” Sofia said. “But I wasn’t truly alone. I was still surrounded by people who helped and supported me throughout my whole college journey: faculty, staff, fellow students, and my host family, who celebrated me as their own.”

After entering a contest for Ukrainian high school students, Sofia won and received the opportunity to finish her high school education in the United States as a foreign exchange student. During that same year, the Russian

military invaded her home country. Because of the dangers present in the country, Sofia’s family decided it was best that she not return to Ukraine for the time being. Michael (’85) and Becky (Rogers) (’83) Cook, members of Sofia’s extended host family, happened to be ETBU alumni and suggested a visit to campus upon learning about the Ukrainian student scholarship opportunity. After her campus tour in July, Sofia decided to make the Hill her new home. Studying as an international student in the U.S. often comes with

hoops to jump through, hurdles to cross, and immigration paperwork to complete, which turned out to be the case for Sofia. After working through the requirements, she received her admittance into ETBU just in the nick of time.

Sofia graduated Magna Cum Laude from ETBU with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management/Marketing with a minor in Political Science. As soon as Sofia set foot on campus, she immersed herself in the student engagement activities. She was involved in Student Government Association

(SGA), serving as vice president for two years and president in her last semester. In addition to her involvement with SGA, she participated in Alpha Lambda Delta honor society, Titus discipleship groups, and any Student Life event she could attend. Sofia said that she didn’t have much trouble adapting to the culture, which she attributes to God working in her heart and to the similarities between Ukraine and the Southern U.S.

“The Southern U.S. has a lot of similarities with Ukrainian mentality,” Sofia said. “I remember when I first moved here, I would say that I feel like Ukraine and America are the same text, but a little different font. The biggest difference is the food, and people here are a little bit more talkative and friendlier to strangers. But other than that, I was blessed with being pretty adaptable.”

When asked about her favorite memories from ETBU, Sofia talked about her walks with Vika around Kenny Ponder Park on campus. They would walk and talk about their experiences, imagine their futures, and plan their lives post-graduation. Sofia said that God taught her a lot during these walks and her three and a half years at ETBU, particularly the practices of joy, peace, and patience.

“I did a panel for Chapel talking about joy,” Sofia said. “And honestly, preparing for the panel itself made me learn more about joy and practicing it more in my life. Just finding joy as a constant, despite going through challenges in your life, you can still be joyful. Happiness or sadness, they’re very temporary emotions, but enjoying the Lord and knowing that you will have everlasting life with Him is joy.”

“The most amazing thing about the ETBU experience, and Vika and I being the only two ETBU Ukrainian students, was seeing us grow from two completely different personalities with our own issues and our own flaws into adults. We were like water and fire, but I adopted some of her qualities, and she adopted some of mine.”

-Sofia Vovk

school. She said that she’d love to stay in the South, but feels burdened by the number of people in the North who have not heard the Gospel of Jesus.

Looking toward the future, Sofia is taking a gap year working as a bank teller in Longview before attending law

“It’s just something I keep on praying about, and we’ll see where God takes me with that,” Sofia said. “At the end of the day, I just want to practice law, help people, and glorify Jesus through it. Maybe even bring some people closer to Him through it, too.”

Vika Kozachok’s journey looked quite different from Sofia’s; as she was residing in Ukraine when tragedy struck her country. Vika’s family sought shelter in a dark basement with the windows completely covered for extra protection. There they waited and tried to listen for any movement outside, despite not being able to see what was unfolding beyond the walls of their home from the Russian bombing of her hometown. After moving cities and fleeing danger, Vika’s mother came across a flyer for East Texas

Baptist University’s scholarship program for Ukrainian students. She shared the opportunity with Vika, who was at first hesitant and not interested in attending school in the U.S. due to the language barrier. However, she felt God leading her to faithfully take the steps to get her student visa. She studied for and passed the English language exam but faced a series of complications and roadblocks in the visa process while in Chicago with her uncle. Every step of the way, God provided a path of miracles for her to walk through. Just two days before the fall semester began, Vika received her visa and journeyed to Texas, arriving on the day before her first class at ETBU.

For Vika, transitioning to an American lifestyle came with more challenges. Because she wasn’t used to hearing so much English every day, she felt overwhelmed, exhausted, and homesick. Many days were filled with tears as she wondered why God led her to East Texas when all of her family was far away in Illinois and Ukraine. The Lord put understanding professors, new friends, and her international advisor in her path, and she hit her stride, adjusting to new experiences.

“Dr. Lisa Seeley always helped me,” Vika said. “She would drive me to her church, and I always would get lunch with her and her husband afterward. She would drive me to Walmart when needed. She would help me with literally every little thing. I was in her office, if not every day, then every other day. She just helped me transition so well.”

After taking a communication class at ETBU, Vika realized that she wanted to major in mass communication and minor in public relations. The transition into this field was made all the better because of the amazing professors who invested in Vika throughout her time at ETBU.

“Sara Braun, Klaire Smith, Dr. Kate Mead, they all just showed me how to be a good scholar, how to be a good Christian, how to be friends with your community, and how to pour back into it,” Vika said. “Truly and honestly, God shaped me in so many different ways through them.”

Wanting to gain experience in the field she was majoring in, Vika got a student worker job as a photographer and videographer for ETBU Athletic

Communications. Her college experience was marked by her work with Tiger Athletics—any time there was a game, you were sure to see Vika on the sideline taking photos and shooting video to promote the ETBU Tigers.

“A lot of my favorite ETBU memories are centered around Tiger Athletics,” Vika said. “The 2024 Softball National Championship and the 2025 season with ETBU Volleyball were amazing. I just got to know so many people and understand

how different teams work. Just getting to meet new people and make good friendships, almost every day I would wake up and be like, ‘There’s no way this is my life. This is so cool.’”

Vika graduated Summa Cum Laude from ETBU with a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication with a minor in Public Relations and moved back to Illinois to be closer to family. She currently volunteers on the media team and youth ministry at Christian Worship Center Church in Lombard, Illinois, and plans to eventually attend graduate school.

“I know that God will provide because every time I plan something, He always has something so much greater and so much better for me,” Vika said. “That’s basically the rest of my future. I know God will take care of me. I know that God will provide, and that’s all I need to know.”

Both Vika and Sofia spoke highly of each other, calling each other their “best friend” and their “home away from home.” They bonded over the fact that they

were Ukrainians in East Texas while their homes and families were far away, facing the realities of war.

“We just had to navigate through all these emotions of guilt, fear, anxiety, grief, and still go to our classes,” Sofia said. “I think our being together helped us to go through that and learn. Honestly, the most amazing thing about the ETBU experience, and Vika and I being the only two ETBU Ukrainian students, was seeing us grow from two completely different personalities with our own issues and our own flaws into adults. We were like water and fire, but I adopted some of her qualities, and she adopted some of mine.”

“It is really surreal to live and to have a family in Ukraine,” Vika said. “They tell me, ‘I haven’t slept the whole night because of the drones, or the rockets, or the air defense systems. Every night is a fight for life.’ It just reminds you that God is good in all things, and you have to continue to pray, and you have to continue to get to know Him. This world is not fair, but there is a fair God who will take care of it.”

Vika and Sofia continue to commend ETBU for how the campus community has impacted their lives and for how thankful they are to have attended the University.

“I’m just really thankful for this opportunity to be an ETBU Tiger,” Sofia said. “It taught me a lot and made me a better person. And at the end of the day, just praise the Lord for everything He has done for the school. Because watching this place change from my freshman year to what it is now, just praise the Lord. It would not be possible without Him. What He did in my life and in the lives of people around me, just seeing God work in this specific place, was an amazing experience.”

“I think about those three and a half years, and I just loved every moment of it,” Vika said. “If I could relive it, I would love to. God just blessed me in so many ways, and He showed Himself in so many ways. At ETBU, I had to go through a lot of different experiences, and God showed up in every one of them and showed me how He is a good friend, a good Father, and that He loves me. He wants to support me, and there’s nothing I can do apart from Him.”

On to the Next Chapter

FALL 2025 COMMENCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS

With their final semester behind them, a new class of East Texas Baptist University graduates eagerly awaited their moment to cross the stage and step into the long-awaited new chapter unfolding before them.

On December 6, ETBU celebrated the achievements of 177 graduates at its commencement ceremonies in Baker Chapel of the Rogers Spiritual Life Center. Guided by University President, Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, the ceremony marked the conferral of degrees to 113 undergraduates, 62 master’s graduates, and two doctoral graduates.

“To our graduates, the Class of 2025, congratulations on earning your bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees,” Dr. Blackburn said. “We praise God for your remarkable achievements throughout this journey of discovery, growth, and learning. Today is a celebration of academic accomplishment, spiritual formation, and the pursuit of God’s calling, today and for all the days ahead.”

Fall 2025’s Commencement marked a historic milestone for ETBU as the institution conferred its first doctoral degrees in partnership with B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary. ETBU also celebrated the inaugural graduates of the MavPATH Program, a collaboration with Marshall Independent School District designed to help address the growing need for qualified teachers. Established in 2023, the program provides selected MISD paraprofessionals the opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

“The degrees conferred to our two MavPATH students will not just transform individual lives,” Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Thomas Sanders said. “They will transform classrooms, schools, and entire communities. We are so blessed to be a part of this program.”

U.S. Senator for Texas John Cornyn delivered the commencement address during both ceremonies. Senator Cornyn was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2002 and most recently re-elected in 2020. A native of San Antonio, he has served in public office for nearly four decades, including as a district judge, a

justice of the Texas Supreme Court, and Texas Attorney General.

In the U.S. Senate, Senator Cornyn serves on the Finance, Judiciary, Intelligence, Foreign Relations, and Budget Committees, contributing to legislation on national defense, immigration, economic policy, and other key issues. From 2013 to 2018, he served as the Senate Republican Whip. He is also involved in efforts related to military personnel, veterans, and their families, as well as matters affecting the state’s economic and policy interests.

Highlighting the significance of Senator Cornyn’s presence, ETBU Board of Trustees Member Dr. E. Leon Carter (’80) introduced him by saying, “Senator Cornyn is a man of deep faith, conviction,

and courage. He is a leader of honor, duty, and integrity. He puts God first, family second, and his state and constituents third—exactly how it should be.”

In his commencement address to the Class of 2025, U.S. Senator John Cornyn encouraged graduates to embrace their faith, trust God’s guidance, and remain committed to a life of service. Drawing from personal stories, national history, and Scripture, Senator Cornyn emphasized the importance of resilience, gratitude, and courage in a world that often feels uncertain. He reminded students that God’s plans may lead in unexpected directions but will always provide purpose and peace for those willing to follow.

“Prepare to be surprised by what God has in store for you,” Senator Cornyn said. It’s a little unnerving at first to realize you are not the master of your own destiny. But Scripture says: there is a peace that passes understanding in prayer, trust, and knowing you can rely on Him.”

Each semester, President Blackburn presents an award to a graduate who represents a Christian leader, scholar, and servant within the campus and local community.

Baylie Colston, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate, was honored with the President’s Award for the Fall 2025 graduating class at East Texas Baptist

University. A lifelong Hallsville resident, Baylie excelled in the rigorous nursing program while also being highly involved at ETBU and in the community. She was inducted into Alpha Lambda Delta and Sigma Theta Tau honor societies during her time at ETBU. Baylie played the clarinet in the Tiger Band and was an ETBU Twirler, performing choreographed baton twirling at football games and pep rallies. She has served as a Baptist Student Ministry leader at ETBU and went on a six-week mission trip to Poland with GoNow missions as a BSM student. Bailey has served on mission trips to Colorado, Houston, Arlington, San Antonio, and Paris.

“Baylie is one of the most caring and compassionate people that I have ever met,” Senior Assistant Professor of Nursing and Robert Craig Chair of Nursing Martha Dudley said. “She truly lives to serve the Lord, and she does that so effortlessly. As a young adult, she is an inspiration to everyone around her. I have seen her listen to the troubles of her classmates, and she always offers a positive way to overcome the problem or has encouraging words to help change a perspective. In the patient care setting, I have seen her care for patients and really enjoy the work that she does. You can see that she loves the Lord beyond any earthly measure.”

ETBU offers more than a dozen graduate and over 60 undergraduate degree programs to develop Christian servant leaders. ETBU’s mission of providing a transformational, Christcentered education and commitment to helping students succeed is realized within the University’s graduates.

“During my time at ETBU, I’ve seen the Lord stretch me, guide me, and surround me with people who helped shape my faith and character,” December 2025 graduate Sofia Vovk said. “My biggest takeaway is that God is always working behind the scenes, even when I don’t see it at first, and He always places me exactly where I need to be. ETBU has been a reminder that His timing is perfect and His plans are better than anything I could have written for myself.”

Reaching New Heights

ETBU CONFERS FIRST DOCTORAL DEGREES WITH B. H. CARROLL THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

East Texas Baptist University marked a historic academic milestone, conferring its first doctoral degrees during the Fall Commencement ceremony. The moment represented more than the awarding of diplomas, it signified a new chapter in the University’s Christcentered mission and academic growth.

B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at ETBU recognized two distinguished doctoral graduates. Arcadis Solano Silvera received the Doctor of Philosophy in Scripture and Witness, while Jason Horine was awarded the Doctor of Ministry in Ministry and Formation.

“We celebrate with Arcadis Solano Silvera, who received the Doctor of Philosophy, and Jason Horine, who received the Doctor of Ministry,” B. H. Carroll Dean, Dr. Gene Wilkes said.

“These two degrees, now in the hands of able ministers of the Gospel, I see as symbolic of what we do. The Ph.D. we provide trains faculty for the Christian academy—colleges, universities, and seminaries—and it also prepares gifted pastor-scholars for the equally important role of theological education in our congregations. The Doctor of Ministry degree sharpens the professional skills of pastors and other workers in the vineyard with the goal of making their churches healthier and more effective in communicating the Gospel.”

ETBU is committed to developing Christian servant leaders equipped for faithful scholarship, biblical engagement, and transformational ministry. With the conferral of these doctoral degrees, the University strengthens its role in preparing men and women to lead with conviction, wisdom, and a heart for service, impacting churches, communities, and the world for Christ.

EQUIPPED LEAD to

PURSUE YOUR GRADUATE DEGREE ONLINE

Advance your calling through flexible, fully online master’s and doctoral programs at B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at ETBU.

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Room to Learn

A STROLL THROUGH THE NEWLY RENOVATED LEARNING CENTER AT JARRETT LIBRARY

The exterior of Jarrett Library on East Texas Baptist University’s campus remains as timeless and beautiful as it always has, but the interior just received a major makeover. Walking through the glass door entryway into the bright lobby, students, faculty, and staff are greeted by friendly faces at the reception desk. Just to the left, students can be seen collaborating on projects and studying for exams in five glass conference rooms with whiteboards for drawing graphs, notes, and equations.

ETBU was recently awarded a significant $2.2 million federal grant from

the U.S. Department of Education’s Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP). Over the course of five years, the grant, named Project G.P.A.: Grow! Perform! Achieve!, will fund initiatives that are crucial in improving retention and graduation rates, especially for first-year students, student-athletes, and at-risk students. Key features of the project include a significant renovation of Jarrett Library to create a centralized academic support hub, the hiring of additional peer tutors and academic coaches, and the expansion of services through the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE). These efforts are not just individual initiatives, but a collective endeavor designed to foster collaboration, boost academic performance, and increase four-year graduation rates. The investment marks a pivotal step forward in ETBU’s ongoing mission to provide

a Christ-centered education while cultivating student achievement and holistic development.

“I have heard really positive comments from students about the way that the

space is helping them to feel like they can study in lots of different ways,” Elizabeth Ponder, Assistant Provost and Associate Professor of Library Sciences, said. “We have some students who really like to study on their own and have a quiet space, and we have some students who have wanted for a long time to have some designated spaces where they could gather in small study groups. The design enables all of us to think about how we want to use it. Those design elements have provided students with good places to meet up and study, which is really what the modern library is about and what academic success is about.”

Past the line of conference rooms is a large area for individual study illuminated by a crystal and gold chandelier. Through a set of glass doors, The Study is a student favorite, with cozy arched alcoves and comfortable booths perfect for writing a paper or collaborating on a presentation. Television monitors with HDMI connections serve to screenshare class notes, group projects, and test reviews.

“I really hope that these renovations give students a chance to study together better in more collaborative ways and really think through the ideas they are learning in class,” Director of Library Services, Daniel Vaughan said. “The renovation helps them get more access

to the resources in the library, both the online resources through databases and ebooks, as well as our physical collection and resources. It is all collaborative by design.”

The renovations have allowed the Office of Academic Success to move from Marshall Hall to the more functional Learning Center at Jarrett Library. This change has created a space where students who need support know that they can go to the Learning Center and receive it, even if they do not exactly know what kind of assistance they need. The Learning Center also offers the addition of eight more private testing and study rooms, increasing the number of testing and study rooms to 13, which was highly necessary to support students with accommodations, especially during mid-terms and finals.

“One of the main things that the grant made us do was to consider how this money is going to be used for all students on campus, not just for specific populations,” Assistant Provost for Adult and Graduate Studies and lead on the Title III project, Dr. Bryan Mead said. “We’ve always had an eye toward increasing the graduation rate, but we also want to increase the ability for all students on campus to utilize our academic

services and support. We are already seeing big and wonderful ways that more people are using the services and support that we have on a more consistent basis.

If a student is able to do testing in the Learning Center, they also now know that they can meet with an advisor to talk about homework, scheduling, time management, test strategies, career guidance, and more. There are a number of people in the Learning Center who can help them at any time.”

Each moving piece of the Learning Center at Jarrett Library comes together into the perfect space for students to pursue excellence in their studies, get support for skill and career development, and be tutored by peers for rigorous classes. Potential new students will be wowed by the one-of-a-kind

facility solely meant to support their time at ETBU, and current students are utilizing the renovated study spaces each day.

“I really hope that these renovations give students a chance to study together better in more collaborative ways and really think through the ideas they are learning in class.”

-Daniel Vaughan

“Requests for research assistance in the Jarrett Library have increased steadily over the last three years, with a notable rise following the Summer 2025 renovation,” Ponder said. “From Fall 2024 to Fall 2025, requests increased by nearly 80 percent, indicating that the refreshed space encourages increased student traffic and engagement, resulting in more requests for librarian support. Overall usage of the student support services provided by the Office of Academic Success continued to trend upward in Fall 2025 following the relocation to the Learning Center. These positive usage trends show that placing student support services together in a central, modern space is making it easier for students to seek help when they need it.”

With 40% of students identifying as first generation, the grant reinforces the University’s commitment to walk alongside students from all backgrounds

to help them grow in knowledge, faith, and purpose. By expanding resources and support systems, ETBU is not only improving academic outcomes but also empowering students to thrive and equipping future graduates to lead and serve their communities as Christian servant leaders in a rapidly changing world.

“Part of the grant is making sure that the improvements that we implement can be continued in the future,” Dr. Mead said. “These improvements are planned to continue even after the five years of grant funding end. During these five years, students will become familiar with and know this is the way things work at ETBU. This is where you go for academic support. These are the people who can help. These are the types of caring and supportive people who we have on campus.”

The elation of more than 1,000 members of the East Texas Baptist University family reuniting with their students filled the Hill with a joyous energy during Family Weekend 2025. Group hugs, excited shouts, and some happy tears were spotted across the campus as students and families enjoyed sunny skies and the shade of beautiful trees. The weekend schedule allowed participants to relish in time spent together through spiritual, academic, athletic, and social events.

ETBU welcomed students, families, and loved ones for Family Weekend on Friday, September 12, through Sunday, September 14, 2025. Families explored a variety of events showcasing life on the Hill.

“Our hope for Family Weekend is that our students’ cups are filled and their parents experience all the good that their child has been telling them about over the past few weeks,” Director of Student Life Laura Coursey said. “My favorite aspect of Family Weekend is always the enhanced community that

comes from our extended Tiger Family. Our students are so dear to our hearts, and having a piece of theirs with us for the weekend at ETBU really makes our time together so special.”

The evening kicked off on Friday with Gather at the Grove, a time of music, fellowship, lawn games, and local crowd-favorite food trucks. Families were also welcome to play pickleball, sand volleyball, and basketball. The BGB Improv Troupe had a Family Weekend Game Show performance before Movie Night Under the Stars at Jason Bell Park at Taylor Field, where families savored popcorn, candy, and drinks while watching a family-favorite film. Family Weekend also aligned with the 15th annual Great East Texas Hymn Sing, hosted by ETBU, where hundreds of campus community members and guests gathered to celebrate the Christian faith through singing hymns led by ETBU alumni, faculty, and staff, accompanied by piano and organ.

“We’ve really enjoyed spending time together at the events—from the worship service to Gather at the Grove and the Tailgate,” said Jim Brown, father of freshman Reagan Brown. “The best part has been meeting her friends and their families.” Reagan’s mom, Patty Brown, added, “It makes us feel so much more

comfortable knowing she’s surrounded by people who love her and love God.”

The second day of Family Weekend events began with the Small Business Saturday Market and Brunch Bar, where families and loved ones selected from a variety of juices and breakfast foods while browsing products from vendors offering everything from baked goods and coffee to crafts, beauty products, and services. Later, students and their families gathered in Baker Chapel for Family Worship, followed by Tiger Family Lunch in Bennett Dining Commons. In the afternoon, the Family and Faculty Connection offered families the opportunity to meet their students’ professors. In the evening, many participated in the Family Tailgate before the ETBU Tiger Football game against Oklahoma Panhandle State University, where the Tigers put an exclamation point on the day with a 28-0 victory. The weekend ended with families attending their Tigers’ local church for morning worship and then their favorite Sunday lunch spot.

“Family Weekend is one of our favorite times of the year because it allows us to welcome parents and families into the life of the University,” Senior Vice President for Campus Life Ryan Erwin said. “It’s a chance to walk alongside them, celebrate

the ways their students are growing and thriving, and rejoice together in the Christ-centered community that makes ETBU feel like home.”

“The best part [of Family Weekend] has been meeting her friends and their families. It makes us feel so much more comfortable knowing she’s surrounded by people who love her and love God.”

-Patty Brown

Once a Tiger, Always a Tiger

ETBU TIGER FAMILY CELEBRATES HOMECOMING

ON THE HILL

Generations of East Texas Baptist University Tigers traveled from near and far to reconnect with the University that prepared them for a faithful life outside its borders. Old friends embraced and reminisced on times gone by, while new friends made memories of their own. Campus hummed with activity throughout the warm October weekend as the Tiger family celebrated God’s blessings at the University that connects them.

Throughout the week leading up to Homecoming 2025, the University

held a variety of engaging events for students, including pumpkin painting, Conversations with the President, Trivia Tuesday, Powder Puff games, and the annual Western Dance.

Homecoming weekend welcomed alumni and friends to on-campus festivities Friday, October 17, through Saturday, October 18.

“It is always a joy to look across Baker Chapel and see generations of Tiger students, graduates, faculty, and friends gathered together in celebration,

worship, and fellowship,” President J. Blair Blackburn said. “Whether we reflect on times past in the days of the College of Marshall, or whether you studied at East Texas Baptist College or East Texas Baptist University, we are united today by the same Christ-centered mission that continues to shape minds and spirits here on this sacred Hill.”

On Friday morning, ETBU students and alumni gathered for the annual Homecoming Chapel service to honor the 2025 Golden Blazers, Alumni Awards recipients, Golden Lightkeeper Award recipient, and the class of 1975. Since the program’s inception in 2010, 109 members have been presented with ETBU’s traditional Golden Blazer as a symbol of leadership, spiritual authority, and God’s blessing. These ambassadors have provided generous financial support and countless volunteer hours to ETBU.

The 2025 Golden Blazers are Jean (Atkinson) Davis (’97), Ruth (Atkinson) Hoffman (’77), and Billy Hoffman (’77).

The Alumni Awards honored Steve Akin (’73) with the Unsung Hero Award and Joshua Zamora (’10) with the Young Alumnus Award; Laura (Hopkins) Sammons (’98) accepted the J. Wesley

Smith Achievement Award, Dr. Randall O’Brien (’85) was awarded the Alumni Achievement Award, and Claudia and Mac Abney were honored with the W.T. Tardy Service Award.

“Students, you are each finding an edge in your future, whether it is a career that you cannot picture yet, a calling you do not feel quite ready for, or just a challenge that is too high,” Sammons said. “But what I challenge you today is when you find yourself at that edge, whatever it may be, lean into the faith and the foundation that you are building here at ETBU. Because you are getting everything you need to be able to take that step and not just step off the edge, but to soar.”

Alumna Jeanne (Gibbs) Gray (’70) was honored with the Golden Lightkeeper Award, a distinction reserved for alumni who graduated over 50 years ago and have made lasting impacts in their vocations, church, and communities. Gray brings 41 years of experience in education, primarily teaching first through third grades, with a special love for second grade. She earned a master’s degree in library science and devoted her career to nurturing young learners. Her

husband, Dee Gray, spent 49 years as a math teacher, and together they have two daughters and three grandchildren.

“In 1966, a very shy, quiet girl looked up at the East Texas Baptist College archway and fell in love,” Gray said. “I fell in love with the campus, the people, and life on the Hill. By 1966, I found myself in Scarborough Chapel, shaking the hands of Dr. Howard C. Bennett, president of ETBC. He handed me my diploma, and he said, ‘Jeanne, life is going to get even better.’ As I walked across the stage, I realized East Texas Baptist College had prepared me for my life career. Not only that, ETBC had given me confidence to pursue my dreams.”

During the two-day celebration, the Tiger Family enjoyed a variety of activities, including an ETBU Jazz Band concert, theatre production, Tiger Pep Rally, Late Night Breakfast, Decade Reunions, the Tiger Family Carnival and Tailgate, and ETBU Tiger Football, Volleyball, and Soccer.

“It is so wonderful to come back and touch base with my old classmates. I have enjoyed reminiscing and visiting the campus,” Debbie (Ross) Kuss (’75) said. “We are planning this afternoon to go

and look at the new buildings and new facilities because we have not been here in a good while, probably 15 years. It is way more beautiful than it ever was. That is not to say it was not beautiful back

“In 1966, a very shy, quiet girl looked up at the East Texas Baptist College archway and fell in love. I fell in love with the campus, the people, and life on the Hill. ”

-Jeanne (Gibbs) Gray (’70)

2025 Homecoming Court from left to right: Freshman Duchess and Duke Katelynn Scott and Noah Zarate; Sophomore Duchess and Duke Kirbee Webb and Mason Stancliff; Homecoming King and Queen Max Karseno and Christina Walbridge; Senior Duke and Duchess Carlos Jaral and Darcie Palmer; Junior Duke and Duchess Clayton Darby and Annsleigh Stewart.

ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT DR. RANDAL O’BRIEN (’85)

Dr. Randal O’Brien (’85) earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from East Texas Baptist University. He currently serves as Superintendent of Schools for Goose Creek Consolidated Independent School District in Baytown, Texas. He and his wife, Monica, enjoy spending time with their family. Dr. O’Brien has been recognized as Superintendent of the Year in both Region 12 and Region 4. Reflecting on his time at ETBU, he shares, “My time at East Texas Baptist University helped shape me into the man I would become. This experience was more than going off to college. It was, in fact, the process of receiving an education about life. The academic and spiritual growth that I experienced while on the Hill provided me with a purpose for my life.”

then, but it is definitely improved in appearance and, of course, size. I am delighted that the Lord continues to bless this place.”

The 2025 Homecoming Court was revealed during halftime of the football game against Hardin-Simmons University. The court featured Freshman Duke and Duchess Noah Zarate and Katelynn Scott; Sophomore Duke and Duchess Mason Stancliff and Kirbee Webb; Junior Duke and Duchess Clayton Darby and Annsleigh Stewart; and Senior Duke and Duchess Carlos Jaral and Darcie Palmer. ETBU seniors Max Karseno and Christina Walbridge were crowned the 2025 Homecoming King and Queen.

“It means the world to be voted for this honor by my fellow classmates and students at ETBU,” Karseno said. “I am so thankful that God brought me to this university and the amazing friendships I have made during my time here on the Hill. This experience is even sweeter because I get to do it alongside Christina, and we can cap off our senior year together.”

The King and Queen were nominated for embodying the qualities of a Christian leader, scholar, and servant. Max Karseno is a Carrollton, Texas native, majoring in Sport Management. He is a member of Mobberly Baptist Church in Marshall. A dedicated student-athlete, Karseno is a member

GOLDEN LIGHTKEEPER JEANNE (GIBBS) GRAY (’70)

Jeanne (Gibbs) Gray (’70) earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Interdisciplinary Studies from East Texas Baptist College. She devoted 41 years to education, specializing in first, second, and third grades, with a special passion for teaching second grade. She also holds a master’s degree in library science. Her husband, Dee Gray, served as a math teacher for 49 years. Together, they built a home centered on faith, family, and education. Gray is the proud mother of two daughters and grandmother of three. Family, church, and education have always been central to Gray’s life.

J. WESLEY SMITH ACHIEVEMENT

LAURA (HOPKINS) SAMMONS (’98)

Laura (Hopkins) Sammons (’98) earned a Bachelor of Music from East Texas Baptist University. She and her husband, Nick, live in Pearland, Texas, with their five children. For over a decade, Laura served as legal counsel and Head of Litigation Prevention and Management at CVA Logistics. In the summer of 2025, she left her legal career to return to her first calling—music education, the field for which ETBU prepared her. She now serves as Choir Director at Pearland Junior High East, where she inspires students to discover their voices and purpose. Laura and her family are active members of Parkway Church, where she sings on the praise team and serves alongside her husband in youth ministry.

of the 2025 ASC Championship ETBU Men’s Tennis team and was named tournament MVP. During his time as a Tiger, he has earned All-ASC Second Team (2024) and All-ASC Academic honors in both 2023 and 2024. Beyond athletics, Max is on the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) leadership team, is part of the campus Intramural staff, contributes to the StudentAthlete Advisory Committee, is involved in the MARSH PITT, serves as a Tiger Camp leader, and mentors fellow students as a Thrive Peer Mentor. Christina Walbridge is a 2025 Teague School of Nursing graduate from Plano, Texas. She is an active member of Mobberly Baptist Church in Marshall, where she served as a children’s ministry apprentice. On campus, Christina served as a Resident Assistant in Steve and Penny Carlile Hall and welcomed incoming students to campus over the past three years as a Tiger Camp leader. She was a member of the Texas Nursing Students Association (TNSA) and the Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society.

“To me, winning homecoming queen is such a testament to the Lord’s goodness in my life, Walbridge said. “I cannot be more grateful for this community that ETBU and the Lord have given me, and being chosen alongside Max was just the sweetest gift.”

UNSUNG HERO

STEVE AKIN (’73)

Stephen Akin (’73) earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from East Texas Baptist College. While completing his studies, he served as Minister of Music at First Baptist Church in Jefferson. Following graduation, he and his wife, Carla Greer (’71), moved to Fort Worth, where he earned a Master of Church Music from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Throughout his ministry career, Akin faithfully served Texas Baptist churches as a Minister of Music in Lubbock, San Marcos, Lewisville, and Athens. Over time, his passion for mission work led him to transition from music ministry to serve as Minister of Missions at First Baptist Church, Athens, where he remained until his retirement in August 2023. Steve and Carla are blessed with three sons: Paul, Jacob, and Matthew.

W.T. TARDY SERVICE MAC & CLAUDIA ABNEY

Mac and Claudia Abney are certified public accountants who have worked together for more than 49 years. Mac serves as President of Abney and Company, PLLC. Throughout the years, the Abneys have been deeply involved in East Texas Baptist University through teaching, supporting Tiger athletics, hiring alumni, and championing university initiatives and campaigns. Mac has served in numerous professional and civic leadership roles, including service with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants, and various regional boards and foundations. The Abneys have two children and five grandchildren and remain dedicated supporters of ETBU’s mission and vision.

2025 ALUMNI AWARDS

YOUNG ALUMNUS JOSHUA ZAMORA (’10)

Joshua Angle Zamora (’10) earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from East Texas Baptist University. He resides in Cypress, Texas, with his wife and three children. With nearly fifteen years of experience in the upstream and midstream energy sectors, Zamora has worked both domestically and internationally in oil and gas exploration and production throughout Asia and Australia. Reflecting on his time on the Hill, he shares, “All individuals on the Hill carried themselves in an ‘awe’ inspiring manner, and that inspiration gave birth to a personal belief that I can accomplish anything that I set out to achieve in my career path.”

Wind whistled through the reeds, and a nearby brook babbled in East Texas Baptist University’s Black Box Theatre in Jenna Guest Music Building. Attendees could hear music from a church holding vigil as they entered. For two weekends in October, performers and attendees stepped through the threshold into a theatre transformed to the hills of southern Scotland and prepared for a

beautiful and heart-wrenching performance.

East Texas Baptist University’s Department of Music and Theatre Arts began its 2025-2026 production season with The Women of Lockerbie. The play was written by Deborah Brevoort, directed at ETBU by Professor of Theatre Arts Dr. Katie Wampler, and designed by Associate Professor of Theatre Arts

Jake Yenish. The Women of Lockerbie follows a mother’s journey from New Jersey to Lockerbie, Scotland, in search of her son’s lost remains seven years after the Pan Am 103 tragedy. There, she meets the women of Lockerbie—ordinary women on an extraordinary

Hope through Heartache

ETBU THEATRE’S FALL PLAY EXPLORES GRIEF AND COMMUNITY

mission: to reclaim the victims’ clothing from the U.S. government, cleanse it, and return it to grieving families. Loosely inspired by true events, The Women of Lockerbie is structured like a Greek tragedy, exploring how love can rise from the ashes of hate.

“While it is a tragedy, there are so many beautiful stories that have come out of it,” junior theatre arts education major Daryn Wilmore said. “So many people have grown closer in Lockerbie because of the crash. It is a heavy show, but it is also a hopeful show because of the sense of community that is built. These women

have gone through it together, but they still support each other and come out the other side.”

On December 21, 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was en route from Heathrow Airport in London to New York City when a bomb exploded in the luggage compartment while flying over Lockerbie, killing all 259 passengers and 11 Scots on the ground. Until the September 11 attacks, it was one of the world’s most lethal acts of air terrorism and one of the largest and most complex acts of international terrorism ever investigated by the FBI.

“My favorite scene in the show is all of the women washing the clothes together,” sophomore theatre arts education major Piper Michlitsch said. “[The women of Lockerbie] bring along the American woman, and they’re all this little community of people whose worlds were shattered by this horrible thing that happened. But they were still able to give love to people and to make sure that this tragedy didn’t end tragically.”

Several students were involved in both the cast and production

crew for The Women of Lockerbie. Michlitsch played Woman 1, one of the Lockerbie women, and was on the costume crew. Wilmore played Hattie, the Scottish cleaning woman for the American government official George Jones, and designed show’s sound.

“My vision for the sound was I wanted people to walk into the theater and be completely immersed and feel like they were in Lockerbie,” Wilmore said. “I could have just put some music on and called it done, but I really wanted wind and the river rushing and a variety of different sounds that were not perfectly timed, so that there would be that little bit of mystery. [The script] says that they just came from a vigil, so I wanted the music in the background to almost be as if you could hear the church in the distance.”

With such heavy material portrayed by the actors, Dr. Wampler took special care to ensure the cast and crew knew how to approach the subject of grief.

This included students meeting with a therapist to discuss how it affects people and how to not be consumed by grief.

“If we were working on a particularly hard scene, we were given a moment to process,” Wilmore said. “And at the end of every rehearsal and show, we would gather around in a circle and say, ‘I was acting, and the work is useful.’ They wanted to make sure that we did not take the show home.”

Each theatre season has a theme to

promote biblical learning and integration of faith, and the 2025-2026 season’s theme is “Loving and Truthful Community,” based on Ephesians 4:15-16. The department used the theme to inform every decision in preparing the show. All aspects of the play were intentional, from the Scottish accents to the sound to the set design. Yenish and Dr. Wampler analyzed the script and scenic images of Scotland to craft the set and lighting.

“This summer, I had the privilege to visit Lockerbie,” Dr. Wampler said. “At one of the memorials, every exhibit about the tragedy included the phrase ‘Look Back, Act Forward.’ I hope that attendees of The Women of Lockerbie ‘looked back’ as they watched the play and ‘acted forward’ with truth and love upon leaving the theater.”

The director, designer, and actors collaborated to create a magnificent show that received national recognition. A professor from a community school in Louisiana came to view the performance of The Women of Lockerbie as part of the American College Theatre Festival. He gave a meritorious award for the entire cast: Ensemble Cast for Excellence in Ensemble Acting.

“There is a line [in the play] that is so applicable, saying ‘When evil comes into the world, it is the job of the witness to turn it to love,’” Michlitsh said. “That is such a beautiful sentiment because it is biblical. We are supposed to use our trials to turn them into good. What is intended for evil, God can use for good. I feel like that is the message of the play. The fact that even horrible things will and have happened, but that does not have to be the end of the story.”

“When evil comes into the world, it is the job of the witness to turn it to love.”

-The Women of Lockerbie

Momentum for the Future

ETBU ADVANCES STUDENT SUCCESS THROUGH FAITH-CENTERED SUPPORT AND ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Over the past decade, East Texas Baptist University has experienced remarkable progress in student success, driven by a unified campus commitment to academic excellence, integration of faith and learning, and student support.

Since 2011, ETBU has increased its four-year graduation rate by 28 percentage points, representing a 147% improvement. This growth has positioned ETBU above the average of 16 peer Christian and regional universities, making the University one of the leading institutions in this category. In addition, ETBU has awarded 64% more undergraduate and graduate degrees over the past ten years, demonstrating the lasting impact of the University’s student success initiatives.

Vice President for Academics and Provost Dr. Thomas Sanders emphasized the collaborative nature of this transformation. “When we started this journey 13 years ago, it was really beyond our consideration that we could make this much progress, chiefly because it takes a long time and a great deal of strategic and continual effort from many different leaders to improve graduation rates to this extent. I am so thankful for all the people, past and present, who led with the end in mind: graduating more Christian servant leaders who are following their calling to God and humanity.”

ETBU’s progress is especially significant given its student body demographics. Nearly 40 percent of ETBU students are first-generation college students, meaning that earning

a degree is not just a milestone for the individual but a breakthrough for the entire family.

“We have a lot of students who arrive without a family history of higher education success,” Assistant Provost for Adult and Graduate Studies Bryan Mead said. “This is both exciting and daunting for these students who are blazing a trail for their family, but also may not have the academic resources they need before they arrive on campus.”

A combination of strategic policy changes, student-focused faculty development, enhanced academic assistance, and the creation of the University Thrive program has driven this decade-long improvement. Thrive provides students with academic coaching, career-readiness opportunities, and holistic support designed to help them succeed inside and outside the classroom.

At the heart of a student’s journey at ETBU is the Office of Academic Success, which walks alongside Tigers from their first semester through graduation and beyond. Housed in Jarrett Learning Center, the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) and Writing Lab offer personalized tutoring, writing consultations, and academic coaching designed to empower students to become confident, independent learners. Undergraduate students receive peer-to-peer support from trained tutors who excel in their own studies, while graduate students benefit from professional writing assistance tailored to the demands of advanced coursework.

Programs such as Supplemental Instruction and Power Hours provide collaborative, course-specific study opportunities that reinforce classroom learning and prepare students for exams. Whether guiding students in choosing a degree path, providing accommodations for physical or learning needs, or simply offering encouragement, the Office of Academic Success ensures that every Tiger has the resources and support to advance academically.

“Our staff consists of dedicated leaders who love students and want to see them succeed,” Dr. Mead said. “Our culture at ETBU is very student-centered, and the group in Academic Success exemplifies what it means to put students first in everything they do. It’s true when they are making attendance calls, training our student tutors, providing one-on-one coaching, or offering testing support.”

ETBU student-athletes continue to raise the bar for academic achievement.

In Spring 2025, Tiger Athletics achieved the highest grade point average in department history, with a 3.33 semester

“When students thrive in the classroom, in their community, and in their spiritual life, they stay engaged and complete their degrees.”

-Ryan Erwin

GPA and a 3.34 cumulative GPA, significantly up from a 3.00 semester GPA and 3.01 cumulative GPA in Fall 2016.

“The first semester for our freshmen student-athletes is the most challenging,” ETBU Head Football Coach Calvin Ruzicka said. “Every routine is new from where they live, eat, being away from family and friends, meetings, practice, and learning to navigate class schedules. The faculty and staff in Academic Success help them through this adjustment period, especially with time management and study skills. Our ACE Lab for tutoring is easy to access and provides academic support to any of our students who need it. The willingness and availability of our professors to meet with students not only during office hours but also when students need assistance show how much this University truly cares about the well-being and success of its students. I feel these intentional,

personal relationships help foster our Christ-centered educational experience at ETBU and lead to the retention and ultimately graduation of our studentathletes.”

As ETBU looks ahead to the next decade, the University remains committed to maintaining an environment where students can discover their purpose, achieve academic success, and transform the world through Christian servant leadership.

“When students thrive in the classroom, in their community, and in their spiritual life, they stay engaged and complete their degrees,” Senior Vice President for Campus Life Ryan Erwin said. “Our progress in retention and graduation rates reflects the power of a campus working together. Every department plays a role in supporting students and laying a foundation that carries them all the way to graduation.”

Q&A WITH ETBU'S DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION

Creating Christ-like Communicators

The Department of Communication at East Texas Baptist University seeks to provide students pursuing a degree in communication with the theoretical foundations and practical knowledge of effective personal, public, and creative communication principles.

Dr. Kate Mead, Assistant Dean and Associate Professor of Communication, Professor Dan Streety, Chair of Department of Communication and Associate Professor of Communication, Dr. Angela Anima-Korang, Associate Professor of Communication and MASC Program Director, and Professor Klaire Smith, Assistant Professor of Communication, share about the importance of teaching students to be effective and faithful communicators.

HOW DO YOU INTEGRATE FAITH INTO THE CLASSROOM AT ETBU?

I think those are things that really cannot and should not be separated. One of the verses I like that applies to communication is "out of the heart, the mouth speaks" (Luke 6:45). When we have faith, as long as we are deepening that faith, it is going to influence what comes out of our mouth, or out of our fingers if we are typing, or any sort of communication. Every way we think through a communication process should be informed by our Christian worldview. Sometimes that is latent, and we know it is happening, but we are not necessarily focusing on it. What I aim to do in classes is to bring that to the surface and say, "What you just replied, what you are thinking right now, is actually influenced by where your heart is."

WHAT IS YOUR RESEARCH FOCUS WITHIN COMMUNICATION, AND HOW DOES THAT INFORM YOUR TEACHING?

Prominent communication scholar

Robert Craig said that there are seven different areas in the field of communication, and one of them is called

the socio-cultural. The core of this view of communication is that communication creates culture. That is where most of my interest falls because communication is the building block for everything. We even go back to Genesis, which says that God spoke and then creation occurred. In class, we talk about how it is the verbal communication and the non-verbal communication that change everything. I just love that God allows us to influence all of the world through the way that we communicate.

WHAT MAKES THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION AT ETBU UNIQUE?

The faith component. The spiritual side of your life is wholly integral to what we are doing. It is not only going to make you a better communication major or communication staff member; eventually, it is going to make you a better human creation of God. That is a very, very unique aspect. Also, the scale of ETBU allows students to come here and say, "I do not precisely know what I want to do." Students can start taking our communication courses and explore the interpersonal, sports communication,

WITH DR. KATE MEAD

DR. KATE MEAD HAS TAUGHT AT ETBU SINCE 2020. SHE IS THE ASSISTANT DEAN OF THE SCHOOL OF COMMUNICATION AND PERFORMING ARTS AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF COMMUNICATION. DR. MEAD EARNED A B.A. IN COMMUNICATION STUDIES FROM OLIVET NAZARENE UNIVERSITY, A M.A. IN COMMUNICATION FROM NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY, AND A PH.D. IN COMMUNICATION FROM LIBERTY UNIVERSITY.

graphic design, broadcasting, or public relations sides. Giving students the opportunity to explore is a big deal.

WHAT DO YOU PRAY FOR MOST OFTEN ON BEHALF OF YOUR STUDENTS?

The students are all similar ages for the most part, and yet they have totally different backgrounds. We have students who were raised in the Christian church, and for those students, I really pray for them to tear down that human understanding and make sure they are pursuing God's understanding. I pray that God would make His face real to them. We also have the students who might not have been raised in a church. My prayer for them is that they would have an encounter with the real God. I have seen both of those happen, and in the best classrooms, they work together at ETBU. My favorite moments are when I see God moving in such a powerful, obvious way, with students who do not seem similar at all. I get to watch them hone each other, as iron sharpens iron, in a very unexpected way, which is the greatest thing ever.

WITH DAN STREETY

DAN STREETY HAS SERVED AS A FACULTY MEMBER AT ETBU SINCE 2020. HE IS THE CHAIR OF THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION AND AN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF COMMUNICATION. PROFESSOR STREETY RECEIVED HIS M.F.A. IN VISUAL NARRATIVE FROM THE SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS IN NEW YORK AND A B.A. FROM OKLAHOMA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY.

WHAT IS YOUR HOPE FOR COMMUNICATION STUDENTS AFTER THEY GRADUATE?

My personal agenda, as the Chair, is to ensure that graduates are confident enough to walk into any conference room and immediately contribute. Find jobs, contribute to their communities, do their best work, and be happy. That is the ultimate goal. I want to send graduates into the market confident and also prepared to help their communities and their churches.

HOW DO YOU INTEGRATE FAITH INTO THE CLASSROOM AT ETBU?

I have been intentionally challenging myself in this because I teach several workshop classes, such as graphic design, video production, animation, and media lab. These are all active, kinetic workshop classes. I have intentionally made at least one project a faith-based project, and my favorite project is in graphic design. They have to design a book cover for a book of the Bible of their choosing. It was an amazing experience where I sat back and watched students debate the book of Esther. For 20 minutes, they just talked about Scripture amongst

themselves while I just listened in. My goal in doing all of that is to say, if you have an opportunity after you graduate to support or help your church, you can do more than just show up. You can literally be their social media content creator. You can produce videos for them. You can write things for them. I try to take real world application into the classroom about how to use their skills for the Great Commission. We are supposed to go out and tell. The whole purpose of communication is to spread the message.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS INTERESTED IN STUDYING COMMUNICATION?

Be open-minded. Be flexible. Be daring. I tell my students all the time, the best thing about college is that you get to try things and take risks. I tell them that I will recognize the value of you trying and failing as much as I will recognize the value of you playing it safe and doing well. I would encourage potential students to come in with a hunger to work and explore. Dr. Mead, Professor Smith, and Dr. Anima-Korang are constantly challenging our students to

explore, think, and do. That is my favorite part, and that is why they should come and be a part of the comm department. It is in everything we do. I tell the incoming students every year: if you do not believe you can change the world, I am going to show you how you can. John F. Kennedy said that we were going to put a man on the moon; the world believed him, and we put a man on the moon. Martin Luther King Jr. rallied people together by saying he had a dream. That is communication.

WHAT DO YOU PRAY FOR MOST OFTEN ON BEHALF OF YOUR STUDENTS?

That they are safe. Some of them come to ETBU with really challenging lives. Our University offers students many opportunities that some schools do not, which is another thing I love about ETBU. I get to see lives changed here. I just pray that they continue to change, grow, and blossom. My favorite thing is when former students are excited to email me and tell me they got a job. That is my prayer—for them to be happy, safe contributors who can change the world.

WHAT MAKES THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION AT ETBU UNIQUE?

We are a hub of talent and creativity, which encourages empathy, kindness, responsibility, and accountability, especially in what we share. You cannot have any other field without communication. You can be the best surgeon in the world, but if you are not able to reach your patients, if you are not able to teach them, and show them what exactly you are doing, and if the individual does not have the efficacy to say that they are capable of knowledgably undergoing a procedure, there is some brokenness there. We see a society broken down by a lack of communication. I do think that is really what makes us unique at ETBU. The kind of students, faculty, and staff we have in the comm department share that empathy, kindness, accountability, and responsibility. It permeates everywhere.

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST WAYS STUDENTS IN ETBU'S DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION ARE EQUIPPED FOR SUCCESS?

Definitely through engaged learning and real-world experiences. We have

work study, internships, and our studentled PR hub—COMM Society. We also do real-world projects in class. Last year in PR Campaigns class, we adopted the Marshall Public Library and completed PR projects for it, including proposing updates to its website and revamping its brochures and publicity materials. After that, the director took on one of our students as an intern. These experiences create opportunities for collaboration and growth and prepare students well for the workforce after they graduate.

WHAT IS YOUR RESEARCH FOCUS

WITHIN COMMUNICATION, AND HOW DOES IT INFORM YOUR TEACHING?

My primary focus has always been on health optimization. I have done research on HIV care and treatment, mental health, social support, COVID-19 effects, and so much more. Currently, I am working to identify the health needs of the elderly in small communities with limited health resources. My goal is to collaborate with local health organizations to create a seamless health experience for them. I am also researching the prevalence of HIV in some cities in Ghana. This was my first research interest and what got

WITH DR. ANGELA ANIMA-KORANG

DR. ANGELA ANIMA-KORANG JOINED ETBU'S FACULTY IN 2019. SHE IS THE DIRECTOR OF THE MASTER OF ARTS IN STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF COMMUNICATION. SHE HAS A PH.D. IN MASS COMMUNICATION & MEDIA ARTS, AND HAS ACHIEVED A M.P.H., M.S. IN MASS COMMUNICATION, AND A B.S. IN COMPUTER SCIENCE.

me interested in communication. My interest in research absolutely shapes the way I teach. It allows me to bring my background, my expertise, and my knowledge into the classroom, as well as things I have learned, like my failures and shortcomings. I can bring it all into a classroom setting and help students be better, learn better, and do better.

WHAT DO YOU PRAY FOR MOST OFTEN ON BEHALF

OF YOUR STUDENTS?

I pray for grace for them. I pray that they all have a good semester. One of the things that, for me, is very necessary is getting to know the students, especially those who need some light. That I am able to be kind, and when I need to be. That I am able to be empathetic when I need to be empathetic. My prayer is always that I am able to be present in ways that are needed, even if I am not sure I am looking for them, or even if I am not conscious of them. I pray that I am always present in the way that the students need me to be.

WITH KLAIRE SMITH

KLAIRE SMITH JOINED THE FACULTY OF ETBU IN 2024. SHE IS AN ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF COMMUNICATION. PROFESSOR SMITH EARNED A B.A. IN SPEECH COMMUNICATION AT EAST TEXAS BAPTIST UNIVERSITY AND A M.A. IN STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION AT EAST TEXAS BAPTIST UNIVERSITY. PROFESSOR SMITH IS PURSUING A PH.D. IN COMMUNICATION PHILOSOPHY AT REGENT UNIVERSITY.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A PROSPECTIVE STUDENT WHO MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN MAJORING IN COMMUNICATION?

Communication is so much more than you think it is. Public speaking is a skill, but it is only one very small context within the broader field of communication. If you want to earn a degree in something that is both academic and immediately applicable, then communication is the way to go. It is a unique field in the sense that it is just like reading scripture. If students are active rather than passive, the knowledge they gain can truly be transformative, not just for the students themselves, but for the people they interact with as well.

HOW DO YOU INTEGRATE FAITH INTO THE CLASSROOM AT ETBU?

Faith and teaching go hand-inhand. One of my favorite Christian communication scholars, Quentin Schultze, has this really wonderful quote about how communication is our opportunity to bring a little piece of heaven to earth. It just really struck me that it is incredibly true. Every aspect of learning communication has some sort of deep meaning with God

because communication is communion with God. No matter what context of communication I am teaching, every one of them involves intrapersonal communication, which is your communication with yourself. I like to think that when Paul charges believers to pray without ceasing, one of the things he is really saying is commune with God in your intrapersonal dialogue always. So, that is what I try to bring to my classroom.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN COMMUNICATION?

I remember the summer before I came to ETBU as a student, just praying so earnestly, "God, I know you have something planned for me. I do not know what it is, and I don't want to miss it. Please send someone to tell me what to do." When I attended new student orientation, I was undecided and was just going to make a general freshman-first-semester schedule. But my advisor wanted me to declare my major and suggested communication. I did not know what I would do with speech communication while studying it, but I knew without a shadow of a

doubt that it was what God had planned for me. Really, to answer the question of what inspired me to pursue a career in communication, I do not have a good answer. What I do know is that I was one of those special cases where if God had told me that he was calling me to be a professor, I think I would have laughed. I do not think I would have believed Him. He graciously knew that it would be easier for me to blindly follow than to show me the path He called me to. It is not fun to say I would not have believed God if He told me this. But at the same time, how cool is it that He knew exactly what I needed?

WHAT MAKES THE DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION AT ETBU UNIQUE?

I would definitely say the faithbased worldview, the faith-based perspective. It is almost impossible to teach communication without teaching sanctification, communion, and related things. If communication is going to work, if we are going to be able to bring a little piece of heaven to earth, if we are going to be able to use communication to steward and serve society and culture, we have to do that through humility.

Becoming East Texas Baptist University’s first finalist for the Cliff Harris Award for NCAA Division football, Dominick Williams capped a historic senior season with one of the highest individual honors in college football. As one of six national finalists for the award recognizing the top defensive player in Division III, Williams elevated Tiger Football onto the national stage.

The Houston, Texas, native finished the season with 10.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss, leading the American Southwest Conference (ASC) in both categories. He also ranked second on the team with 72 total tackles and made a significant impact on special teams, blocking multiple PATs and field goal attempts. Nationally, he finished 10th in NCAA Division III in sacks and 17th in tackles for loss.

His dominance throughout the year resulted in an impressive collection of

12 postseason honors. In addition to being named a Cliff Harris Award Finalist, Williams earned Associated Press AllAmerican Second Team and AFCA All-American Second Team recognition. He was named the D3Football.com Region 3 Player of the Year and earned First Team All-Region honors. Williams was also recognized statewide as a member of the NonFBS All-Texas Team and claimed both ASC Defensive Player of the Year and ASC Defensive Lineman of the Year. He earned First Team All-ASC honors, was selected to the D3Football.com Team of the Week in September, and was twice named ASC Defensive Player of the Week.

SERVING THE STUDENT-ATHLETE VOICE | JONES APPOINTED TO DIVISION III SAAC

ETBU junior softball player Kenzie Jones is taking her leadership beyond the field, earning national recognition as the American Southwest

Conference representative on the Division III National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).

Jones, who serves as co-president of SAAC at ETBU, now joins a select group of 43 student-athletes from across the country who act as the national voice for their peers within NCAA Division III. The committee plays a vital role in shaping the studentathlete experience, offering feedback on proposed legislation, engaging directly with NCAA leadership, and participating in governance processes that influence Division III athletics nationwide.

Through regular meetings and collaboration on subcommittees and association-wide initiatives, Division III SAAC members advocate for meaningful change while promoting education and student-athlete well-being. Recently appointed to the mental and physical health subcommittee, Jones is helping lead conversations surrounding one of

WILLIAMS NAMED FINALIST FOR CLIFF HARRIS AWARD

the most important issues facing college athletics today.

In January 2026, Kenzie attended the NCAA Convention in Washington, D.C., where she had the opportunity to connect with athletics administrators from across the country. The experience allowed her to gain insight into national decision-making while representing both ETBU and the American Southwest Conference on a prominent stage.

“Serving on NCAA Division III SAAC has been an incredible opportunity to represent ETBU on a national stage and ensure our student-athletes’ voices are heard,” Jones said. “It has pushed me to lead with pride, knowing I’m carrying my University’s values, work ethic, and culture into every conversation. This experience has helped me grow in confidence, advocacy, and connection while always remembering who I’m representing. I give all the glory to God for putting me in this leadership position and allowing me to serve ETBU with a purpose bigger than myself.”

ETBU BRINGS WOMEN’S FLAG FOOTBALL TO THE HILL

East Texas Baptist University is expanding opportunities for female student-athletes with the addition of women’s flag football, set to debut during the 2026–27 academic year. The new program becomes ETBU’s 29th

intercollegiate athletic team and the University’s 13th women’s sport.

The launch coincides with a conference-wide initiative, as all six American Southwest Conference institutions will sponsor women’s flag football. Conference play will begin in 2027, placing ETBU at the forefront of one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports.

“We are thrilled to bring women’s flag football to ETBU,” said Ryan Erwin, Senior Vice President for Campus Life and Director of Athletics. “This addition advances our commitment to expanding

opportunities for female student-athletes while investing in a sport that is gaining significant momentum at both the collegiate and national levels.”

Women’s flag football has seen a 63 percent increase in participation nationwide over the past five years and is supported by the NFL. The sport will also make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Played as a noncontact sport with seven players per side, flag football combines speed, strategy, and athleticism, with most competition taking place during the spring semester.

ETBU has named alumna Maddie Melton (’24, ’25) as the first head coach in the history of the women’s flag football program.

A member of ETBU’s 2024 NCAA Division III National Championship softball team, Melton earned her Bachelor of Science in Sport Management (’24) and a Master of Science in Kinesiology (’25). She brings a strong background in performance coaching, leadership, and athlete

MEET THE

COACH MADDIE

development. She previously served as a graduate assistant for ETBU Softball and worked as a performance coach specializing in strength and conditioning, speed, and agility training, including time at APEC Sports Performance in Tyler.

“ETBU changed my life as a studentathlete, and I’m honored to help launch a program that will empower the next generation of women,” Melton said. “Being part of building something new, grounded in faith and excellence, is incredibly special.”

MELTON (’24, ’25)

A native of Hallsville, Texas, Melton is a two-time NFCA All-America Scholar Athlete and competed collegiately at both ETBU and the University of Texas at Tyler, earning multiple conference championships and national tournament finishes. Certified in Human Kinetics National Coaching and through the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers, Coach Melton is passionate about building a Christcentered program focused on character, excellence, and opportunity for female student-athletes.

ETBU HONORS 2025 ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

East Texas Baptist University added four new names to its Athletics Hall of Fame during Homecoming Weekend, honoring individuals whose dedication and excellence helped shape Tiger Athletics. The 2025 Hall of Fame Class features former student-athletes Janna (Wilson) Graham (women’s soccer), Aaron Erickson (men’s soccer), and Josiah Jones (baseball), as well as Jace Duke, recognized for his exceptional contributions in athletic training. The induction ceremony honored these Tigers’ lasting contributions to ETBU Athletics and the legacy they helped build.

JACE DUKE

Jace Duke came to East Texas Baptist University from Ore City, Texas, in 1998 as a student athletic trainer. During his time at ETBU, Duke worked with multiple athletic programs, providing hands-on care to student-athletes while also assisting with the accreditation process for the University’s athletic training program.

He served as the student athletic trainer for the women’s basketball team during the 1999–2000 season, helping support a team that finished as NCCAA National Runners-Up. Duke also worked with the men’s soccer team during its run at the 1999 NCCAA National Championship. From 2000 to 2001, he expanded his role by serving as assistant softball coach, contributing to a season in which the Tigers were crowned ASC Champions and advanced to the NCCAA National Championship. In addition, Duke supported ETBU Athletics through the Sports Information Department, serving as a basketball and football statistician at home games.

Duke earned a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from ETBU in 2002 and later completed a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from the University of Texas at Tyler in 2014. He remains actively engaged in his profession as a member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, Southwest Athletic Trainers’ Association, Texas State Athletic Trainers’ Association, and the Greater Houston Athletic Trainers’ Society (GHATS). A seasoned healthcare leader, Duke currently serves as Senior Director of Employer Health Solutions and Athletic Training at Houston Methodist Hospital. With more than 20 years of experience in athletic training and healthcare management, he has played a key role in integrating and directing services for more than 120 athletic trainers across the Houston Methodist system, strengthening both patient care and employee engagement.

In recognition of his service and professional impact, Duke has received numerous honors, including induction into the GHATS Hall of Honor, two GHATS Service Awards, the Bobby Gunn and Tom Wilson Awards for dedicated service, the John Kelly Distinguished Service Award from the Greater Houston Football Coaches’ Association, the Houston Methodist ICARE Award, and multiple leadership appointments on state and regional task forces.

Aaron Erickson began his career with ETBU Men’s Soccer in Fall 2003, playing as a forward for the Tigers. In his four seasons with the Tigers, Erickson scored 41 goals and added 19 assists. He is currently ranked third in the ETBU record books for career scoring and points, as well as fifth in assists.

During his junior season in 2005, Erickson was named the American Southwest Conference Offensive MVP and All-ASC First Team. He earned All-ASC Second Team in 2003 and 2006, and All-ASC Third Team in 2004. He was named ASC Player of the Week twice during his tenure.

Erickson graduated from ETBU with a Bachelor of Science in Education in 2008. Erickson has been coaching high school soccer for 16 years and has a career record of 231-60-33. He has served as the Head Girls’ Soccer Coach for Hallsville High School for the past 11 years, as well as a first-grade teacher at Hallsville East Elementary. He previously served as a supervisor in the gymnasium floor refinishing industry for 20 years.

Janna Wilson Graham arrived at ETBU in the Fall 2003 and quickly established herself as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in Tiger Women’s Soccer history. The Longview, Texas native was a four-year starter at forward, earning All-ASC First Team, ASC AllAcademic honors, and ETBU Offensive MVP accolades in all four seasons.

Graham emerged as a standout in her freshman year, and her success continued throughout her career. During her junior season, she was named ASC Offensive Player of the Year, leading the nation with 28 goals, and earned the Top Tiger Award. As a senior, she received USC Scholar All-American, NSCAA College Division Second Team, and multiple regional and conference honors, along with a second Top Tiger Award. She finished her career with 73 goals, 45 assists, and 191 total points, including 40 goals and 40 assists in ASC play.

Graham earned a Bachelor of Science in Education, with a minor in science, from ETBU in 2007. Janna is a long-time educator and currently teaches at Spring Hill High School, where she has spent 19 years in education. She also coaches youth soccer, continuing her passion for the game and mentoring young athletes.

Fort Worth native Josiah Jones played baseball at ETBU from 2003-2006. During his four-year career with the Tiger Baseball team, he played in 136 games with 441 at-bats, producing 140 RBI and 32 home runs, currently ranking second all-time in the ETBU record books for RBI and third for home runs.

Jones was honored as the American Southwest Conference (ASC) Hitter of the Week three times throughout his career, while gaining national recognition on March 6, 2006, as the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association (NCBWA) National Hitter of the Week. The 2006 season landed Jones on the ASC East Honorable Mention team. In the ETBU record books, Jones ranks 10th in runs scored (121) and 12th in triples (7). Jones had his best season as a junior in 2005, when he hit 13 home runs and 50 RBI in 155 at-bats over 45 games.

In 2007, Jones attended an open tryout for the Kansas City T-Bones, an independent baseball team in the Northern League, where he was invited to spring training and made the opening day roster as the starting left fielder.

Jones graduated from ETBU with a Bachelor of Science in Education in 2006. He currently serves on staff with Armada, a discipleship movement for men in Dallas. Since 2007, Josiah has been in ministry, having previously served on staff at Watermark Community Church in Dallas.

FALL 2025

Anita Hancock Volleyball ’25 AVCA (Honorable Mention)

Lara Hornsby Volleyball ’25 AVCA (Honorable Mention)

Lexi Moody Volleyball ’25 AVCA (Honorable Mention)

Graycee Mosley Volleyball

’25 AVCA (1st team)

’25 CSC Academic (1st team)

Dominick Williams Football

’25 AFCA (2nd team) ’25 AP (2nd team)

History was made in West Texas as East Texas Baptist University captured the 2025 American Southwest Conference Women’s Cross Country Championship for the first time in program history, delivering a dominant performance, securing the victory with three top-five finishes.

“I felt absolutely ecstatic and was so proud watching this women’s team go after what they wanted,” Head Coach Natalie Bach-Prather said. “I knew they could do it, but they had to buy in, dig deep, and show some grit. That is a beautiful thing to see as a coach.

DUNHAM DOMINATES AS ETBU WOMEN CAPTURE FIRST ASC CHAMPIONSHIP

Athletes who are bought in and become fierce competitors.”

Leading the charge was senior Phoebe Dunham, who claimed the ASC Individual Championship with a commanding run in the 6K, crossing the finish line in 23:09.83, nearly 40 seconds ahead of the runnerup.

“Phoebe is someone every Coach hopes to work with,” Bach-Prather said. “She is as competitive as they get, but she is also loyal and all in for the benefit of the whole: the whole team, the whole program, the whole school. Phoebe is selfless, confident, and fantastic at getting the team as excited as she is. She won because she has bought into every single thing that goes into becoming a successful athlete: managing school, work, workouts, sleep, stress, and nutrition. It is rare to see someone truly go all in, in every area, and she has

done this well. Phoebe is a great role model for the other girls and inspires others to work just as hard.”

ETBU secured the team title with 33 points, finishing ahead of Mary Hardin-Baylor with 44 points. Alongside Dunham’s first-place finish, Danna Requena earned third place with a time of 24:33.64, while Hannah Willis followed closely in fourth (24:39.72). All three earned All-ASC First Team honors.

ETBU’s depth proved equally impressive. Mary Kate Mark finished 12th (27:05.38), Megan Smith placed 13th (27:17.80), and Ruquayya Soudine came in 14th (27:30.44), each earning All-ASC Second Team recognition. Additional strong performances came from Mallory Frederick (16th, 27:59.16), Izabella Ball (17th, 28:35.11), Evangeline Wilson (18th, 28:53.13), and Sophie Gaddy (19th, 29:13.92), rounding out a complete team effort.

With the conference title secured, ETBU moved on to the NCAA Division III West Regional in California, where the team placed 20th. Dunham was the Tigers’ top finisher in 64th place.

ZARATE CLAIMS ASC CHAMPIONSHIP AND FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR

ETBU freshman Noah Zarate delivered a standout performance at the 2025 American Southwest Conference Cross Country Championship, capturing the ASC Individual Championship and leading the Tigers to a third-place finish at the conference meet.

“Noah is a special athlete, and one of whom I think we are going to see some big things these next few years,” Head Coach Natalie Back-Prather said. “He is an incredibly hard worker, and very coachable, and always has a great attitude.”

Zarate’s victory marked a milestone for the program, as he became just the second men’s cross country runner in

ETBU history to claim an individual ASC title, joining Mack Broussard, who earned the honor in 2018. The championship capped an exceptional debut season for Zarate, who was also named ASC Freshman of the Year and earned All-ASC First Team recognition.

The Tigers’ success extended beyond Zarate’s historic run. Jagger Stutchman was recognized as the ASC Sportsmanship Athlete of the Year and joined Zarate on the All-ASC First Team. Tyler Jordan added to ETBU’s strong showing with selection to the All-ASC Second Team.

Zarate ran a 26:31.47 in the 8K, finishing eight seconds better than Hardin-Simmons’ Noah Bela for the championship. Stutchman came in

ETBU CROSS COUNTRY COACHING STAFF NAMED

After leading the Tigers to a historic season, Head Coach Natalie Bach-Prather (’08) and Assistant Coach

Caster Brandon (’24) were named the American Southwest Conference (ASC) Women’s Cross Country Coaching Staff of the Year. Under their leadership, the Tigers delivered a standout performance,

seventh place with a time of 27:55.75 and Jordan was 12th with a 29:13.22 to round out the All-ASC runners. Tommy Alford finished in 16th at 30:32.98 as Conrad Deleon was 19th (31:22.21) and Lucas Gonzalez was 20th (34:34.61).

“Our upperclassmen really stepped up and brought leadership to the team while our freshmen brought new energy and contagious excitement,” Bach-Prather said. “It was cool to see a brotherhood form this year in an environment where everyone was pushing each other, performing at their best, and excited to see each other succeed.”

claiming their first ASC title. The 2025 season elevated the program and showcased the team’s growth, dedication, and discipline. The honor recognizes the coaching staff’s commitment to their student-athletes and their leadership during one of the most successful seasons in program history.

Faith in Every Step

ETBU CROSS COUNTRY AND TRACK & FIELD BLENDS SPORT AND SERVICE IN BELIZE

The athletes on ETBU’s Cross Country and Track & Field teams had gone on many runs before, but never like this. ETBU athletes ran alongside people of all ages on the streets of Belize, and every step was filled with joy as new friendships were formed. The streets were shining with a multitude of colors from glow sticks worn as necklaces, bracelets, and crowns by Belizeans and Texans alike, with the red, white, and blue lights of police cars guiding their way. This was just the beginning of a meaningful week full of serving and sharing the love of Jesus with the communities of Belize.

The ETBU Cross Country and Track & Field teams spent January 1-7 in Belize as part of ETBU’s Tiger Athletic Mission Experience (TAME), where they partnered with International Sports Federation and THREE18 Ministries for outreach and service over the week. This is the 25th trip for the ETBU Athletic Department TAME initiative and the second for the Tiger Cross Country and Track & Field program; the program traveled to Greece in 2019.

The team’s first full day in Belize began with intensive preparations for the week ahead. The teams spent time creating skits, dances, and crafts to share with the Belize community. In the evening, the Tigers hosted a local 5K with the community of Belmopan. Over 200 Belizeans joined in on the 5K glow run, which gave ETBU Cross Country and Track & Field the opportunity to share laughter and stories with locals. There were food trucks, face painting, balloons, and music.

The following day, Sunday, the teams served at a church in the Mayapan community where they led worship, gave testimonies, and held a Vacation Bible School for the local children. In the afternoon, they had the chance to visit the local Mayan ruins and immerse themselves in some of Belize’s history. That evening, they were a part of Jesus Night, a worship night for the local community. Jesus Night was a powerful night of lives changed for both Belizeans and the ETBU Cross Country and Track & Field teams.

“Sunday was a meaningful and joy-filled day,” graduate student Ache’ Anderson said. “We attended the church service and spent time doing activities with the kids while some of our team shared their testimonies, which was both fun and rewarding. Visiting the Mayan ruins was beautiful and awe-inspiring. The day ended with Jesus Night, which was filled with music, joy, and sharing our faith together.”

On Monday, the teams went to a local high school to experience a chapel service and pray with the students. Afterward, they were able to give back to the community through physical labor at another local school. The 40 athletes were split into two groups; one group served by painting several of the building exteriors, and the other worked to remove rocks and clear a spot to be used by the school. The day ended with a worship night for local teens and college students at La Paz, a THREE18 Ministries camp for volunteers in Belize.

“Monday was a great experience to see a local high school and how they worship,” sophomore PJ Johnson said. “It was cool to do a skit for them and see their laughs and smiles. We ended the night with a community worship

gathering, worshiping the Lord in English and in their native language.”

Tuesday was filled with connections to Belizeans of all ages. The teams visited a local pre-school and engaged with the children through craft-making, playing games, and praying with and for the kids. In the afternoon, ETBU hosted a youth track camp where they ran relays, warmed up as a group, had one-on-one time, and raced with the kids. That night, the teams had an open mic worship where they sang and shared testimonies with each other alongside people in the Belmopan community.

“We were able to connect through our sport and our God-given talents,” freshman Sophie Gaddy said. “I personally was able to see how God works through people and how His voice can carry through the people we meet. We are not that different and have a lot of similar stories. That was cool to see as we shared different stories from our lives and cultures as we were all united through a common belief and love for God, which was inspiring.”

Wednesday, January 6, was the last full day of ministry for ETBU’s Cross Country and Track & Field teams. They hosted another track camp with more students, attended another chapel, and had a worship night where more ETBU student-athletes shared their testimonies and got to pray with many of the local teenagers. ETBU Cross Country and Track & Field Head Coach Natalie BachPrather reflected on the opportunity to lead her teams in service to the Belize communities, saying that she saw more change in her teams than ever before.

“We have athletes at different levels in their spiritual walk,” Coach Bach-Prather said. “There were some athletes who really grew, and you could tell that this trip changed their lives forever. Some of the more mature in their faith opened up and pulled some of the others along. Some athletes had the vulnerability to

“We are not that different and have a lot of similar stories. That was cool to see as we shared different stories from our lives and cultures as we were all united through a common belief and love for God, which was inspiring.”

-Sophie Gaddy

say, ‘I do not really know where I am at, but this trip is making me think about it.’ It was really heartwarming.”

Before the long travel days ahead, the teams were able to explore more of Belize, including tubing in caves used by the Mayans, ziplining through the jungle, and swimming in the largest natural spring in Belize. The teams returned on January 8, and Coach Bach-Prather said that she is eager to see how the trip will impact team dynamics.

“I am really excited because the biggest challenge now is going to get the 40 student-athletes we took to get that energy with the 35 we left behind,” Coach Bach-Prather said. “We have some ways that we are going to implement it, but the excitement of those that we took is so profound that I think it’s just going to automatically run off onto the others. I’m looking forward to seeing what it’s going to do, what impact it’s going to have on our teams.”

WBuilt for History

hat East Texas Baptist University accomplished during the 2025 season will be remembered long after the final point was played.

ETBU finished the season at 34-1, winning a program-record 34 consecutive matches and setting new standards for victories in a single season. Along the way, the Tigers captured their first-ever No. 1 national ranking, claimed a third straight American Southwest Conference Tournament Championship, secured a second consecutive outright ASC regular season title, and earned the program’s first NCAA Regional Championship.

“Winning 34 games in a row shows the work and discipline that these girls have created in this program,” Head Volleyball Coach Mallory Matthews said. “We played a very hard strength of schedule this season, and there could have been many games they could have backed down, but they never let that be an option. Over the past four years, these girls have worked to build a culture of love, discipline, and determination, and they have shown it by winning 34 games in a row.”

The Tigers’ historic run came to an end in the NCAA Division III National Championship Tournament Elite Eight, falling to No. 8 Berry College. While the season concluded on the national stage, the legacy of ETBU volleyball’s finest year was firmly cemented.

“What I will remember the most about this team is how much joy they had and their love for the Lord,” Matthews said. “They truly spent every practice, game, discipleship, community service event, and team event like it was their last and gave it their all. They loved to have fun but knew how to push each other and hold each other accountable to the highest standard.”

The Tigers’ postseason journey included a defining moment in Medford, Massachusetts, where ETBU defeated host No. 14 Tufts University to win the

ETBU VOLLEYBALL’S 34-WIN SEASON TO REMEMBER

NCAA Division III Medford Regional Tournament. The four-set victory sent the No. 1 Tigers to their first NCAA National Championship Tournament appearance with a perfect 34-0 record.

“Winning the NCAA Regional Championship for the first time was monumental for our program,” Matthews said. “That moment represented so much to our program because it showed that when you truly rely on the Lord and give it all to Him, along with hard work and dedication, amazing things can happen. In the previous two seasons, we had reached the round of 32, and our team was hungry for more. Getting through that roadblock showed this program and these athletes that the sky is the limit and that they have put themselves on the map nationally. For our program, this puts us at new heights, with higher expectations, and I am so excited about that for the future. We now have the experience of winning a NCAA Regional Championship, which helps so much if we are put in that situation again.”

That regional championship also produced milestone performances. Senior Graycee Mosley etched her name atop the program record book, breaking the all-time kills record with her 2,020th career kill, surpassing Arden Tunnell’s long-standing mark. Anita Hancock reached a benchmark of her own with the 300th block of her career, climbing to fifth on ETBU’s all-time blocks list. Mosley was named the Regional Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, while Hancock and Lara Hornsby earned All-Tournament Team honors.

Earlier in the postseason, ETBU captured its third consecutive ASC Tournament Championship with a sweep of Hardin-Simmons University, matching the program’s longest championship streak set from 2001 to 2003. Mosley earned ASC Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors for the second time in her career, while seniors Lexi

Moody and Callie Humphrey also earned All-Tournament recognition.

Individual accolades poured in as the season unfolded. Mosley capped her career by earning the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic AllAmerica Team Member of the Year honor for NCAA Division III, recognizing her excellence both on the court and in the classroom. Mosley earned her fourth consecutive All-America selection and was named to the First Team. She was joined on the All-America list by Moody, Hancock, and Hornsby, marking the first All-America honors for all three.

“Our seniors had incredible leadership,” Matthews added. “They knew how to hold our team to the highest standard and pushed our team not only on the court but in their faith. When you have genuine people on your team who truly care about their teammates, special things can happen. Our seniors always put the team first, and the classes under them knew that and respected them so much for that.”

The Tigers also made history at the regional level, earning seven AVCA Region 10 awards, the most in program history. Mosley, Hancock, Hornsby, Moody, and Humphrey were all recognized, with Hornsby named Region 10 Freshman of the Year. ETBU Head Coach Mallory Matthews was named both Region 10 Coach of the Year and AVCA National Coach of the Year, guiding ETBU to the most successful season the program has ever seen.

Under Matthews’ leadership, ETBU not only tied the program’s record for consecutive conference championships but also reached new heights nationally, achieving the No. 1 ranking in both the AVCA Poll and NPI for the first time in program history. By season’s end, ETBU earned a final No. 5 ranking in the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) Poll, closing the year with 1,817 points. The Tigers spent the majority of the season among the nation’s elite,

ASC REGULAR SEASON & TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS

BEST RECORD IN PROGRAM HISTORY 34-1

NO. 5

IN FINAL AVCA POLL

ASC TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS

ELITE EIGHT APPEARANCE 1st

NATIONAL RANKING FIRST-EVER

34 MATCH WIN STREAK

8-0 UNDEFEATED IN ASC PLAY

4 ALL-AMERICANS

ranking in the top five since week three and holding the No. 1 ranking beginning in week 11. ETBU defeated five Top 25 teams, maintained the No. 1 NPI throughout the season, and became the only undefeated program in NCAA Division III at the time they reached the nation’s top ranking.

“My faith is something I have relied on so much my whole life, but especially

since leading this program for the past four years,” Matthews said. “ETBU shaped and molded me as a studentathlete years ago and still continues to do so as a staff member. I prayed at the beginning of this season, before the girls arrived on campus, that all I wanted out of this season was for God to be glorified through our play and for all of my team to have a deep-rooted relationship with

Christ by the end of it. We focused on building relationships with the girls while also helping them cultivate relationships with one another to further each girl’s relationship with Christ. Whether we win or lose, we know there is a greater purpose, and we were given these abilities for a reason, to help build the Kingdom.”

MATTHEWS NAMED NATIONAL COACH OF THE YEAR

Guiding East Texas Baptist University to the finest season in program history, head volleyball coach Mallory Matthews was named the 2025 American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) National Coach of the Year. The Tigers enjoyed a historic 34–1 campaign and a year of firsts.

Under Matthews’ leadership, ETBU captured its third straight American Southwest Conference Tournament Championship, rose to the No. 1 national ranking for the first time in program history, tallied a 34-match win streak and shattered multiple program records. The Tigers also secured both the program’s and the ASC’s first-ever NCAA Division III Regional Tournament championship, firmly placing ETBU on the national stage.

Since returning to her alma mater as the head volleyball coach in December 2021, Matthews has steadily elevated the volleyball program, guiding ETBU to three consecutive ASC Tournament titles and NCAA Tournament appearances while building one of the nation’s most consistent programs. This season, the Tigers reached unprecedented heights, posting program-best marks in wins, consecutive victories, and home winning streaks while earning wins over numerous nationally ranked opponents.

With four AVCA All-Americans and continued national recognition, Matthews’ influence has set a new standard for ETBU Volleyball and solidified one of the most remarkable seasons in program history.

“What I will remember the most about this team is how much joy they had and their love for the Lord. ” -Mallory Matthews

Fueled by Pressure

GRAYCEE MOSLEY LEAVES A HISTORIC LEGACY AT ETBU

Pressure does not rattle Graycee Mosley, it fuels her. She embraces competition, chases challenges, and refuses to settle for anything less than her best. That drive has defined her time on the court, in the classroom, and in every corner of her life. When Mosley graduated from ETBU in December 2025 with a degree in biochemistry, she did so as the most decorated volleyball student-athlete in program history.

“I like pressure, honestly,” Mosley said. “I love the competitive feeling, even if it’s just with myself. I like knowing I have to go kill it at practice and then go study later. I’ve always been a competitor. I could never settle for something that wasn’t challenging.”

This season, Mosley became ETBU’s all-time career kills leader with 2,032 kills. She was named an AVCA First Team All-American, NCAA Medford Regional Tournament Most Outstanding Player, ASC Tournament MVP, and ASC Player of the Year. Nationally, she finished fourth in total kills (532), 10th in kills per set (4.59), and 16th in total attacks (1,236). She earned eight ASC Player of the Week honors, was selected AVCA National Player of the Week, named AVCA All-Region First Team, and earned All-ASC First Team recognition.

Mosley helped anchor the most remarkable season in ETBU Volleyball history, as the Tigers went 34-1 and redefined the program’s standard of excellence. Along the way, they captured a third straight ASC Tournament Championship, rose to their first-ever No. 1 national ranking, and secured the program’s first NCAA Division III Regional title. Their run carried them to the Elite Eight, fueled by a record-setting 34-match winning streak.

Her dominance also extended well beyond the court.

Mosley was named the Elite ScholarAthlete Award winner for NCAA Division III Volleyball at the National Championship Tournament banquet. The NCAA Elite Scholar-Athlete honors the student-athlete with the highest cumulative GPA at the finals site for each of the 90+ NCAA championships. Open to sophomores or above with at least two years at their institution, this award highlights exceptional academic and athletic achievement at the highest Division III level.

“The Elite 90 Award really represents more than just me,” Mosley said. “It shows the impact everyone on campus had on my journey. My professors, coaches, and teammates all play a role in my future. That award encompasses what it means to be an elite studentathlete. I could not have received it without the support I had across campus.”

student-athlete for combined excellence on the court and in the classroom. Mosley becomes the first volleyball studentathlete from the American Southwest Conference (ASC) to receive the honor and just the second student-athlete in ETBU history to earn the distinction. She made the President’s List all four years, was a member of Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, graduated summa cum laude, and was named the Outstanding Graduating Senior for the ETBU Chemistry Department.

Over her four-year career, Mosley leaves as one of the most accomplished student-athletes in conference history. She is a four-time AVCA All-American and All-Region First Team selection,

Earning the highest academic honor in NCAA Division III volleyball, Mosley was named the 2025 College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic AllAmerica Team Member of the Year. The award recognizes the nation’s top

history. She won two ASC Tournament MVP awards and holds the conference record for most career Player of the Week honors across any sport with 20. She is also a two-time ASC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete (volleyball and track and field) and a four-time ASC All-Academic selection.

“Everything I’ve achieved, every personal award and every team honor, belongs just as much to my coaches and teammates as it does to me. There’s no way I reach 2,000 career kills or break a record without the people I played with all four years.”

earning Second Team All-American honors in 2024 and First Team AllAmerican honors in 2025. A three-time CSC Academic All-American (First Team in 2024 and 2025), she is the only fourtime ASC Player of the Year in league

“Everything I’ve achieved, every personal award and every team honor, belongs just as much to my coaches and teammates as it does to me,” Mosley said. “There’s no way I reach 2,000 career kills or break a record without the people I played with all four years. It truly feels like those milestones belonged to every team I was part of. When I think about leaving ETBU, what makes me emotional is the relationships. I loved every teammate I played with, and our coaches did such a great job building that bond between all of us. That’s what made it so special.”

The four-year starter led ETBU to three ASC Tournament Championships, three NCAA Tournament appearances, and one NCAA Regional Championship.

“Graycee’s impact on our team will go far beyond her years playing for ETBU Volleyball,” ETBU Head Volleyball Coach Mallory Matthews said. “She was driven, motivating, and genuine with a team-

first mentality and taught so many of her teammates to do the same. She put in time on her own outside of required practice time each day, pushing her teammates to do the same, which has become a standard now and will help our program for years to come. She was able to be disciplined not only on the court but also in the classroom, earning a perfect 4.0 as a biochemistry major, and she encouraged her teammates to have those same qualities. She was someone who could push her team through and build their mental toughness.”

Off the court, Mosley devoted her time to service throughout Marshall and beyond. She volunteered at Marshall ISD’s Fall Festival and Morning High Fives, served as a PE teacher volunteer, and read at local elementary schools. She assisted with Longview’s New Beginnings Baptist Church Back-toSchool Bash and For the City Project, volunteered with Mission Marshall, the Boys and Girls Club, ETBU Serve Day, and Special Needs nights for volleyball, participated in Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine, and served as a pen pal for Compassion International.

When Graycee was asked about her favorite memory at ETBU, she said winning the regional championship was a huge milestone, but the team’s Tiger Athletic Mission Experience (TAME) trip to Chile in 2024 was her favorite memory.

“I think our trip to Chile was the most impactful and meaningful moment of my time at ETBU,” Mosley said. “It strengthened our relationships with each other and with God, and it truly changed our team. Even now, most of our team didn’t go to Chile, but the culture shifted

so much after that experience. It’s been passed down to each new group of girls who come in. That bond and that culture have remained, and that’s what makes it so special. In Chile, we were put into prayer groups with people who didn’t even speak English, and we just had to pray. That’s something I would have never felt comfortable doing before. But it came so naturally, and when we got back, I realized it wasn’t as scary as I thought.”

The culture forged in moments like the TAME trip became part of the legacy Graycee helped build, one that will continue long after she leaves campus. And as she looks ahead to new challenges and pressure she might face, Mosley knows those same experiences prepared her for the future.

“My time at ETBU has completely equipped me for my next chapter. My faith and walk with the Lord have been strengthened so much. Volleyball helped me to step into leadership and communication roles in ways I never had before. ETBU stretched me as a student, athlete, and Christian, which prepared me for the future.”

CAREER AWARDS

• CSC Academic All-American of the Year (2025)

• CSC Academic All-American First Team (2025)

• CSC Academic All-American Second Team (2024)

• CSC Academic All-District (2023, 2024, 2025)

• NCAA Volleyball Division III Elite ScholarAthlete Award Winner (2025)

• NCAA Medford Regional Tournament Most Outstanding Player (2025)

• NCAA Medford (MA) Regional All-Tournament Team (2025)

• NCAA Newport News (VA) Regional All-Tournament Team (2024)

• NCAA Oshkosh (WI) Regional All-Tournament Team (2023)

• AVCA All-American First Team (2025)

• AVCA All-American Second Team (2024)

• AVCA All-American Honorable Mention (2022, 2023)

• AVCA All-Region First Team (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)

• AVCA National Player of the Week (Oct. 7, 2025)

• ASC MVP (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)

– only ASC VB player to win four MVPs

• ASC Tournament MVP (2023, 2025)

• ASC All-Tournament (2023, 2024, 2025)

• All-ASC First Team (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025)

• ASC Freshman of the Year (2022)

• ASC Newcomer of the Year (2022)

• ASC Player of the Week (20 times) – most of any ASC Athlete

• ASC All-Academic (2023, 2024, 2025)

• ASC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete Winner – VB (2025)

• ASC Distinguished Scholar-Athlete Winner – T&F (2023)

• Pikes Peak Challenge All-Tournament Team and Tournament MVP (2025)

• ETBU Tiger Invite AllTournament Team and Tournament MVP (2025)

• Trinity University All-Classic Team and Tournament MVP (2025)

• Trinity University All-Classic Team (2024)

ETBU Tiger Invite All-Tournament Team (2024)

Cal Lu Fornia Invite Team (2024) UST All-Tournament Team – MVP (2022)

Hendrix College All-Tournament Team

– MVP (2022)

East Texas Baptist University’s Beach Volleyball team was able to sport t-shirts and shorts in December, but not because of a typical Texas heatwave. The team spent a week of their Christmas break 1,300 miles away on the beaches of Roatan, Honduras, and while there, they did not just serve volleyballs. They served the local community through gifts, games, and God’s love.

From December 7-14, East Texas Baptist University’s Beach Volleyball team blended their passion for beach volleyball with their passion for serving others during the Tiger Athletic Mission Experience (TAME). They partnered with International Sports Federation (ISF) and Roatan Mission Fellowship for ministry and meaningful connections in Central America. This was the 24th trip for the ETBU Athletic Department TAME initiative and the first for ETBU Beach Volleyball.

The team departed from Marshall early on December 7, and after experiencing multiple delays, arrived in Roatan 42 hours, a hotel, and three flights later.

Set Serve Share

TIGER BEACH VOLLEYBALL TRADES IN CHRISTMAS BREAK FOR MINISTRY IN HONDURAS

When they arrived at the home of their host family, they were greeted with friendly faces, dinner, s’mores, and fresh coconuts.

“Through all the chaos of traveling, it was exciting to watch the Lord force us to slow down and be patient and wait on His timing,” sophomore Sierra Wendt said. “When things could have caused us to lose joy or excitement, we spent the time having team Bible studies and fellowship. Never once did the team lose fire for the Lord or eagerness to share His Word.”

The first full day in Roatan began with a traditional Honduran breakfast before starting their beach volleyball camp for the local children. The 50 children, ranging from ages six to 17, who attended the camp enjoyed playing games, learning about beach volleyball, and listening to devotionals about trusting in Jesus. After a break for lunch, the team started their afternoon volleyball camp session with another group of children.

“The most meaningful aspect of the trip was getting to watch my team love on the kids in Roatan,” Head ETBU Beach Volleyball Coach Allison Kuster said. “The girls didn’t let the language barrier hold them back at all. They found ways to communicate and show the love of Jesus through all of their actions. They had a contagious joy about them all week, and took every opportunity they had to tell others about Jesus.”

On the second full day, the children began to open up to the team. The morning group asked four of the leaders to share their testimonies because they wanted to understand their belief in God. The afternoon group knew a lot about volleyball and wanted to compete with the team.

“Despite the language barrier, it was evident that God’s love knows no barrier,” freshman Emmaley Matz said. “For our group devotional, we discussed the story of Jesus calming the storm. After sharing trials where we felt God in our own lives, the kids shared their own stories. It was amazing to hear how God has worked in their lives and how important it is to have trust and faith in God’s plan.”

The beach volleyball team’s third day in Roatan included a Christmas celebration with the local children who live and work near the landfill. The children and

“Despite the language barrier, it was evident that God’s love knows no barrier”

-Emmaley

their families earn money by picking through acres of garbage to find plastic, cans, and metal to sell for a few dollars. In 2025, Roatan Mission Fellowship was able to send 180 children living near the landfill to school with everything they needed, including school uniforms and supplies. The team handed out Christmas presents to these children and spread Christ’s love through many hugs and gifts. That afternoon, the team visited a woman named Crystal, who fosters 22 children and is connected to Roatan Mission Fellowship.

On their final day in Roatan, the beach volleyball team had another session of playing volleyball with local children and young adults. After lunch, the team served at one of Roatan Mission Fellowship’s recommended partner ministries called Little Sprouts, which offers spiritual, medical, and food support to the neediest families in and around Roatan’s largest city. The team donated soccer balls and volleyballs to the ministry, and immediately started playing with the children. After a time of play, they participated in small groups of intentional conversation with the local children and their mothers. The team gave cookies, apples, and big hugs to everyone at Little Sprouts before they ended their time of service in Honduras.

“As soon as our bus pulled onto the gravel road in front of their building, the kids swarmed our bus with smiles and waves,” sophomore Paige Dickson said.

“As each one of us stepped off the bus, we couldn’t even get down the stairs before we were greeted with massive hugs. The kids had huge smiles, and there were so many giggles and voices flooding the yard. Everyone was happy and relaxed, and all the kids felt seen and safe. They jumped into our arms, and we held them and talked with them as long as we could.”

Matz

Before the long travel days ahead, the team took a mangrove tree boat tour and went snorkeling at sunset to close the trip before they traveled home. Kuster reflected on the experience and expressed her great pride in her team during their week in Roatan.

“Before we left, they all came up with individual goals that they wanted to meet while we were there,” Kuster said. “Some of the goals included getting outside their comfort zone, praying for a stranger, and asking someone if they know Jesus. Every single one of my girls met their goals and more. I’ve never seen a team more on fire for the Lord and wanting to share their faith with everyone they meet. As a coach, that’s one of the most incredible things you could ever ask for.”

Miracle in Motion

SENIOR FOOTBALL PLAYER CONNOR GILLESPIE’S SEASON OF RESILIENCE

When senior football player Connor Gillespie stepped onto the turf in August for preseason practice, it just felt different. He has loved football since he could first hold a ball, following in his father’s footsteps by playing in college. When cancer struck in his junior year, it seemed that his time playing football might come to an end. Through faith, the support from his family and friends, and sheer determination, Connor returned to the field as a senior, a miracle in motion, each snap a celebration of life, resilience, and the dreams he never gave up.

Connor really struggled his junior year; a torn MCL in the fall of 2024, just two games into the season, put him on the sidelines. Though he tried to play through the pain, after consulting with the athletic training staff and team doctors, it was decided he would miss the final three games of the season.

The San Antonio native worked hard and began getting back into playing shape in December 2024, ready for offseason workouts and to shift his focus to senior year. However, before a family ski trip to Breckenridge, Colorado, over Christmas break, Gillespie began experiencing back pain.

“My dad had booked a trip to Breckenridge, Colorado. I was really excited; it felt like a fresh start. But the night before we left, I woke up with this intense pain in my lower back. I couldn’t sleep, and that says a lot because I’ve played through serious injuries before. I figured I’d push through it as any athlete would. I took some pain medicine and went on the trip. But once we got to Colorado, the pain was still unbearable. I knew something was wrong. I was throwing up, and it felt way beyond a pulled muscle or pinched nerve.”

Connor went to urgent care in

Colorado, where they diagnosed him with a kidney stone. When he returned home, he still wasn’t feeling well and decided to go to the local urgent care.

“As soon as I got home, I went to Fossil Creek Urgent Care. They ran a scan, and when the results took a long time to come back, I knew something wasn’t right. They hooked me up to an IV, and I was there alone when the doctor came in, shut the door, sat down, and put his hand on my leg. He told me there was an ambulance waiting and that I had a massive, softball-sized tumor on my kidney. In that moment, everything went quiet. People ask what it’s like to hear something like that, and it’s hard to describe; it didn’t feel real. My first thoughts weren’t even about cancer; I was asking myself, ‘Can I play next year? Can I go back to school?”

After composing himself, Connor called his mom, who met him at the urgent care and went with him to the hospital, where they ran more tests and scans.

“I spent my entire Christmas break going through scan after scan and biopsy after biopsy. That’s when I was connected with my medical team, my oncologist, and my renal surgeon at UT Health. They told me, ‘We’re going to figure this out, but while we do, try to live as normally as you can.’”

For Connor, normal meant coming back to ETBU for the spring semester, going to class, hanging out with friends, and lifting weights. But everyday life wasn’t the same with the thoughts of cancer in the back of his mind.

“I tried to make jokes and act like myself, but people could tell something was wrong. It was a dark time. I felt incredibly alone.”

At the end of January, Gillespie went home for an appointment with his

medical team. Unfortunately, the news was not positive. The cancer had spread to his lymph nodes, lungs, and throughout his abdomen. It was Stage III kidney cancer.

“The doctors told me it was very treatable, but the treatment was going to be brutal. I couldn’t go back to school. I was starting chemotherapy.”

Connor underwent an aggressive chemotherapy regimen following his diagnosis. His treatment included three rounds of chemotherapy, each requiring five consecutive days in the hospital with two weeks of recovery in between. Over the course of his treatment, he received a total of 76 bags of chemotherapy.

The regimen, known as BEP, is among the earliest chemotherapy regimens, first developed in the 1970s. The treatment is notoriously hard on the body, designed to attack cancer cells but often leaving patients physically exhausted in the process.

“Chemo was brutal. There were days I

couldn’t walk, and my dad had to help me into the hospital because the distance was too much. I cried a lot. I had always seen myself as strong, the tough one. That’s how I was raised.

But needing my parents to carry me, to move me, was humbling in a way I wasn’t prepared for. I lost my hair and lung function, and I had a PICC line inserted from my shoulder all the way to my heart to deliver the chemo. I was giving myself blood thinner injections, taking countless pills and heavy pain medications, the cabinet was full of pill bottles.”

By the end of his second round of chemotherapy, the results were already showing significant improvement. His numbers began to stabilize, clear evidence that the treatment was working and aggressively destroying the cancer. While the process took a severe physical toll, it proved effective.

“I leaned heavily on prayer, on reading Scripture, and on the people around me who were praying for me: my

“I leaned heavily on prayer, on reading Scripture, and on the people around me who were praying for me: my family, my coaches, my teammates and friends at ETBU, and friends from high school.”

family, my coaches, my teammates and friends at ETBU, and friends from high school,” Gillespie said. “I spent a lot of time reading the Bible and trying to understand how those stories applied to what I was going through.”

Surgery was still ahead. It was scheduled for April 17, the next significant step in his treatment and recovery. Even in the midst of chemotherapy, Connor made efforts to stay connected to campus and his coursework. He returned a few times to turn in assignments and collect personal belongings, trying to maintain a sense of normalcy. When he felt up to it, he joined a class on Zoom.

Connor was determined to return to ETBU for his senior year. “I made myself a promise. If I survived this, I was coming back to play. I promised my teammate, Nate Morris, that I would be back for our senior year. I set up a summer job, got everything in place for the next year, and spent time with friends before surgery. I knew the next chapter was going to be a fight.”

The fight started with Connor’s surgery on April 17. The procedure lasted approximately 14 hours. During the operation, surgeons removed extensive lymph nodes and addressed all remaining cancer residue. By that point, the tumor

was no longer active, but the damage remained. Doctors attempted to save the kidney where the tumor had been located, but were ultimately unable to do so, and the kidney was removed. Connor also learned he had lost some of his lung function as a result of chemotherapy. But the surgery was successful, and he was cancer-free.

When he woke up, the reality of the surgery hit all at once. He was on a ventilator, breathing with the assistance of a machine while his lungs began to function again. Connor spent the following week in the ICU as his body slowly recovered. His organs began functioning again one by one. It was a painful and challenging process. By the end of the six weeks, Connor felt ready to begin rebuilding. He spent additional time at home easing back into light workouts and daily routines before returning to campus. That summer, he remained in Marshall, training and focusing on recovery, determined to move forward and reclaim his life.

“My relationship with God definitely grew stronger during that time,” Gillespie said. “I knew I was going to be okay because I trusted that God was with me and would take care of me. Honestly, I don’t think I could have handled it mentally without my faith.”

June 1 started a new chapter for Connor Gillespie, getting back to living. “Football mattered, but it wasn’t the only thing. Life itself motivated me. Football was part of that, but more than anything, I wanted to get back to living.”

As his body healed, Connor was confronted with what life looked like after cancer, learning how to rebuild strength, redefine normal, and trust that the same perseverance that carried him through treatment would guide him through what came next. “I’ve always seen myself as tough, the kind of person who pushes through anything. That mindset helped me get through cancer itself. But coming back afterward, after losing a kidney and part of my lung function, was different. You have to learn how to live again.”

In August, Connor fulfilled the promise he made to himself and to teammate Nate Morris when he stepped back onto the turf at Ornelas Stadium for preseason practice. Just months removed from chemotherapy and surgery, the moment was more than a return to football; it was a reclaiming of something he once feared was gone forever.

“My first game back meant everything to me. I didn’t know if I would ever play again. I honestly thought my last game had already happened. Being back out there, I cried. I couldn’t believe it.”

As the season unfolded, even the routines he once took for granted took on new meaning. “Every little thing feels special now, whether it is late-night meetings, practices, or things I used to complain about. I’m happy to do all of it.”

Some of the most meaningful moments came not from the scoreboard, but from who was beside him as he shared the field with his younger brother, sophomore Grant Gillespie, for one final year. “Playing next to my brother was one of the most meaningful moments. We barely got that chance in high school, and being on the field together now is something I’ll always hold onto.”

What Connor carried with him by season’s end became less about wins and losses and more about perspective. The game that once defined Connor now served as a reminder of what he had overcome and how much he still had to give, both on and off the field.

“So many things we stress about every day are insignificant compared to what can actually happen. Before, a bad grade or a breakup could ruin my week,” Gillespie said. “But when you’re faced with something that could take your life, everything shifts. You start to slow down. You take a breath. You look around and realize how much there is to be grateful for. Days aren’t promised.”

ETBU & B. H. CARROLL Called Beyond Circumstance

A STORY OF FAITH, FAMILY SACRIFICE, AND GOD’S PROVISION

As B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary doctoral student Arcadis Solano Silvera stepped onto the stage to receive his degree, the moment represented far more than an academic milestone. It marked the culmination of a journey shaped by unexpected turns, unwavering determination, and God’s provision. For Silvera, a Cuban refugee now living in Miami, Florida, this diploma was nothing short of a miracle, the tangible result of a path he believes was carved out by God.

In 2009, Silvera was serving as a pastor in Cuba with the Eastern Cuban Baptist Convention. He had been serving as a pastor for 10 years and had heard about the B. H. Carroll program in Camaguey, the central province on the island. Arcadis got his first taste of theology during his master’s degree work. He immersed himself in learning all he could throughout the program and, after earning a Master of Arts in Theology, Scripture Witness, was challenged by Carroll Seminary’s founder, Dr. Bruce Corley. Dr. Corley hoped to have one of the master’s program students in Cuba complete their doctorate. Arcadis felt a tug at his heart. He knew he was that student.

“I went to Dr. Corley and asked him, ‘Dr. Corley, can I be part of this? I would like to be part of this,’” Silvera said. “And

“I stand here representing Cuba—many pastors and professors who desire this kind of education but cannot afford it.”

he asked me, ‘How do you see yourself in the next few years? Do you see yourself as a seminary doctoral graduate?’ I was pretty nervous because it was Dr. Bruce Corley asking me that. But I said, ‘Well, I want to say this humbly… yes, I would like to be a doctor.’ And then he told me, ‘Then you have obtained the first prerequisite. You have completed the first requisite—to see yourself as a doctor.’”

In 2014, Silvera’s journey toward a doctoral degree truly began. Although he had been accepted into the program, he still had several prerequisites to complete, most notably biblical languages and German. Determined to move forward, he traveled to New Orleans Theological Seminary for summer coursework, where

enrolled in four semesters of biblical Hebrew condensed into intensive summer terms. The challenge was significant. He learned Hebrew through English instruction while navigating his native Spanish, juggling three languages at once.

The following year, in 2015, Silvera returned to New Orleans to tackle biblical Greek in another rigorous summer session. Again, he faced the same linguistic triad: Spanish, English, and Greek, but he pressed on, crediting God for giving him the strength to complete each step.

One major requirement remained: German. Without the financial means to enroll in formal classes, he taught himself the language, studying independently until he felt prepared. When the time came, he sat for the German proficiency exam with B. H. Carroll and passed.

In 2019, with that final hurdle cleared, he was finally ready to begin his doctoral

studies in full. Challenges remained in navigating a doctoral program with spotty internet access. Arcadis would sometimes sit in a park in the rain to submit his homework because he had no internet at home. B. H. Carroll set up a VPN, giving him a secure way to submit his assignments.

“I told myself, ‘Arcadis, you cannot stop. You cannot make excuses.’ Most of the time, I was the first to submit my papers; my professors can attest to that,”Silvera said. “Dr. Karen Bullock taught me to be proactive. Then COVID brought new challenges, including limited access to books without services like Amazon, but even then, God continued to open doors.”

Arcadis’ 23-year ministry began to attract the Cuban government’s attention. He was very involved in church planting, and a movement had ignited with churches popping up all over the island. Silvera started being interrogated monthly by the Cuban authorities, and threats were made to his children and his wife.

“When you have children, everything changes,” Silvera said. “When it is just you as an adult, it is okay, you can suffer, you can even die. But when you are faced with sacrificing your children, that changes everything. Like Abraham presenting Isaac before the Lord, he suffered. And the Lord told me, ‘You have to escape.’ God opened every door for us.”

When Silvera and his family reached the Cuban airport, authorities pressed them with repeated questions about their travel plans. He told them they were headed to the Dominican Republic on a tourist trip, and after several rounds of questioning, they were finally allowed to board their flight. The family spent five months in the Dominican Republic before continuing on to Mexico, a journey he describes as marked by God’s protection at every turn.

Their time in Mexico unfolded safely as they moved from Toluca to Hermosillo, where a local pastor met them at the airport and took them under his care. Even when their car broke down an hour outside Hermosillo on the day of their interview at the Nogales border crossing, another vehicle arrived unexpectedly to get them there on time. The entire journey felt almost like a movie, a series of close calls met with timely provision.

Through each moment, minute by minute, second by second, the family felt guided and protected by the Lord, eventually arriving safely in the United States. The family applied for entry into the United States through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Their application was approved, granting them refugee status and opening the door for a new beginning in America.

“I did not come to the United States in search of the American dream,” Silvera said. “I love Cuba, and God was blessing my ministry there. Cuba is a poor country, but God has always provided for my family with food, good health, and financial stability. I understand that coming to America was God’s plan because we were in real danger in Cuba, and we had to escape.”

The hustle and bustle of American life took a toll on Arcadis and his family. It impacted him in ways he did not expect. “I started to think in terms of being busy: working, lacking time, making excuses,” he said. One of his professors, Dr. James Denison, often reminded students, “God redeems what He allows.” That truth became reality when new United States regulations revoked work authorization for refugees. On June 20, 2025, Arcadis lost his job as a chaplain. His wife, Yadely, who worked as a CNA, and his son, Daniel, also lost their jobs.

“It was a big, big challenge,” he said. “We had good jobs and a stable income, and suddenly we had nothing.” The Lord continued to guide the Silvera family with the provisions they needed through the generosity of believers and even a few non-believers.

His hope, he said, has always rested in God. He shared a moment from when his family had to choose between paying rent or buying food. They prayed and chose food. That same day, while at the grocery store as a family in Miami, they were unexpectedly offered paid work as movie extras, earning exactly the amount needed to cover rent. “God has never abandoned me,” he said. “This situation will not be the exception.”

Without the ability to work, Arcadis shifted his time and energy to his dissertation, completing it in just four months and defending it in November. “This degree is about my wife, who has been my greatest support, and my

children, who respected my time and sacrifices,” he said. “They gave up family moments so I could finish.”

For Arcadis, the doctoral degree represents something far greater than personal accomplishment. “This is a way to glorify God,” he said. “I stand here representing Cuba—many pastors and professors who desire this kind of education but cannot afford it.” He sees his graduation as the fulfillment of a shared dream, supported by institutions and mentors who believed in him and invested in the vision.

Moving forward, Arcadis plans to devote his life to teaching, research, and ministry. “I am a pastor, but I am also a teacher,” he said. “I want to train pastors, not only in Cuba, but in Latin America, Africa, and beyond, so they can handle Scripture faithfully and serve their communities well.”

Dr. Arcadis wants to encourage others pursuing God’s calling. “It is not about where you are,” he said. “It is about obedience. God owns all the resources. If He is calling you, do not give up. Keep going.”

Celebrating Generations of Support

DONOR GENEROSITY EMPOWERS

ETBU STUDENTS

Faithful friends returned to East Texas Baptist University in November for the annual Legacy of 1912 Society Luncheon. Retirees who once filled classrooms, donors who opened doors for students, and members of the Legacy of 1912 Society whose thoughtful gifts continue to echo far beyond a single afternoon celebrated a shared commitment to the University’s future.

The Legacy of 1912 Society is comprised of alumni and friends who, through thoughtful estate planning and other forms of planned giving, ensure that resources will be available to support ETBU far into the future.

“Thank you so much for what you have done in the life of East Texas Baptist University,” President J. Blair Blackburn said. “Brick by brick, you have laid a spiritual foundation at ETBU. We

continue to build upon the foundation of what you created and what God has done through you.”

During the celebratory luncheon, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Thomas Sanders, welcomed the guests, followed by an invocation by sophomore Christian ministry and business major Kirbee Webb. President Blackburn gave remarks and recognitions honoring those in attendance, followed by a special performance from the University’s Hilltop Singers. Senior communication studies major Tristan Maggio and senior nursing major Mackenzie Lawrence shared testimonies about their experiences at ETBU and the impact of scholarships on their academic and personal journeys.

“There is something special about this community,” Lawrence said. “The people

who have helped build this foundation on excellence and faith. I realize that I am so blessed to be able to walk in those footsteps. Because with their faithfulness and generosity, students like me have the opportunity to grow here, to serve here, and to carry light forward.”

Maggio echoed that impact, reflecting on how the support of others has shaped both his experience and his calling.

“Because you said yes, opportunities exist for students like me to grow, lead, and share the Gospel,” Maggio said.

“Your investment is not just supporting a university, it’s advancing the Kingdom. And I promise we won’t stop pushing back the darkness.”

Vice President for Executive Affairs

Scott Bryant delivered a legacy charge

to attendees, highlighting how the University and students’ lives are shaped by their generosity. He emphasized that each gift given to ETBU provides more than just financial support; it creates lasting opportunities for current and future students and positively influences surrounding communities. Bryant shared stories of students whose journeys have been made possible by such gifts, demonstrating how donor contributions empower the University to uphold its mission to prepare Christian servant leaders.

“Your investment in ETBU students is making an impact as they graduate and become Christian servant leaders in whatever field God calls them to serve,” Bryant said. “In the coming weeks, you will receive thank you notes from the current students that you are investing in. They, too, will graduate from ETBU. They will go out and do great things, in part because you stepped in and helped at just the right time, and you are part of the ETBU story. You are the people who God is using to make an impact in the lives of our current students.”

Your generous support as a donor to East Texas Baptist University plays a vital role in shaping the future of our students, our campus, and our mission.

Each gift, no matter the size, is a testament to your faith in the transformative power of education rooted in Christian values.

Scan the QR code, or visit ETBU.edu/give to make a donation to East Texas Baptist University.

With the help of alumni and friends of the University, ETBU offers scholarships to students who demonstrate Christian leadership in church, school, and community. Please consider making a contribution to the Christian Leadership Scholarship program to develop Christian servant leaders who impact the Kingdom.

Help us continue to transform the lives of current and future ETBU students through a contribution to the Blue & Gold Fund. Gifts to the Blue & Gold fund provide support for the University and enhance the student experience, meeting the most urgent needs of Tiger students and the institution.

With your assistance, ETBU will continue to attract quality student-athletes and offer them a Christ-centered experience where discipleship, ministry, and missions are central to their spiritual formation. You can take pride in having an impact on the success of Tiger Athletics and the academic, spiritual, and physical development of our student-athletes.

The Legacy of 1912 Society is comprised of alumni and friends who, through thoughtful estate planning, deferred giving, and other forms of planned giving, ensure that resources will be available to support ETBU far into the future. The legacy of your planned gift will last forever and support Christian faculty who educate and equip current and future generations of ETBU students.

The Pillars of ETBU are East Texas Baptist University’s group of core, faithful, and committed monthly donors. In the same way that the pillars provide strength and support to the various buildings on campus, members of the Pillars of ETBU bolster and fortify the University’s Christ-centered mission and ongoing work through monthly giving. Like all contributions to ETBU, you decide how the gift is designated.

CLASS NOTES

1960s

Harold Coburn (’66) is the Pastor of Bethel Methodist Community Church in Elysian Fields, Texas.

1970s

Rev. Michael (’71) and Charlotte (Sears) Scott (’71) have retired after more than 50 years in pastoral ministry in various states and have returned to River Oaks, Texas. Charlotte retired from Edward Jones Financial Services.

Jody (Bailey) Day (’79) retired after 16 years as Children’s Director, Administrative Services, and Petsch Arts Coordinator at the Fort Stockton Public Library. She continues to teach piano and voice, participates in local community theatre, and publishes Christian fiction. She has six grown children and 17 grandchildren.

1980s

Kathy (Anderson) Seidler (’82) retired in June 2024 after more than 30 years as Library Director at the Canadian Baptist Theological Seminary and College in Cochrane, Alberta. She and her husband celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in December 2025.

Dr. David Holder (’83) serves as the Discipleship Pastor at First Baptist Church, Texarkana, Texas.

Dr. David Howard (’84) teaches history at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

Dr. Randal O’Brien (’85) recently retired as Goose Creek ISD's Superintendent of Schools in Baytown, Texas.

Candace (Stockon) Rich (’89) is a Special Education Case Manager and Provider of Dyslexia Instruction at Granbury ISD.

1990s

Gayla (Thornburgh) Golden (’93) is the Care & Community Minister at First Baptist Church, Grapevine, Texas.

Dawna (Loden) Moore (’93) teaches sixth grade at Doerre Intermediate School in Klein, Texas. She has been married to her husband, Jeff, since 1993. They have two grown sons, and she recently became a grandmother.

Dan Schochler (’93) and Stacy (Himes) Schochler (’92), became grandparents in December 2023 when their two oldest children welcomed babies on the same day.

Cari (Walker) Johnson (’94) is the Executive Director

of the Marshall Pregnancy Resource Center.

Felicia (Shivers) Maden (’94) is the William B. Travis Elementary Librarian at Marshall ISD.

Kathleen (Gilliam) Hoggatt (’95) retired from teaching in May 2025 after many years in Lancaster ISD and now works as a Support Specialist at Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services.

Pamela (Ross) McCord (’95) is retired from her role as an Elementary Special Education Coordinator.

Dr. Ricky Tompkins (’95) has been selected as the Chancellor of the University of Arkansas at Hope-Texarkana.

Lori (Ivey) Howeth (’97) and her husband, Mike (’89), opened Ivy Acres, a wedding and event center in Harleton, Texas, in November 2025.

Vickie (Adams) Thomas (’97) is in her 28th year of teaching and currently teaches the Career and Technical Education Pathway and AVID 1 & 2 at Marshall High School. Vicki and her husband have been married for 30 years and have two sons; one is an ETBU graduate teaching at MISD, and the other is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran preparing to enroll at ETBU.

Kristie (Owen) Fuller (’98) returned to work last year as a hospice nurse with Good Shepherd Hospice

in the South Houston area after staying home with her children for six years.

Samuel Brown Jr. (’99) is an Assistant IT Manager at Louis A. Williams & Associates and is an ordained minister at Church On Purpose in Longview, Texas.

Melinda (Bryan) Cavel (’99) serves as an Instructional Coach for Teachers after teaching for 20 years.

Ruth (Gonzales) Grasty (’99) is Head Athletic Trainer and Co-Athletic Chair at Klein Collins High School.

2000s

Keri (Brockway) Baker (’00) and Robert (Dan) Baker (’00) teach and coach at Founders Christian School in Spring, Texas. Dan serves as Athletic Director and teaches government and economics, while Keri teaches second grade and coaches volleyball. They have five adult children, two grandsons, and two more on the way.

Crystal (Jenkins) Carroll (’00) is the Administrative Assistant to the Associate Minister of Administration/ Finance at Sugar Creek Baptist Church in Sugar Land, Texas.

Beth (Niles) Tidwell (’00) teaches elementary music in Terrell ISD.

Sara (Scaff) Boneberg (’02) serves on the music ministry staff at Christ Chapel Bible Church in Fort Worth.

Naomi (Killingsworth) Ellis (’02) teaches culinary arts at Marshall High School.

Randall Speights (’02) serves as the Principal for Whitehouse High School.

Emily (Tatum) West (’02) is a Post-Kidney Transplant Coordinator in Lubbock, Texas.

Carrie (Vonfeldt) Andrus (’03) began a new role on January 1, 2026, as Minister to Children and Family at Trinity Baptist Church in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Josh Jordan (’03) is the Family Life Pastor at First Baptist Church, Covington, Louisiana. He will celebrate 19 years of service in 2026.

Rachel (Bottoms) Richards (’03) teaches second grade at Hallsville West Elementary and serves on the missions team at First Baptist Church, Hallsville, Texas.

Erin (Shortner) Sawyer (’03) teaches fifth grade and serves as Head Varsity Volleyball Coach at Faith Academy of Marble Falls, Texas.

Stephanie (Staggs) Baskin (’04) serves as the Missions Manager at Lakepointe Church, where she oversees Adoption and Foster Care Ministries. She and her family celebrated the adoption of their fourth child in May 2025.

Rachel (Oney) Evers (’04) seves as the Ore City ISD Superintendent.

SaraAnne Dickerson (’05) serves as a certified school American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter and is the proud mom of three.

Dr. Wendi (Anderson) Dowden (’05) is the Assistant Principal at Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts. She has worked in education for over 15 years.

Tad Myers (’05) is the Career and Technical Education Director at Farmersville ISD.

Michael Vela II (’05) is the Director of Wellbeing Services at the

University of Texas at San Antonio and holds credentials as a licensed clinical social worker-supervisor, licensed chemical dependency counselor, and peer support specialist.

Nicole (Routh) Wells (’05) is an Instructional Coach at Willow Vista Early Childhood Academy in Amarillo, Texas.

Dori (Kimbrough) Ballard (’06) recently earned her Master of Arts in Communication from Texas A&M University–Texarkana and is in her third year as Digital Marketing and SEO Specialist at Texarkana College.

New jobs, weddings, births, memorials, updates –whatever your news, share it with your ETBU Family.

Update online: www.ETBU.edu/ alumniupdate

Email: alumni@etbu.edu

Send to: Alumni Relations

East Texas Baptist University One Tiger Drive Marshall, TX 75670

Hilltop Magazine reserves the right to edit information that is submitted.

Dr. Erica (Melton) Fenderson (’06) lives in Tulsa, Okla., and is an active

member of Arrow Heights Baptist Church. She works as a Professor of Counseling at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and was recently named Oklahoma Counselor of the Year by the Oklahoma Counseling Association.

Emily (Antido) Ortego (’06) recently retired from teaching and is starting her own business. She has a six-year-old daughter, Willow.

Patrick Pickens (’06) works as a teacher and coach at Westwood ISD.

Alicia (George) Hudson (’07) transitioned to a new role in September 2025 as a Clinical Auditor – Outpatient Specialty for Cotiviti.

Shauney (Savoy) Behnke (’08) is a Certified Academic Language

Therapist and Licensed Dyslexia Therapist. She works with students in Conroe ISD and serves as a Qualified Instructor in Training at the Dyslexia Center of Austin.

Keri (Christoper) Mears (’08) works as a Flavor and Color Lab Technician for Sweet Candy Company in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Dr. Antay (Pond) Waters (’08) was selected as an inaugural Fellow of the National Association of Women’s Health Nurse Practitioners. Dr. Waters serves on the ETBU Teague School of Nursing faculty and as an OB Hospitalist with the OB Hospitalist Group at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital in Tyler, Texas, and CHRISTUS St. Michael Hospital in Texarkana.

2010s

Jeremy Green (’10) is a teacher and coach at Bells ISD, and Michelle (Bubenik) Green (’11) is a NICU nurse. They have been married 13

years and have two sons, Peyton (11) and Wyatt (9).

Natalie (Lagrone) Rose (’10) recently joined TC Boiler and Piping as a Cost Tracker.

Elizabeth Garcia (’11) works as a Family Nurse Practitioner in Longview, Texas.

Diego Copa (’11) owns Che Gaucho Restaurant in Tomball, Texas. He also serves as the Head Coach for Boy’s Soccer at Concordia Lutheran High School in Tomball and as the Campus Director for HTX Soccer in Tomball and Cypress.

Dr. Genea Shoulders (’11) is an Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice at Texas Wesleyan University.

Brenna (Gibson) Balog (’12) is a third-grade teacher at Cooper ISD.

Rebecca (Corpier) Gage (’12) works with the East Texas Council of Governments.

Stuart Suddeth Jr. (’12) is a self-employed business owner of ProSurface Performance Courts.

Rachel (Pool) Ledkins (’13) teaches kindergarten at Brownsboro Elementary.

Jordan (Bullard) Carnley (’14) is a middle school special education teacher in Breckinridge County, Ky.

Krystin (Jurries) Colgrove (’14) serves as a Licensed Professional Counselor at a private practice.

MEET THE DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT KATY ROBERTS (’06)

Katy Roberts began serving East Texas Baptist University as the Director of Alumni Relations and Development in January 2026, but her connection to ETBU began over 20 years ago when she graduated from the University with her Bachelor of Science in Education.

Katy and her husband, Dr. Jeremy Roberts (’04), have served in full-time ministry for 21 years with 17 of those at Immanuel Baptist Church in Marshall. Jeremy has led the church as Senior Pastor for the past two years. They have three children: Heidi, a freshman at ETBU, Luke, a senior at Harleton High School, and Holly, a freshman at Harleton High School.

A Letter to Alumni

As a high school student, I was searching for a university where I wouldn’t get lost in the crowd. I wanted a place where I could truly know people and be known— where I could grow academically, deepen my faith, and make a difference in a Christcentered community. I found exactly that at ETBU.

My connection to the University didn’t end at my commencement. In many ways, it was just the beginning. I met my husband on this campus, built lifelong friendships here, and experienced spiritual growth that continues to shape who I am today. ETBU became more than my alma mater; it became part of my family’s story.

Now, as alumni director, it is a joy and privilege to serve the very place that gave so much to me. Our daughter is currently a freshman at ETBU, and our son will begin his journey here in the fall of 2026. Watching our children walk the same campus where so much of our story began is a full-circle blessing and a reminder of how deeply ETBU impacts generations.

Whether you graduated recently or decades ago, you are forever part of the ETBU Tiger Family. My goal is to bring ETBU to you, to share the incredible ways God is working in and through this university, to celebrate YOU as alumni, to pray for you, and to provide opportunities for connection, encouragement, and community at every stage of life. ETBU deeply shaped my story. Now, I am honored to help keep our alumni connected to the story God is still writing here. Come see me on the Hill! I would love to meet you and connect.

Once a Tiger, Always a Tiger, Katy Roberts

Lori Gould (’15) serves on the youth and children’s ministry teams at First Baptist Church, Tenaha, Texas, and teaches fourth through sixth-grade social studies and science at Tenaha ISD.

Dr. Ashley (Morris) Jackson (’15) recently earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice and will serve as a pediatric nurse practitioner in Central Texas.

Jovana Nieto (’15) holds a Master of Public Health and International Relations from Liberty University. She lives in Austin and has built a diverse and successful career as a project management professional.

Gabrielle (Garcia) Baggett (’16) is a preschool teacher and MomCo Ministry Leader at Foundry Church in Houston.

Austin Fuller (’16) is a Technology Integrationist at Hughes Springs ISD. He is an active member of Cross Creek Cowboy Church in Atlanta, Texas, and serves as a Supply Pastor for the Enon Baptist Association.

Stevi (Slaughter) Redd (’16) works in research at Eastman Chemical Company. She and her husband, Austin, have a daughter, Elena, and a son, Hyland James.

Allison (Jones) Wheeler (’16) works as an Athletic Trainer at Palestine High School.

Skylar (Williams) Ayres (’17) serves as the Athletic Advisor at Panola College.

Caitlin (Alverson) Graham (’17, ’18) is the Community Education Director for the Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center in Winnsboro, Texas. Her husband, Sean Graham (’17), is a Juvenile Probation Officer for Henderson County in Athens, Texas.

Katelyn (Pope) Hanson (’17) is a Family Nurse Practitioner for UT Health in Carthage, Texas.

Tyler Hickingbottom (’17) serves as Student Pastor at Grace Baptist Church in Fort Worth.

Miriam (Coti) Sprinkle (’17) is a teacher and content creator in Austin.

Allison (Rodden) Errico (’18,’23) serves as the Marketing, Multimedia, & Web Coordinator at Cleburne ISD.

Jordan Gray (’18,’20) and his wife, Gabrielle (Guy) Gray (’19), work at iCRYO, Tyler, Texas, a recovery and wellness medical center.

Katelyn Jacobs (’18) is a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant in Beaumont ISD.

Marion Sanford (’18, ’20) is a high school soccer coach at Bethesda Christian School in Fort Worth and owns his hat brand, “Twin Collections.” His wife, Sarah (Gutierrez) Sanford (’22), serves as the Director of Memory Care and Assisted Living at Ventana by Buckner. The couple married on September 3, 2023.

Rachel Woods (’18) works full-time as a nanny and serves in the baby room at Birdville Baptist Church in Haltom City, Texas. She is President of the Coppell Community Orchestra and plays French horn in both the orchestra and the Irving Symphonic Band.

Marla (Posey) Bush (’19) is the Dean of Student Services and Financial Aid at the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana.

Dr. Madison (Kelly) Gillette (’19) earned her Ph.D. in School Psychology and works as a school psychologist serving underprivileged populations in a public school district, as well as a clinical psychologist in private practice in Dallas. Madison recently married Andre Gillette, a teacher and coach, and the couple shares a commitment to public education, mentorship, and community service.

Melanie (Kornhauser) Moss (’19) is a Felony Probation Officer in Wood County, Texas, fulfilling her dream and putting her ETBU education to work.

Ashley Simmons (’19,’21) has served in the U.S. Air Force Reserves since 2022 and will soon recommission as Chaplaincy Officer. She has earned two Master of Arts degrees in Theology and Chaplaincy, completed a chaplaincy residency at Baptist Health in Little Rock, Ark, and applies her leadership and communication skills as a manager at Texas Roadhouse in Texarkana.

Ashleigh Taylor (’19) is the Kids Ministry Associate at First Baptist Church, Midlothian, Texas.

2020s

Arnol Escobedo (’20) serves as a Creative and Junior High Youth Leader at New Covenant Church in Longview, Texas. He and his wife, Lindsey, reside in Tyler.

Sarah (Boykin) Gonzalez (’20) married Luis Gonzalez in July 2025. Sarah has taught fifth-grade English language arts teacher at Grand Saline Intermediate School for the past five years.

Billy McClendon (’20,’21) is a teacher and coach at Shackelford Junior High in Arlington, Texas.

Natalie (Smith) Rogers (’20, ’24) earned her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in December 2024, married Drew Rogers, and received her Licensed Professional Counselor license.

Leovardo Sanchez (’20,’21) serves as the Recruitment Manager at Criswell College in Dallas.

Tiffany (Stankiewicz) Tarver (’20) works as a labor and delivery nurse at Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center in Fort Worth. Her husband, Ty Tarver (’19), is an accountant with U.S. Energy, and they have two children, Grayson and Callan.

Emily (Bradshaw) Arrazate (’21) is a pediatric physical therapist assistant in Tyler, Texas.

Michael Sanders (’20,’21) passed the Texas Bar Exam and officially became a licensed attorney in October 2025. Michael is a first-year associate at Frost Brown Todd in Dallas.

Bianca Davison (’22) is a fourth-year pharmacy student at the University of North Texas Health Science Center College of Pharmacy and will graduate with her Doctor of Pharmacy in May 2026.

Rev. Robert Sexton (’22) is retired but continues to serve in pulpit supply when needed. He is a chaplain for a widow/widower group, provides pastoral counseling, and enjoys writing books and Christian songs. He is

currently recovering from triple bypass heart surgery and is grateful for his Master of Arts in Christian Ministry in Spiritual Formation from ETBU, which supported his ministry calling.

Franklin Thurlow (’22) serves as the Communications Coordinator for Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee in Nashville.

Cassidy Harris (’23) works as a teacher at Jan Schiff Elementary in Missouri City, Texas.

Averri LeMalle (’23) is serving as the Associate Worship Leader at Summer Grove Baptist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Abigail (Jones) Milstead (’23) is serving as Worship Arts Director at Harvest Methodist Church in Missouri City, Texas.

Jael (Davis) Overholt (’23,’25) serves as Choir Director at First Presbyterian Church, Lufkin, Texas.

Zachary Thomas (’23) teaches fifth-grade social studies at William B. Travis Elementary in Marshall ISD.

Brianna Younger (’23) is approaching her second year as a labor and

delivery nurse at Ochsner LSU Health in Shreveport, Louisiana, where she was recently honored with The DAISY Award.

Addison Funk (’24) accepted a position with the student ministry at New

Beginnings Baptist Church in Longview, Texas. She is grateful for the way ETBU prepared her for a role she loves, with faith at its center.

Sidney (Jobe) Goldsmith (’24,’25) and Hayden Goldsmith (’24) serve in East Texas. Hayden is a baseball coach at Marshall High School, and Sidney is a medical representative for Curonix.

Rachel Jones (’24) teaches chemistry at MacArthur High School in Irving, Texas, and is completing her alternative teaching certification.

Gracyn Stroman (’24) is a sixth-grade Advanced Reading Language Arts Teacher at Hallsville Intermediate School.

Hannah (Hamm) Powell (’24) and Garion Powell (’22, ’25) married in June 2024 and welcomed their son in March 2025. In November 2025, Garion began his first ministry role as Director of Children’s Ministry at Fellowship Bible Church in Longview, Texas.

Hannah (Hobson) Rabb (’24) is pursuing a dual Master of Divinity and Master of Music in Church Music at Baylor University

Hannah (Donally) Odle (’25) is a fifth-grade reading teacher at Lindale ISD.

Lindy Wilkerson (’25) serves on the social media team and in the kids ministry at Lakepointe Church in Rockwall, Texas.

TIGER CUBS

2010s

Karyn (Solly) Ash (’11) welcomed another son, Brennan Lee, in November 2024. Karyn was promoted to Executive Assistant at Credent Wealth Management in July 2025.

Hayley (Andress) Wall (’11) and husband, Caylen, celebrated the birth of their son, Baylor, in August 2025.

Corrie (Andrews) Reigle (’17) and her husband, Jonathan, welcomed twin daughters, Noelle and Truly, in March 2024.

Rebekah (Mills) Young (’17) and Josh Young (’17) welcomed baby number four in September 2025. Rebekah is a full-time mom and homemaker.

Sign up for

JOIN THE CLUB!

The Office of Alumni Relations is excited to offer Toby and Tabby’s Cub Club to the children and grandchildren in the ETBU Family. Cubs can be enrolled at any age from birth through junior high. New members of Toby and Tabby’s Cub Club receive a certificate, a t-shirt, and access to Toby and Tabby's activity webpage. Each year, club members are sent a birthday card and can choose from a selection of Tiger apparel and accessories. The program costs $25 per participant.

Brianna (Gwinn)

McGee (’19) and husband Tanner celebrated the birth of their daughter, Kallyn, in June. Brianna teaches at Katy ISD.

2020s

Hunter (’20,’21) and Haley (Harmening)

Punjak (’21) celebrated the birth of their daughter, Hope Elizabeth, on August 11, 2025.

William (’22,’23) and Abigail (Bath) Kelley (’22,’23) celebrated the birth of their son, Samuel, on October 18, 2024.

IN MEMORIAM

1940s

Mr. Billy Bockmon (’49) passed away on October 4, 2025. He was married to Camille (Hornbuckle) Bockmon (’49), whom he met on the Hill before she passed in 2003. He was involved in his community, church, and family. He leaves behind Susan Bockmon, wife of 21 years.

1950s

Jim Bob Milliorn Jr. (’51) passed away on November 6, 2025. He had a heart for the Lord and will be missed dearly by many.

Rev. Milburn Bowers (’52) passed away on September

9, 2025. He was known for his devotion to the Lord.

Rev. Morris F. Brock (’54) passed away on September 25, 2025. He was known for his love for his family and his deep love for his Savior.

Chaplain

Brig. Gen. Gerald Renae

Chancellor (’57) passed away on December 30, 2025. He was a distinguished U.S. Air Force chaplain and is remembered for his dedication to service and his impact on the faith community.

Dr. Donald E. Lewis (’57) passed away on October 27, 2025. He was faithful in his lifelong calling to be a pastor.

Ms. Betty Smith (’57) passed away on September 22, 2025. She was cherished deeply by her community and family. Betty had a heart for service and touched many lives with her compassion.

1960s

Dr. Jimmy Anderson (’61) passed away on November 18, 2025. He is remembered for his quick wit, warm laugh, and zest for life. His ministry touched countless lives through his faith, compassion, and dedication to the Gospel, leaving a lasting legacy of joy, kindness, and faithfulness.

Dr. Barbara (Bassham) Pankhurst (’62) passed away on November 4, 2025. She was a devoted teacher who was known for her

compassion for others. Her fearless, kind, and loving spirit will be missed by many friends and family.

Robert “Bob” Duvall (’63) passed away on September 22, 2025. He was known for his servant’s heart and dedication to both his family and work as a CPA at Knuckols Duvall Hallum & Co.

Rev. Robert Earl “Hunk” Carter (’64) passed away on October 23, 2025. Robert served as a faithful pastor, loving husband, and dedicated father and grandfather. He is remembered for his charismatic personality, calming wisdom, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones.

Peggy A. Hawthorne (’64) passed away on July 16, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and service. Her life was a testament to the power of human connection and the difference one person can make in the lives of many.

Mrs. Cynthia Lee (Belcher) Kennedy (’66) passed away on August, 22, 2025. She was known for her love and passion for serving in her church, family, and the deaf community. In light of her heart for those with disabilities, she believed that “...all humankind should have the opportunity to learn and be the best that they can be.”

Mrs. Linda Watson (’69) passed away on September 22, 2025. She was a dedicated educator who consistently poured into the

lives of children. Linda was close with her family and her core group of friends.

1970s

Rev. Joe Saffle (’70) passed away on September 5, 2025. He was known for his faithfulness and dedication to the Lord. He served as a pastor for almost 60 years and continued to mentor, lead, and befriend those around him.

Mrs. Waynette Seamans (’70) passed away on November 13, 2025. She loved her family deeply and will be remembered for the way she touched many lives.

Dr. Gladys (June) Strohsahl (Wood) (’70) passed away on August 19, 2025. Dr. June was known for her passion and commitment to education and those around her. She lived by her motto “Faith, family, friends, and country.”

Sherry (Housewright) Bacher (’73) passed away on February 20, 2025.

Mr. Millard “Salt” D. Jones (’76) passed away on October 1, 2025. Salt was known for his dedication to the calling the Lord placed on his heart for the church and the mission field.

Mr. Robert Paul Deline (’77) passed away on October 21, 2025. He touched many lives and will be dearly missed by his friends and family.

Save the Date

OCTOBER 30-31, 2026

1980s

Rose Marie Baggerly (’80) passed away on December 21, 2025. A devoted missionary, she was known for using puppets in her ministry and leaves a legacy of love, strength, and kindness that touched all who knew her.

Kathryn M. Vance (’83) passed away on July 19, 2025. She was a woman known for her compassion for others and a heart filled with joy.

Mrs. Betty Lou Moore (’84) passed away on October 18, 2025. She was a passionate and dedicated educator who was committed to impacting multiple

generations. She will be remembered for her gentle strength, kind heart, and unwavering devotion to her family, faith, and community.

Rev. Sidney David Tenery (’85) passed away on July 25, 2025. He was committed to serving the Lord all the days of his life. Sidney first served his country as a member of the U.S. Army before accepting a call to over 35 years in ministry. He loved his family, especially his wife Barbara Ann (Elkins) Tenery (’81).

Rev. Mike Wyatt (’86) passed away on October 13, 2025. He is remembered for his strong will, deep love for the Lord, and confidence in his calling.

1990s

Dr. Bob Halstead (’90) passed away on September 12, 2025. He was

noted for his shepherd’s heart and passion for leading people to and closer to Jesus.

Dr. Michael W. Perkins (’90) passed away on July 25, 2025. He embodied a life of deep faith, quiet strength, and unwavering kindness. Mike was a pediatrician known for his commitment and care for the families in his community.

Mr. Samuel (Sam) Adams (’93) passed away January 8,

2026. He is remembered for his kindness and enduring love for his friends and family.

2010s

Tayelar Turner (’15,’17) passed away on September 10, 2025. She is remembered for her strong faith and her dedication to her daughter.

FRIENDS

Dr. Ralph Dahl passed away on November 24, 2025. He was a passionate educator who impacted many lives. He and his wife, Dr. Shirley Dahl, both taught on the ETBU campus after getting married in Scarborough Chapel.

BENEDICTION

Faithful Stewardship of Time

Dear Heavenly Father,

Your power and wisdom are beyond our comprehension. By Your word, You spoke into nothingness, and all of Creation came into being. At Your command, the heavens were set in their courses, the earth established in its place—no detail too great, no piece too small to escape Your sovereign care.

In Your gracious providence, You have ordered our days. You have appointed both light and darkness, work and rest, solitude and fellowship, each serving Your good purposes and meeting our every need. Even in these simplest rhythms of Creation, You have revealed Yourself to be faithful, generous, and good.

Lord, in Your mercy, teach us to number our days. Grant us hearts of wisdom, that we may treasure the time You have entrusted to us. May we steward it faithfully—offering it back to You in humble worship, sharing it freely with others in acts of love and service, investing it deeply in those You have placed in our care, and sacrificially laying it down for the sake of Your Kingdom.

May our lives bear witness to Your glory, and may our days be lived in obedience, gratitude, and hope until we stand before You.

We pray all of this in the precious and powerful name of Jesus, Amen

A PRAYER FROM DR. DAVID GRIFFIN, DEAN OF SPIRITUAL LIFE

Restoring Feagin Hall

Thousands of alumni who made East Texas Baptist their “Home on the Hill” deepened their walk with the Lord, forged the bonds of friendship, and prepared for God’s calling within the walls of Feagin Hall. By preserving the building’s heritage and modernizing its interior through the Restoring Feagin Hall Campaign, we honor their legacy while preparing to welcome future Tigers who will write the next chapter of the building’s storied history.

Learn more and contribute at www.ETBU.edu/RestoringFeagin

Throughout ETBU’s history, the generosity of donors has illuminated the path for students. By supporting the Light the Way: ETBU Student Scholarship Initiative, you can change lives and enable students to pursue their Goddirected purposes. Learn more and make a scholarship gift online at www.ETBU.edu/LightTheWay.

Come and see!

SCHEDULE A TOUR

Visiting ETBU’s beautiful campus is the best way to experience what it’s like to be part of the ETBU Family.