Hilltop | 2024 Issue 2

ETBU MISSION

As a Christ-centered institution, East Texas Baptist University educates students by integrating biblical faith and learning to develop mind, body, and soul through community engagement to prepare graduates to be Christian servant leaders in their calling to God and humanity.

LIFE ON THE HILL

Student Ministry presents the Gospel to young East Texans.

ETBU nursing, pre-med, and Spanish students serve in San Raymundo, Guatemala.

Spreading

A look into Dr. Ana Paula Mumy’s contributions to the field of speech-language pathology.

ETBU celebrates Spring 2024 Tiger graduates.

Q&A with the Frank S. Groner School of Professional Studies.

UNIVERSITY LIFE AT ITS BRIGHTEST

Each spring, Steve and Penny Carlile Hall hosts a Color Run, a tradition of promoting healthy exercise and an active lifestyle. This year’s run was held on March 18, and students from across campus joined in the fun and fitness.

“May the God of hope ll you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may over ow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

As patrons approach ETBU’s Jason Bell Park, the home of Tiger Softball and the Valor Gals, they are greeted by the Latin phrase Domus Victorium–Solus Christus. This powerful inscription translates to “A Home for Champions–for Christ Alone!”

Our cover story features our incredible ETBU Tiger Softball team, who recently claimed the NCAA Division III National Championship on their home field. The season was marked by hard work, determination, and a profound sense of unity rooted in Christ. Through every game, they leaned on each other and their faith, proving that true champions are made through resilience, trust in God, and the unwavering support of a close-knit community. The victory was sweet, but the journey—filled with prayer, sisterhood, and tenacity—was what truly defined them as champions.

As we watched this summer at the Olympics in Paris, France, the notion of a champion often conjures images of medals, accolades, and standing atop podiums. While these moments of recognition are indeed significant, the champions we nurture at East Texas Baptist University transcend these symbols. Our champions are those who courageously pursue their God-given potential, striving for excellence not just in the classroom or on the field but in their walk with Christ and in their commitment to serving others.

At ETBU, we believe every student is called to be a champion in their own right. This belief is rooted in our Christian faith, which reminds us of David’s song of praise from Psalm 139:14 that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made,” each with unique talents and a divine purpose. Our Christ-centered mission is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and spiritual foundation to excel in all they do, preparing them to impact the world as compassionate leaders and dedicated servants of God.

This issue of Hilltop Magazine celebrates the champions among us. From the firstyear students discovering their passion to the athlete who gives their all on the field to the faculty members pushing the boundaries of research and innovation, our campus is alive with stories of triumph and perseverance. These stories serve as a testament to the extraordinary things that happen when we embrace our calling and commit to living out God’s truths every day.

You’ll read about Dr. Ana Paula Mumy, a distinguished professor and director leading our emerging graduate degree in speech-language pathology. Dr. Mumy has blessed the campus community by combining her expertise with a heart for service. Her vision for the program is not just academic excellence but equipping graduates to be compassionate caregivers who can make a real difference in people’s lives. Dr. Mumy’s work is a shining

example of how our faculty champion both knowledge and the love of Christ in their classrooms.

This issue of Hilltop also highlights the remarkable ways our students serve in the name of Jesus, locally, nationally, and globally. Whether volunteering with the Baptist Student Ministry Kid’s Club apartment outreach, sharing the Gospel in South Padre as a part of Beach Reach, serving on a medical mission trip to Guatemala, or participating in the Tiger Athletic Mission Experience in Honduras, our students are living out their faith with courage and compassion. They understand that being champions isn’t limited to personal success but involves stepping into the lives of others, offering hope, and extending Christ’s love in tangible ways. Their commitment to service embodies the heart of the University mission: to educate students who will transform the world through Christian servant leadership.

But being a champion at ETBU isn’t confined to outstanding academic and athletic achievements. It’s about the everyday acts of kindness, the quiet moments of reflection, and the steadfast commitment to personal growth. It’s students like Avery Abshier who find time to volunteer in our communities despite juggling a full course load and a part-time job. It’s professors like Dr. Michael Rich who stay after class to pray over a student. It’s the staff members like Debbie Rogers who go the extra mile to make everyone feel welcome. These small yet significant acts are the heartbeat of the ETBU Tiger Family, reminding us that we are all called to be champions in our daily lives.

As we move into this new season, I encourage you to reflect on what it means to be a champion in your life. How can you use your gifts to serve others? How can you pursue excellence in a way that honors God? Here’s to a year filled with virtue, victory, and the valor to be champions – for Christ alone!

EAST TEXAS BAPTIST UNIVERSITY, B. H. CARROLL THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY MERGE FOLLOWING SACSCOC APPROVAL CAMPUS News

East Texas Baptist University and B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary are pleased to announce their official merger, following approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The SACSCOC Board of Trustees approved ETBU’s Substantive Merger/Level Change prospectus, endorsing the integration of B. H. Carroll into ETBU. With this approval, ETBU expands its status as a Level VI institution of higher learning.

Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, President of ETBU, commented, “I applaud the work of ETBU and B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary faculty and staff, who collaborated over the past two years to create this

opportunity for the merger and ETBU’s doctoral-level status change. We are moving forward in the process of merging the operations of Carroll Seminary into the University. We are grateful to the ETBU Board of Trustees and B. H. Carroll President Gene Wilkes and the Carroll Board of Governors for their leadership and support in advocating and affirming the vision and processes for consolidating Carroll Seminary as a part of ETBU.”

The merger expands the academic and support resources available to students of both institutions. B. H. Carroll students will now have access to enhanced financial aid options, additional scholarship opportunities, and comprehensive

student services provided by ETBU. The merger also positions ETBU as a doctoral degree-granting institution, furthering its commitment to academic excellence and advanced theological education.

“ETBU welcomes B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, and donors into the ETBU Family,” Dr Blackburn said. “With God’s vision and plans revealed to us, the merger consolidation strengthens Carroll Seminary’s Kingdom impact in educating and training theological and ministry leaders for generations to come.”

Both B. H. Carroll and ETBU believe in being good stewards of what the Lord has built. The merger positions B. H. Carroll for its next generation of growth and service. B. H. Carroll’s merger into ETBU will allow the seminary to have a larger role in the life of Texas Baptists, Southern Baptists, and likeminded evangelical denominations while preserving a close relationship with supportive churches. It will also grow ETBU, a legacy institution of Baptists in Texas, adding master’s and doctoral

degree programs accredited by the Association of Theological Schools.

Dr. Gene Wilkes, President of B. H. Carroll, added, “Joining ETBU represents a significant opportunity for our seminary. The combined resources and shared mission will undoubtedly enhance the theological training and ministry preparation we provide. We thank the SACSCOC Board for their approval and confidence in this merger.”

Throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, the institutions will work together to merge the seminary into ETBU. B. H. Carroll will retain its identity and stand as one of the eight academic schools of ETBU, where all graduate theological education programs will be offered.

“Of the major milestones in ETBU’s history, this significant advance places the University on a trajectory toward an advance in capacity for not only theological education but many other fields as a Level VI institution,” Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Thomas Sanders said.

ETBU HONORS STUDENTS AT PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS SOCIETY & HONORS PROGRAM DINNER

ETBU proudly honored academic excellence and Christian scholarship at the Presidential Scholars Society and Honors Program Dinner on March 19 in the Great Hall of ETBU’s Great Commission Center. The event, hosted by ETBU President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, recognized students who have achieved extraordinary success in their educational pursuits throughout their time at ETBU and students who are members of ETBU’s Honors Program.

“This special event serves as a way for our University leadership to celebrate not only academic achievement but also the embodiment of our University’s Christ-centered mission.” Dr. Blackburn said. “These students have excelled in their studies and demonstrated a commitment to Christian values and service. They are shining examples of what it means to be leaders who will make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.”

The Honors Program held its third annual ASK Speaker Event as part of the dinner. ASK is an acronym for ask, seek, and knock from Chapter 7 of Matthew’s Gospel. In the original Greek, these three commands from Jesus are in the present progressive. Ask and continue asking, seek and continue seeking, knock and continue knocking. The ASK Speaker Event invites fellow inquirers of life to spend time with our community to share what they have learned in their pursuit of wisdom and witness God’s provision in that pursuit. Dr. Alan Noble, Associate Professor of English at Oklahoma Baptist University, delivered the charge to those in attendance.

To conclude the evening, 11 senior Presidential Scholars were presented with Presidential Scholar Society awards in recognition of maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA after more than 90 completed credit hours at the institution. The following honorees were recognized: Avery Abshier, Erin Berry, Karis Crenshaw, Mary Frances Ellis, Elijah Gage, Hannah Hobson, Kendall Little, Madison O’Neal, Sarah Resendez, Holli Richards, and Hallie Sadler.

“Celebrating these outstanding scholars reminds us of the transformative power of education guided by faith,” Dr. Blackburn continued. “As they embark on their future endeavors, I have no doubt they will continue to inspire others for the cause of Christ.”

From left to right: Front: Kendall Little, Hallie Sadler, Avery Abshier, Madison O’Neal, Holli Richards, Sarah Resendez Back: Erin Berry, Karis Crenshaw, Hannah Hobson, Elijah Gage. Not pictured: Mary Frances Ellis.

EAST TEXAS REGIONAL PHI ALPHA THETA CONFERENCE RECOGNIZES ETBU STUDENTS FOR OUTSTANDING RESEARCH

Three students from the School of Christian Studies and Humanities at East Texas Baptist University were honored for their exceptional research papers at the East Texas Regional Phi Alpha Theta Conference held at Stephen F. Austin University on April 13.

“We are privileged to work with such a good group of students on our campus,” Dean for the School of Christian Studies and Humanities and Sam B. Hall Professor of History Sandy Hoover said. “I’m glad to see their hard work is being recognized in the wider East Texas community.”

Senior history major Gracyn Stroman was awarded the Best Paper accolade for her paper, “Westward Women: Satisfaction and Optimism on the Overland Trails.” Senior social studies secondary education major Spencer Carey received an Honorable Mention for his paper, “A Local Homefront Effort During World War II: How the Women of Harrison County, Texas Responded to the United States’ Declaration of War.” Senior humanities Parker Boone also received an Honorable Mention for his paper, “Federal Power and State Sovereignty:

Debates and Dynamics from the Constitutional Convention.”

“It was a very special privilege for me to present my research at the Phi Alpha Theta conference,” Carey said. “I worked very hard for a whole semester researching and writing my paper. I’m thrilled that the judges liked my paper enough to present me with the Honorable Mention award. I want to thank Dr. Sandy Hoover and Dr. Jenny Hoover for helping me stay motivated through the process of researching and drafting an award-worthy paper.”

Phi Alpha Theta is a prestigious National Honor Society for undergraduate and graduate students and professors of history, promoting excellence in historical research and scholarship. Regional conferences held at universities across the United States offer a platform for students to present their award-winning papers, with the opportunity to submit them for consideration at the national conference.

“Throughout the research process, I was blessed with a unique opportunity to investigate the journals of many women traveling along the overland trails in the 19th century,” Stroman said. “Some of these journals told the story of courage, perseverance, determination, and a total trust in God. I am thankful to have encountered these women through their journals and share their stories with others.”

ETBU DEBUTS STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL, DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT

ETBU’s Department of Communication hosted a Student Film Festival and Design and Photography Exhibit for the first time on May 2 at the Marshall Cinema. Fifteen short films from the advanced video production course and previous classes were screened. Photography and graphic design student work was exhibited in the lobby of the cinema before and after the showing.

“Our goal for the Communication Department is to help students find their voice,” Chair of the Department of Communication and Assistant Professor Dan Streety said. “The film fest, along with our photography and graphic design exhibit, is a way to showcase the talents of our many students across multiple classes. We couldn’t be more proud of our students and the faculty who help them find their voice.”

Senior digital arts major Izel Gaitan was announced the film festival winner for her production, “Grace Under Pressure.” Junior business administration major Fisher Naumann’s film, “Awaken,” was recognized for creativity. Taylor Crowell, a junior, won the top prize from the photo and design exhibit with her photo, “Man Sitting.” Student work was judged by a panel of three ETBU faculty and staff members.

From left to right: Gracyn Stroman, Spencer Carey. Not pictured: Parker Boone.

From left to right: Fisher Naumann, Izel Gaitan, Dan Streety. Not pictured: Taylor Crowell

ERIN BERRY NAMED 77TH SENIOR GIRL CALL-OUT

Erin Berry of Bullard, Texas, was recognized on April 26 during ETBU’s 77th annual Senior Girl Call-Out. Selected by a faculty and staff vote, the senior student “called out” each year is distinguished for her exemplary Christian character, social consciousness, personal poise, academic achievement, and spiritual vision.

“Being selected as this year’s Senior Girl Call-Out is a tremendous blessing and honor because the faculty and staff at ETBU have modeled and demonstrated the love of Christ through their teachings and investment in my well-being as a student,” Berry said. “I greatly respect and admire how ETBU faculty and staff prioritize and embrace their faith in serving His Kingdom in their respective fields or professions. I hope to be the same light in my future endeavors.”

Berry, a psychology major, has left an indelible mark on the ETBU community. Her involvement spans various facets of the University, including being an Honor’s Program student, ETBU Women’s Basketball player, Fellowship of Christian Athletes leader, Tiger Camp leader, Psi Chi Secretary, Phi Gamma Mu President,

Thrive Peer Mentor, and the successful completion of an award-winning honors research project.

“Attending ETBU has been transformational,” Berry said. “Through basketball, the Honors Program, and missions abroad, I have cultivated my faith and learned what it means to love the Lord with all my heart, mind, and soul. I have learned the value of humility and intentionality to serve others, whether on the court or in the classroom. As a member of the Tiger Family, I have also made connections on campus and in the Marshall community that will be life-long.”

Berry has been committed to community service throughout her time at ETBU. She volunteers her time and skills at Mission Marshall, Children’s Village of Tyler, THRIVE, HWY 69 MissionJacksonville, Bullard Little Dribblers Basketball Association, and Strutters/ Tyler Rose Parade. As a member of St. Timothy’s Anglican Church in Marshall, she actively engages in fellowship and service.

Twenty-seven young women participated in the event alongside their “little sisters,” underclassmen chosen by

the seniors. During the ceremony, each senior girl passed onto her little sister the symbols of the ideals and traditions of the University – the grace of the myrtle, the strength of the oak, and the ever-verdant life of the pine.

“Coordinating Senior Girl Call-Out is a cherished privilege, celebrating the character and achievements of our senior ladies,” Director of Student Life Laura Coursey (’17, ’21) said. “Erin Berry’s selection for Senior Girl Call-Out 2024 is a testament to her devotion to Christ and exemplary representation of our University values. Engaging with our senior girls during this event is always joyous as we witness the passing on of traditions and the growth of mentorship.”

Over the past 77 years, more than 1,000 young women have taken part in this beloved tradition. Today, the University community continues to honor senior women for their Christian character and academic excellence, upholding a longstanding tradition of recognition.

FOURTEEN STUDENTS WELCOMED INTO PSI CHI

This spring, fourteen students were inducted into Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology by the School of Natural and Social Sciences. Inductees include: Tiffany Bickford, Madison Dotson, Shawn Gallagher, Jasmine Henley, Sidney Jobe, Landon Kelley, Katie Melton, Gennie Patterson, Lexie Purcell, Rhonda Robinson, Adrianna Stark, Lillien Stowe, Kayleigh Supak, and Jenna Velasquez.

ETBU’S JACOB BUMPAS AWARDED SCHOLARSHIP

KMHT Radio’s Assistant Sports Director, ETBU senior sports communication major Jacob Bumpas, was awarded the Belo Scholarship from the Texas Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation.

“I wish I could take credit for finding Jacob, but he found us. He had recently discovered our station and realized we cover a ton of local, state, and national sports, something he was interested in. He emailed me to see if we had any available openings,” KMHT General Manager Ashli Dansby said.

Within two weeks of being hired, Bumpas began providing play-by-play for 2022-2023 Harleton High School baseball playoff games. He accurately and professionally called the team’s state championship-winning games, and HISD rewarded him with a state championship ring for his work.

Bumpas serves as the Voice of Marshall High School Lady Mavs Softball and leads that broadcast team. His leadership and

preparation are evident during every broadcast.

“I would like to thank the Texas Association of Broadcasters and the Texas Broadcast Education Foundation for selecting me for this prestigious scholarship,” Bumpas said.

Bumpas has a long history with radio. His dad, Bill Bumpas, works with KVNE in Tyler, Texas.

“I couldn’t have gotten here without the support of my loving parents, who have encouraged this dream of mine since I was a little boy,” Bumpas said. “Ultimately, I would like to thank my Lord and Savior, as all the glory goes to Him, and I wouldn’t be in this position if it weren’t for His faithfulness. God is good!”

“Thank you, Ashli, for the patience and kindness you have shown me over the past year working at KMHT. I have learned so much from you. I would not be in this position today without your guidance and mentorship. I also want to thank my communication professors at ETBU and the Athletic Communications Department for giving me experience in the sports world at the collegiate level.”

In addition to working at KMHT, Bumpas continues to assist ETBU in the Sports Information Department when available. He is active at Friendship Baptist Church in Marshall, where he assists with the youth, and at his home church in Tyler.

Bumpas credited Dansby, his ETBU professors, and ETBU Sports Information Director Adam Ledyard for providing mentorship during his school and radio education.

East Texas Baptist University inducted 67 students into the prestigious Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society (ALD) during a ceremony at ETBU’s Great Commission Center on March 21. A national honor society, ALD distinguishes first-year academic success with invitations to join extended only to students who obtain a 3.5 GPA or higher during the first semester of their freshman year.

The University has inducted 269 members since the installation of the

“During his time at KMHT, Jacob has proved to be talented, coachable, and enthusiastic while also possessing the work ethic and seriousness this job requires,” Dansby said.

ETBU HOLDS FOURTH INDUCTION OF ALPHA LAMBDA DELTA HONOR SOCIETY

ETBU chapter of ALD in March 2021.

The following students were inducted into the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society: Alexis Abart, Nickolas Anderson, Hannah Ayala, Georgia Baker, Jonah Brink, Andre Brown, Morgan Butler, Diana Canenquez, Pedro Cavazos, Katherine Christian, Logan Clark, Jessie Dibble, Madison Dotson, Mackenzie Fritsche, Ashlynn Galvin, Sage Gladding, Mackenzie Goode, Grace Green, Carson Greenwood, Justin Hayes, Peyton Hodge, Joshua Hurd, Kaitlyn Huzy, Davis Jackson, Emma Jamerson, Halee Johnson, Holly Jones,

Jessica Key, Carson Kondos, Elijah Lehmann, Makenna Lockhart, Kourtney Longenecker, Madeline Lozano, Travis Mason, Sawyer Matchett, Trenton Matlack, Amber McCarthy, Bryson Meeks, Makayla Menchue, Corrina Mendoza, Izabella Morales, London Morris, Ava Nieto, Ashlyn Nunnally, Macey Pool, Madison Queen, Addison Ratledge, Kaylan Rhodes, Audrey Salley, Faith Sechrist, Molly Segrest, Lani Sherman, Brooke Silvertooth, Laura Simpson, Adrianna Stark, Annsleigh Stewart, Lillien Stowe, Haylie Stum, Emilie Taylor, Carolina Valencia, Cheyenne Vick, Tyler West, Abigayle Whatley, Cadee Whitmire, Amy Williams, Daryn Wilmore, and Caleb Wilson.

SIXTEEN STUDENTS INDUCTED INTO PI GAMMA MU

The School of Natural and Social Sciences added 16 new members to Pi Gamma Mu, the International Honor Society in Social Sciences this spring. Inductees include: Cade Colwell, Corliss Emery, Corder Helmrick, Jadyn McClendon, Emma Morrison, Bejamin Muise, Gennie Patterson, Lauren Pember, Sarah Resendez, Holli Richards, Caleb Stone, Aiden Stormo, Gracyn Stroman, Kayleigh Supak, Anna Grace Thomas, and Jenna Velasquez.

ETBU’S HEATHER AUVIL EARNS SPOT IN INTERCOLLEGIATE HONORS BAND

Junior music education major Heather Auvil was selected to play French horn in the Intercollegiate Honor Band during the College Band Directors National Association Southwestern Division Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, from February 28 to March 2. Auvil not only received an invitation to play in the honor band, she also earned second chair out of eight in the horn section.

Chair of the Department of Music and Theatre Arts and Director of Bands, Dr. Nathan Phillips, traveled to Kansas City to support Auvil. “Being selected for the band is a big honor,” Dr. Phillips said. “We are very proud of Heather’s accomplishments.”

TEAGUE SCHOOL OF NURSING HOSTS PINNING CEREMONY

The Teague School of Nursing gathered with family and friends in the Great Hall of the Great Commission Center on May 10 to celebrate its biannual pinning ceremony. The ceremony marks the end of a student’s nursing program and transition into the community, nation, and world to minister to the needs of the patients they serve in the name of Jesus. The program included the pinning

of graduates, worship, the reciting of the class scripture, Hebrew 6:10, and the Florence Nightingale Pledge.

Fifteen students were pinned including: Summer Best, Abigail Bragg, Alison Carrion, Marissa Castro, Brittney Denton, Gracie Ewing, Lexi Marshall, Luke Maskevich, Kennedy Matthews, Bailey Munch, Meagan Parker, Zachary Rabb, Hannah Ramirez, Emilee Sellers, and Kiara Trejo. This year, Lexi Marshall was awarded the Spirit of Florence Nightingale Nursing Award, which is given to the graduate who consistently displayed the servanthood of Nightingale.

From left to right: Lexi Marshall, Dr. Nicole Fant.

SENIORS PRESENT RESEARCH AT HONORS SYMPOSIUM

After semesters of research, three seniors presented their honors projects on May 29. During an honor student’s third and fourth years, they embark on an in-depth research project on a topic of their choosing, under the supervision of a faculty member in their major. They spend four semesters working with their faculty supervisor as they engage in research and writing on their chosen topic in preparation to defend their project to a committee of three faculty members.

Erin Berry’s project, “Will Funny Chickens Cross the Road?: Humor Styles and First Impressions,” was supervised by Professor of Psychology Dr. Jennifer Mobley. Parker Boone’s project, “Strong from the Beginning: Examining the Shifts in the Debate over Federal Power in Virginia and South Carolina 1787-1833,” was supervised by Dean of the School of Christian Studies and Humanities and Sam B. Hall Professor of History Dr. Sandy Hoover. Libby Gear’s project, “Employee Turnover in Competitive Industries,” was supervised by Assistant Professor of Business Mitchell Korolewicz.

SENIOR ERIN BERRY WINS AWARD FROM SOUTHWESTERN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION

ETBU senior psychology major Erin Berry recently won the undergraduate research competition at the Southwestern Psychological Association (SWPA) conference in San Antonio, Texas. Berry’s project, “Will Funny Chickens Cross the Road?: Humor Styles and First Impressions,” secured her victory at the esteemed event.

Berry submitted her abstract for the competition in November 2023 under the guidance of her project supervisor, Professor of Psychology Dr. Jennifer Mobley. Selected as a finalist in December 2023, Berry presented her research at the SWPA’s annual conference in March.

The research evaluated whether a positive humor style, such as lighthearted jokes, will increase the sense of likability in a first impression and, inversely, if a negative humor style will decrease the sense of likability in a first impression.

The research also assessed the likability of two college students who did not know one another but shared a similar humor style.

“I wanted my research project to be something I was passionate about, would enjoy researching, and unique in the field,” Berry said. “I find joy in humor and often like to share jokes or puns during basketball games and practices

SIGMA THETA TAU ADDS

to relieve stress or connect with others. However, I questioned the consequences if a joke or humor is not well received by my teammates or incoming recruits. In considering the topic, I learned that there are four types of humor: two positive and two negative. However, there was a gap in the psychology literature distinguishing between types of humor styles that could be similar or dissimilar between two individuals during a first impression and the consequences if the humor style is positive or negative.”

Competing alongside finalists from Sam Houston State University, Angelo State University, and Oklahoma State University, Berry delivered a compelling presentation, culminating in her win at the undergraduate research competition.

“The Department of Behavioral Sciences adequately prepared me to present my work through a curriculum that provides ample time and opportunities to learn about research and writing and practice the presentation processes,” Berry said. “The department is tight-knit and full of faculty and staff committed to supporting individual research. Dr. Mobley helped me present my work and equipped me with the tools and resources to be successful. I appreciate her devotion to the Lord and the Kingdom of God through the field of psychology.”

This historic win marks the first time an ETBU student has achieved such recognition at the SWPA. The faculty of ETBU’s Department of Behavioral Sciences extend their congratulations to Berry for her outstanding achievement.

From top to bottom: Erin Berry, Parker Boone, Libby Gear

T

en students were welcomed into the ETBU chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Honor Society in March. Students inducted include: Alayna Andrews, Hannah Blaha, Perla Bravo, Haley Horton, Cayden Luce, Chainey Minter, Noah Pecory, Abigail Powell, Jenna Rasbury, and Avery Reid.

The Hilltop Brass, a student brass quintet from the ETBU Department of Music and Theatre Arts, performed at the 2024 Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) convention in San

HILLTOP BRASS PERFORMS AT TMEA CONVENTION

Antonio in February. The group submitted a recording to the TMEA performance selection committee in May 2023 and was notified in August 2023 of their inclusion in the roster of performers chosen to play at the convention. Hilltop Bass presented a thirty-minute concert on February 8 before a large, appreciative audience at

the TMEA convention. TMEA is one of the largest organizations of its kind, with 20,000 music educators and college students. At the 2024 TMEA convention, there were over 30,000 teachers, students, and family members.

The members of Hilltop Brass are Spencer Carey, trumpet; Mia Hoon, trumpet; Heather Auvil, horn; Beau Creech, trombone; and Colton Padgett, tuba. Hilltop Brass is directed by Dean of the School of Communication and Performing Arts and Professor of Music Dr. Douglas Lockard.

ETBU WELCOMES GUESTS FOR NIGHT TO SHINE

Smiling faces in glittery prom dresses and crisp suits filled Ornelas Student Center on February 9 for Night to Shine. Hosted by Marshall’s Immanuel Baptist Church, Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom night experience centered on God’s love for people with special needs ages 14 and older. Started in 2014 by the Tim Tebow Foundation, the event has honored thousands of those with disabilities around the world over the last decade.

ETBU students and athletic teams joined with community members to welcome the guests to the red carpet event, with some students serving as prom dates. The event, which included a meal and a night full of dancing, was not just a special memory for those in attendance, but a joy for Tigers who spent the evening with the guests.

“I really enjoyed helping with Night to Shine last year at New Beginnings and was excited to get the chance to help

again but on my own school campus,” sophomore music education major Charles Guillot said. “Being there was such a blessing, and I am thankful that I got to take part in making such a memorable night for so many. It’s a humbling

experience to be used to bring joy into another person’s life, and Night to Shine does that in a spectacular way.”

From left to right: Beau Creech, Mia Hoon, Colton Padgett, Heather Auvil, Spencer Carey.

An experienced member of East Texas Baptist University’s team received three awards earlier this year for her extraordinary dedication to students, the University, and the community. Director of Campus Services Debbie Rogers (’09) has been employed at ETBU for over 23 years. Rogers represents the University and the Greater Marshall Chamber of Commerce as an ambassador to local businesses and serves the people of Marshall and Harrison County in myriad other ways.

The Chamber of Commerce named

NINE ETBU FACULTY MEMBERS RECEIVE PROMOTIONS

Nine faculty at ETBU recently received promotions, including Dr. Angela Anima-Korang, Dr. Zachary Beck, Dr. Jennifer Mobley, Dr. Festus Obi, Dr. Derek Royer, Dr. Robin Rudd, Dr. Teresa Salazar, Dr. Chris Smith, and Dr. Lynette Vincent.

In order to receive a promotion, requirements established by the ETBU Faculty Promotion Committee must be met and evaluated. After reviewing the committee’s and deans’ of the respective schools recommendations and the candidate portfolios, school deans, and the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs provides the President with their recommendation. Then, under

MARSHALL ISD, CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HONOR ETBU’S DEBBIE ROGERS (’09)

Rogers the Employee of the Year at its Business and Industry Luncheon in January; moreover, the Chamber awarded her Ambassador of the Year at its spring banquet. Rogers expressed gratitude to her fellow members and called the chamber a “community builder.”

“It opens up the door to be able to share about our wonderful University and what we have to offer, and then it always sparks the most wonderful conversations.”

Bringing Rogers’ commitment to education into focus, Marshall High School Principal Matthew Gregory selected her in May for the school’s Spirit Award. Rogers graduated from Marshall High in 1987. The Marshall Education Foundation commended Rogers’ generosity to Marshall students and congratulated her on the award.

When asked about the importance of education, Rogers underscored the value

the authorization of the Board of Trustees, the President assigns academic ranks.

“Faculty promotions are a peer review process where faculty hold each other accountable for teaching and leading in ways that support ETBU’s mission,” Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Thomas Sanders said. “The critical areas of evaluation are Teaching and Student Development, Scholarship and Research, University Leadership, Christian Commitment, and Community Service.”

Dr. Anima-Korang was promoted to Associate Professor of Communication.

Dr. Anima-Korang joined ETBU as Assistant Professor of Communication and Director of the Master of Arts in

of exploring scholarship opportunities and seeking tutoring as needed. She also highlighted the character development she has witnessed among students in her years of coaching youth sports.

Rogers emphasized that it would be an “understatement” to say that she loves ETBU. “I love the opportunity God has given me to work here. It is such an honor to love, pray for, help guide, and be a cheerleader for every student that comes across my path. That’s what we all need in life — someone to remind us that God is good and His plan is always perfect.”

Rogers pointed to the eternal significance of being involved in the community.

“When the Lord calls me home, the only thing I want people to say about me is that she loved Jesus, and she served His people. If they can say that about me, what an honor it will be.”

Strategic Communication program in 2019. She holds a Master of Science in Mass Communication and a Doctor of Philosophy in Mass Communication & Media Arts from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Southern Illinois University Carbondale, respectively. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the Catholic University College of Ghana.

Dr. Zachary Beck was promoted to Professor of English. Dr. Beck attended the University of Florida for his undergraduate and master’s programs. His research interests lie in American literature, modernism, and Christian

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From left to right: Dr. Lynnette Vincent, Dr. Festus Obi, Dr. Chris Smith, Dr. Derek Royer, Dr. Zachary Beck, Dr. Robin Rudd, Dr. Jennifer Mobley, Dr. Angela Anima-Korang. Not pictured: Dr. Teresa Salazar.

Dr. Antay Waters (’08), an Assistant Professor in the ETBU Teague School of Nursing, has been honored as one of the inaugural University of Texas at Tyler Alumni 40 Under 40. This prestigious recognition celebrates her exceptional contributions to nursing education and practice.

Dr. Waters, a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner, certified nurse midwife, certified nurse educator, and certified registered nurse first assistant at CHRISTUS St. Michael, brings a wealth of diverse experience to her roles. She also owns a surgical first assist practice in Fort Worth, Texas, reflecting her commitment to excellence in patient care.

Her impressive academic journey includes a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Religion from ETBU, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington, a Master of Science in Nursing Administration from UT Tyler, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, among other qualifications.

A leader in women’s health, Dr. Waters has presented and published extensively on topics such as improving maternal and neonatal outcomes, postoperative pain management, cardiovascular health, and healthcare risk management. She recently published a book focused on Electronic Fetal Monitoring (C-EFM) Certification Review.

Dr. Waters’ passion for global health is reflected in her volunteer clinician work with Refuge International in Guatemala. The organization works to improve the lives of Guatemalans through healthcare, nutrition, clean water and education.

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literary theory. He received his Ph.D. from Baylor University, with a specialty in American Modernism. Dr. Beck joined ETBU in 2015 as an Associate Professor of English. In January, Dr. Beck was nominated for the prestigious Texas Minnie Stevens Piper Professor Award for exceptional teaching in higher education.

Dr. Jennifer Mobley was promoted to Professor of Psychology. She joined ETBU’s faculty as an Assistant Professor of Psychology in 2017. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ouachita Baptist University, and a Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology from the University of Tennessee. Dr. Mobley has served as an advisor for Psi Chi, the international honor society for psychology, from 2012 to the present.

Dr. Festus Obi was promoted to Associate Professor of Criminal Justice. He is a professional member of the American Criminal Justice Sciences and the American Society of Criminology. Dr. Obi earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Columbia College, Master of Arts in Behavioral Science from California State University Dominguez Hills, and Ph.D.

DR. ANTAY WATERS (’08) NAMED TO UT TYLER’S INAUGURAL 40 UNDER 40 LIST

in Administration of Justice from Texas Southern University.

Dr. Derek Royer, who serves as the Chair of the Department of Biology at ETBU, was promoted to Associate Professor of Biology. Dr. Royer obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Oklahoma Baptist University and a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Dr. Robin Rudd (’85), the Chair of the Department of Mathematics at ETBU, was promoted to Professor of Mathematics. Dr. Rudd earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from East Texas Baptist University, a Master of Science from the University of Texas at Tyler, and a Ph.D. from the University of Kentucky. She is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators, and School Science and Mathematics Association. She was named the Minnie Stevens Piper Professor nominee for ETBU in 2018.

Dr. Teresa Salazar, who joined East Texas Baptist University in 2018, was promoted to Associate Professor of

Mathematics. Dr. Salazar completed her Ph.D. in Mathematics Education at Texas State University, Master of Science in Mathematics at Texas A&M International University in Laredo, and Bachelor of Science in Political Science, Mathematics, and Social Studies Education from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Dr. Chris Smith was promoted to Associate Professor of Worship Leadership. Dr. Smith holds a Ph.D. in Worship and Hymnology from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Master of Music in Church Music and a Bachelor of Music in Guitar Performance, both from Samford University. He is the Associate Worship Minister at Oakland Heights Baptist Church in Longview.

Dr. Lynette Vincent was promoted to Associate Professor of Music Education. Dr. Vincent has a Ph.D. in Music Education from the University of North Texas, a Master of Music Education from Lamar University, and a Bachelor of Music from Lamar University. Additionally, she is a Kodály-endorsed teacher, has three levels of Kodály training from the Kodály Institute of North Texas, which is based at UNT and SMU, and Orff Level I from SMU.

East Texas Baptist University hosted the Christian Association of Student Leaders (CASL) Conference on January 18-20. The CASL Conference is a dynamic platform that nurtures the intersection of leadership and faith, empowering students to lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact on their campuses and communities.

The event was supported by the Baptist General Convention of Texas and featured student leaders from ETBU, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, HardinSimmons University, Howard Payne University, Houston Christian University,

CASL CONFERENCE DRAWS SCHOOLS ACROSS THE REGION

Oklahoma Baptist University, and Dallas Baptist University.

Fred “Chip” Luter, Senior Associate Pastor at Franklin Avenue Baptist Church in New Orleans, La., led the opening session, motivating students to equip themselves with the armor of God to make a positive impact for the Lord.

Dr. Kelly King, Women’s Minister at Quail Springs Baptist Church in Oklahoma City, delivered the morning keynote address, setting the tone for a day filled with workshops and round table events.

Todd Kaunitz (’03), an ETBU alumnus and Lead Pastor at New Beginnings Baptist Church in Longview, Texas, shared valuable insights during the afternoon general session, highlighting the importance of surrender in achieving

SCHOOL OF CHRISTIAN STUDIES AND HUMANITIES INDUCTS NEW HONOR SOCIETY MEMBERS

The School of Christian Studies and Humanities held its annual honors society reception in March at the Marshall Grand.

The Department of Christian Ministry inducted fifteen new members into Theta Alpha Kappa, the National Honor Society of Religious Studies and Theology. Students honored include: Leslie Ahmad, Levi Baird, Brody Bradshaw, Kaila Davis, Kilee Davis, Corliss Emery, Bailee Kitchen, Trenton Matlack, Nikolas Roudkovski, Hallie Sadler, Joshua Sewell, Julianna Silguero, Chelsea Stiles, Jayde Trimnal, and Nixon Whitaker.

perseverance in the Kingdom life.

The concluding events featured roundtable discussions, worship, and a closing charge by ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn. Dr. Blackburn emphasized the role of spiritual leaders in fanning the flame of believers and using their gifts to build up the body of Christ.

CASL, hosted by a different university each year, facilitates exposure to various leadership styles across the region. This rotation allows participants to travel, gain insights from different campus leadership teams and contribute to a vibrant exchange of ideas. As the CASL Conference concluded, East Texas Baptist University handed over the reins to the 2025 host, Dallas Baptist University, continuing the tradition of fostering faith-based leadership across institutional campuses.

The Department of History and Political Science had five students meet the criteria to earn an invitation into Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society. Students inducted include: Parker Boone, Spencer Carey, Tiffany Merino, Baylie Perkins, and Gracyn Stroman.

The Department of Languages and Literature added eight students to the membership of Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society. Students inducted include: Timothy Anderson, Elise Bach, Erin Berry, Corliss Emery, Andrea Latham, Ruby Jane Luce, Faith Pratt, and Sarah Resendez.

CASL committee members from left to right: Brianna White, Kendall Little, Nakayla Holloway, Parker Boone, Kara Dean, and Charles Guillot. Not pictured: Avery Abshier, Abraham Contreras.

ETBU SECURES EDA GRANT FOR ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION IN MARSHALL

East Texas Baptist University was awarded a $475,000.00 grant from the United States Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA). The EDA has awarded these funds to enable ETBU to address economic challenges in Marshall and the surrounding region by developing and implementing long-term economic revitalization strategies to serve the local economy. This strategic investment is poised to foster sustained economic advancement and vitality within the region for years to come.

An award of this magnitude from the EDA is a significant achievement for ETBU’s Synergy Park, allowing it to better serve the economic development needs of Marshall and Harrison County. With this funding, ETBU now has the opportunity to implement new, market-driven programs to serve both local business owners and workforce participants while expanding the array of services already offered at Synergy Park.

“Receiving this grant from the Economic Development Administration is a tremendous blessing and a milestone moment for ETBU and Synergy Park,” ETBU Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Administrative Affairs and Director of Synergy Park Scott McCurdy said. “This funding further reinforces our commitment to serve the economic development of Marshall and Harrison County as we seek to enhance our community by serving our neighbors for the glory of God. This award was made possible by the overwhelming support Marshall has shown for Synergy Park and the excellent guidance provided by our regional EDA representatives.”

Since opening in April 2023, Synergy Park has quickly become a driver of economic revitalization in downtown Marshall. Built in 1973 as the First National Bank of Marshall, the 48,000 square foot building now serves as the headquarters for 13 local corporations, five of which are non-profits. Synergy Park has also impacted many local startups, with all five WORKSHIP offices currently rented with two organizations on a waitlist for the space. WORKSHIP, the co-0working component of Synergy Park, offers individuals the opportunity to utilize fully-furnished offices, high-speed internet, printing services, and a professional business location at a minimal cost. WORKSHIP allows startups and small businesses the opportunity to grow their clientele and develop their strategies without the fixed costs often associated with such an endeavor.

“ETBU’s vision for Synergy Park was to create an innovative center for educational and professional activity within downtown Marshall, catalyzing further economic development,” ETBU President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn said. “We are honored to partner with the EDA in this vital work as we strive to serve the region’s workforce and develop cooperative alliances among educational institutions, businesses, industries, and non-profit organizations throughout East Texas.”

From Workforce Training, WORKSHIP, and event space, to networking opportunities with local industry and community leaders at their regional headquarters and more, Synergy Park is about building a community of collaboration around a shared desire for excellence.

LIFE ONthe Hill

Experience life on the Hill with a look back at the Spring 2024 semester.

BAPTIST STUDENT MINISTRY PRESENTS THE GOSPEL TO YOUNG EAST TEXANS

Avery Abshier knew as a young girl that she wanted to be a missionary. Even well before Abshier attended East Texas Baptist University, she looked forward to going on an odyssey to Africa to share the Gospel and bring people closer to Jesus Christ.

“I was seeing the Lord working on my heart about mission work and what it’s like to obey God even when it’s scary,” Abshier said, discussing her childhood dream of going on international missions.

However, as Abshier grew older, she felt the Lord placing a different call on her life. In her sophomore year, she got involved in ETBU’s Baptist Student Ministry’s Kids Club outreach, which seeks to bring the Gospel to Marshall area kids in low-income communities.

Kids Club has been ongoing for decades and includes snacks, basketball, Bible study, prayer, and more. When Abshier got involved, she gained a new outlook on the needs of those in the vicinity of ETBU’s campus. While East Texas is rich with places of worship and filled with people of faith, there are still those who have not heard the Truth.

“Kids Club has softened my heart for local missions. The Lord’s heart is for all His people. I have been able to see what brokenness is five minutes from ETBU’s campus,” Abshier said.

Abshier now leads the outreach and remarked on its positive influence in her life. She treasures the time she gets to spend hearing kids talk about their lives and watching their hearts open to the wonder of their Creator. Abshier lauded ETBU for doing a “beautiful” job providing gateways to service opportunities for the University’s students.

“My classes have really prepared me for missions, but I think campus leadership positions have also been instrumental. Being a resident assistant has helped me learn how to live an interruptible life and steward the time I have well.”

Dr. David Griffin, director of the ETBU BSM, said bringing people to faith in Jesus Christ is at the heart of the weekly trips. Illustrating the longevity of the ministry, he said the parents of many prospective ETBU students participated in Kids Club when they were studying at the University.

“We want to show them the love of Christ. We want to teach them the Gospel,” Dr. Griffin said.

Dr. Griffin explained that there are always new faces as families move in and out of the apartment complexes reached by the ministry. He noted that another objective of the outreach is to introduce area students to the possibility of attending the University.

“Hopefully, some of these children will grow up and come to ETBU because of the ministry of Kids Club,” Dr. Griffin said.

Dr. Griffin emphasized that Kids Club is always looking for volunteers. He added that there is a need for more male volunteers due to the value of providing role models for boys.

“Our hope is that we would have more college students from ETBU step up to engage, that there would be more students that would become faithful leaders in the ministry, and that they would catch a vision to serve our local children and just keep coming back,” Dr. Griffin said.

Kids Club reaches kids of all ages, and the dynamics can often be challenging.

“Kids Club has softened my heart for local missions. The Lord’s heart is for all His people.”

-Avery Abshier

discipleship that has begun to happen with a few of our male ETBU volunteers,” Abshier said.

Abshier explained that Kids Club can be “organized chaos” at times, but volunteers see the fruits of their labor as kids grow in character.

“We’ve been able to teach the children manners, those physical boundaries that translate with them knowing their worth, their right to say no, and that they are image bearers who are worthy of respect,” Abshier said.

of His message on the importance of the next generation. Matthew 10:42 teaches, “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”

Volunteers have taught many of the kids how to speak more graciously and treat others with dignity.

“Initially, we found that boys did not respect women or authority, so those two things together were quite the recipe every week when we would show up,” Abshier said.

Fighting and profanity are common among some of the kids reached by the ministry, and a lack of male leadership is a noticeable problem. However, Abshier has been inspired by her fellow ministry leaders and is encouraged by kids’ spiritual growth. “Boys consistently come to Kids Club, and it is so sweet to see the

Abshier talked about how Kids Club volunteers ministered to a 14-year-old boy whose friend had tragically passed away. His testimony underscored the weight of grief that many young children and teens carry. The ministry provides an opportunity for ETBU students to share the hope of salvation and eternity in Heaven.

One of the elements of Kids Club that Abshier highlighted is the importance of prayer. She has prioritized making sure the weekly event incorporates prayer in its activities to focus everyone’s hearts on the Lord. Reflecting on the total impact of the Kids Club outreach, Abshier pointed to the uniqueness of each child.

“Every single person has such an interesting story, and God’s the one writing it and a part of it.”

“There’s the reality of sin, and there’s the reality of brokenness. Then there’s the reality of Jesus when He steps into our brokenness,” Abshier said.

Kids Club calls to mind one of Jesus’ admonitions in the Gospel of Matthew. As Jesus gave instructions to His disciples on ministering to the lost, He centered part

A Journey of Compassion

ETBU NURSING, PREMED, AND SPANISH STUDENTS SERVE IN SAN RAYMUNDO, GUATEMALA

In the heart of Central America, ETBU students from the Nursing, Pre-Med, and Spanish programs embarked on a medical mission to San Raymundo, Guatemala, through a partnership with Refuge International through ETBU’s Global Study and Serve program.

Refuge International works to improve the lives of Guatemalans through healthcare, nutrition, clean water, and education.

The journey, marked by grace and gratitude, began with a 13-hour travel day, setting the stage for a week of transformative experiences and dedicated service. Upon arrival, the 14 students and four ETBU faculty members immediately set to work, transforming a three-story concrete building without air conditioning into a MASH-style hospital. Despite the heat and heavy lifting, the group’s

They prepared thousands of medications to provide much-needed healthcare to the local community.

Dr. Antay Waters (’08), Assistant Professor in the Teague School of Nursing, shared her reflections on the experience.

“I quickly realized how much I take for granted as a nurse practitioner/nurse midwife in the United States regarding diagnostic testing and therapeutic treatments. It was an excellent reminder that I don’t actually need many of the tests we routinely order to make a diagnosis because I can competently diagnose a patient based on clinical presentation and assessment. I look forward to continuing to impart this skill to our nursing students this week as they serve alongside me in my clinic.”

The students prepared cards with Bible verses in English and Spanish for the patients. They prayed for one another, embodying the spirit of Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Senior nursing major Julia Lamb expressed her awe and gratitude for the opportunity. “Working in the postanesthesia care unit, I learned so much and got to practice many skills,” she said. “The medical team was kind and taught us many things. It has been one of the coolest experiences I have ever been a part of.”

A junior criminal justice major, Kane Sander found the experience particularly enriching. “As a Spanish student, this has been a great experience. I have spent lots of time shadowing the other interpreters, learning different words and phrases, and learning more about the Guatemalan culture. My favorite part of being a Spanish student in Guatemala is communicating with the locals and being able to give them directions on when and how to take their prescriptions. It is an amazing feeling to apply what I have learned at ETBU and apply it in different parts of the world.”

The trip concluded with a visit to Antigua for sightseeing, a bittersweet farewell to the clinic, and a chance to immerse fully in Guatemalan culture. Madison Reid reflected on the impact of the experience.

“Leaving the clinic was hard, but it was a testament to how God humbles our hearts when we serve,” she said. “I am eternally grateful for this experience and the relationships we built.”

ETBU’s Global Study and Serve team worked with compassion, humility, and dedication throughout their time in Guatemala. Their journey in San Raymundo was a powerful reminder of the impact of servant leadership and the profound connections forged through acts of kindness and care.

“The medical team was kind and taught us many things. It has been one of the coolest experiences I have ever been a part of.”

-Julia Lamb

Hilltop

Spanning the States

SPREADING GOD’S LOVE FROM TEXAS BEACHES TO NEW YORK

STREETS

Students with the Baptist Student Ministry (BSM) at East Texas Baptist University were hard at work this spring spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ, following the Great Commission from Matthew 28. They served others from Texas to the international hub of New York City.

Beach Reach in South Padre

In March, students went to South Padre Island and spent spring break ministering to area residents and college vacationers. BSM participants partnered with other missionaries for “Beach Reach,” a multiweek outreach started more than four decades ago to share the light of Jesus Christ. This year’s coastal mission, which was led by 15 ETBU BSM students along with BSM programs from across Texas, served over 15,000 pancake breakfasts and provided over 16,000 “safe rides,” according to figures provided by Texas Baptists.

Director of ETBU’s Baptist Student Ministry, Dr. David Griffin, recognized the “incredible” BSM students for using their spring break to serve the South Padre Island community in a “physically and emotionally exhausting way.”

Texas Baptists also reported that there were nearly 12,000 Gospel conversations and prayer meetings with over 9,000 people. During the week, 276 people accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior, and 94 people recommitted themselves to their faith. Beach Reach saw 79 people be baptized.

BOUNCE Mission in Houston

Elsewhere in Texas, BSM students served in the Houston suburb of Katy on a BOUNCE mission. Texas Baptists designed the BOUNCE program as both a disaster recovery mission and a chance for BSM students to serve.

Students built privacy fencing for a local single mother and her kids and ministered to high school girls who volunteered alongside them on the building project.

Dean of Spiritual Life Scott Stevens underscored the University’s commitment to BOUNCE mission work.

“You never know the impact you will have when you go on mission,” Dr. Stevens said. “The physical work was accomplished, which was great and an amazing benefit for the mom. But the

relationships that were built and the conversations that were had will be used by God. I’m so glad ETBU provides these opportunities for our students.”

Andrea Latham, a junior English major, called BOUNCE a “unique opportunity.”

“This is my second year serving with BOUNCE during spring break. I enjoy serving people through construction and building things,” Latham said. “It was special this year to be able to pour into the young women who were working with us. The Lord used us in a way I wasn’t expecting. We were really able to connect with the high school students and mentor them.”

Serving in New York City

BSM continued its work later in the spring in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, where they served meals and went on prayer walks throughout the area. The students were hosted by Metropolitan Baptist Church. The group also worked with a local congregation in Red Hook, Redemption Church, pastored by Edwin Pacheco.

ETBU graduate Faith Smith (’23) described the dense, fast-paced lifestyle of New York City.

“The streets of New York are filled with life. Everyone seems to be out and about, whether that is for commuting to work, dining, shopping, entertainment, or fun,” Smith said. “There is so much diversity, variation, and enriched culture throughout this city, and everywhere you look, you can capture a small essence of what that is like. I love that so many cultures and people can be represented in one place.”

Sophomore Christian studies student Allen O’Daniel-Diaz said that the team’s mission work was met with enthusiasm by those in the community.

“When we opened the food line, the people from the neighborhood were already there and lined up around the corner. As each person came through the line it was a joy to serve them in Jesus’ name,” O’Daniel-Diaz said.

Discussing BSM’s work in Brooklyn, sophomore nursing student Kayleigh Park highlighted the needs of Metropolitan Baptist Church.

“We worked diligently all day and got so much accomplished. Our host church is an older church that is in need of prayer. This church took a big hit in membership

when COVID hit,” Park said. “They have not recovered, and the members of the church have been working so hard to reach their community.”

BSM team members distributed approximately 1,300 gift bags and flyers during their week in New York. Dr. Griffin said a last-minute change of plans precluded further work at Redemption Church on Friday the week of the mission, but the team was able to take an impromptu excursion to Manhattan.

Reflecting on the day, Dr. Griffin said, “We didn’t have an official mission, but we took Jesus with us as we went sightseeing. We stopped and prayed at a few key locations, praying that God would move in this great city.”

The BSM team’s mission work in Brooklyn, New York, encapsulates Christian servant leadership and the power of community outreach. Their efforts in the Red Hook neighborhood, alongside Metropolitan Baptist Church and Redemption Church, brought tangible support and spiritual encouragement to those they served.

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

Ancient Roads, Modern Faith

ETBU STUDENTS EMBARK ON GLOBAL STUDY AND SERVE TRIP TO GREECE

In May, more than 20 students, faculty, and staff from ETBU went on a profound journey of faith, learning, and service as part of the University’s Global Study and Serve program. The trip was led by Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Thomas Sanders, Professor of Christian Ministry Dr. Warren Johnson, and Honors Program Director and Professor of English Dr. Zachary Beck.

The adventure began with an early morning visit to the church of St. Demetrius in Thessaloniki. Then, the group went to Philippi, a stunning and sacred site that set the tone for the days ahead.

The group then explored the ancient ruins of Philippi, walking the roads where Paul once proclaimed the Gospel. They also saw the prison where he was held, a powerful reminder of the resilience of faith.

“We had lunch in Kavala, right by the sea, and later visited a museum in Amphipolis with artifacts from the first century,” junior

speech communication major Ruby Jane Luce said. “The bus ride back through the Greek countryside was the perfect way to end our day.”

The following day, the group drove to Vergina, the ancient capital of Macedonia, to visit the tomb of King Philip II.

“Seeing the artifacts, especially the gold cloth and sculptures, brought history to life,” graduate student Chen Xingwen said.

While tracing Paul’s steps, Xingwen found the day’s highlight in Berea (now Veria), where Paul once preached. “The Bible speaks so highly of the Bereans for their eagerness to receive and examine the Scriptures. Despite the economic hardships the city faces today, visiting the memorial site for St. Paul reminded me that, with God, anything is possible. Great things can happen, just as they did 2000 years ago.”

Senior Christian ministry major Ben Fahl reflected on the next leg of their journey to Corinth. “Standing where Paul defended the Gospel to the Roman government was surreal,” Fahl said. “Seeing the ancient shops of Priscilla and Aquila and the canal dividing the land was incredible.”

The day continued with a visit to the iconic Acropolis. “Reading the end of Acts

17 in the shadow of the Parthenon made Paul’s words about the people’s dedication to religion so poignant,” Fahl added. “It was a stark reminder of how lost people can be despite their efforts to find hope.”

Grace Green, a freshman rehabilitative science major, found a unique perspective during their day-long cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina islands. “I struck up conversations with strangers from all over the world, and it hit me how, despite our different backgrounds, we all shared the same experience,” Grace reflected. “For a few hours, we were just a group of people marveling at God’s creation together.”

These moments of connection stood out to her as a beacon of hope. “Amid all the conflicts and disagreements in the world, moments like these remind us of our shared humanity. We laughed, ate, and enjoyed the beauty of God’s creation as a community,” Green said.

Throughout their trip, the ETBU students followed the same paths as the Apostle Paul, deepening their faith and understanding of early Christian history. They connected with the local culture, learned from historical sites, and found new perspectives on their beliefs.

“This trip was a beautiful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the power of community,” Luce said. “We were not just students on a trip; we were part of a larger story, walking in the footsteps of those who came before us and leaving our own marks of faith and service.”

Bringing Brontë to Life

A COMPELLING BLEND OF MUSIC, DRAMA, AND FAITH IN ETBU THEATRE'S SEASON FINALE

Under the warm lights of Memorial City Hall in downtown Marshall, East Texas Baptist University closed out its 2023-2024 production season with “Jane Eyre,” a tragic-poetic musical drama adapted from Charlotte Brontë’s beloved novel of the same name. From April 18 to April 21, the stage became the setting for Jane Eyre’s powerful journey of love, struggle, and selfdiscovery. Directed by Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts Rouba Palmer, with musical direction by Assistant Professor of Music Judith Shelton, the production brought Brontë’s classic story to life with striking performances and a live orchestra conducted by Assistant Professor of Music Dr. Pat Antinone. The show captured the essence of Victorian England while emphasizing timeless themes of faith, morality, and perseverance.

The musical follows the journey of Jane Eyre, an orphaned young woman, as she navigates through a tumultuous life filled with hardship, love, and self-discovery. Raised in harsh conditions at Lowood School, Jane grows into a strong-willed and independent individual. She takes on a governess position at Thornfield Hall, where she meets the enigmatic Mr. Rochester. Despite their differences in social status and demeanor, Jane and Rochester form a deep emotional connection.

As their relationship blossoms, Jane discovers dark secrets lurking within Thornfield Hall, including the presence of Rochester’s mad wife, Bertha. Forced to confront her own principles and desires, Jane faces difficult choices that challenge her integrity and resilience. Throughout the musical, themes of love, morality, and the search for identity are explored against

the backdrop of Victorian England.

With poignant musical numbers and powerful performances, the show captured the essence of Brontë’s timeless story, offering audiences a compelling portrayal of one woman’s quest for independence and belonging in a society bound by conventions and constraints. The cast and crew also worked diligently to emphasize several strong Christian themes infused throughout the production.

“Forgiveness, redemption, judgment, mercy, and how God tempers the former with the latter to visit us with salvation are some of the more prominent ideas highlighted in the show,” Shelton said. “It’s been my desire to direct this show for a very long time, so getting to direct the music was a joyful experience for me. The cast was receptive to my suggestions and quick to respond to the musical needs and direction I was moving. The challenge primarily lay in making such a large score and such heavy singing material accessible to the students.”

Assistant Professor of Theatre Arts Jake Yenish oversaw the technical and scenic designs of the production and shared how the combined involvement of cast and crew, students, and faculty ultimately brought the compelling and creative show to life.

“As a liberal arts institution, our students have the opportunity to be deeply involved in as many aspects of the production as they’re willing to,” Yenish said. “Looking at the playbill, the names of the cast also appear in the production staff, and vice versa. Our students are the primary motivating source for the work we are able to accomplish. It is their sweat and their muscle that physically produced the design of the show.”

A Voice of Progress

A LOOK INTO DR. ANA PAULA MUMY’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE FIELD OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY

Born in Brazil, Dr. Ana Paula Mumy immigrated to the United States with her parents at the age of 10. At the time, she spoke only the primary language used by 98% of Brazil’s population—Portuguese. With no previous exposure to any other language, Dr. Mumy, with the help of her pocket dictionary and eagerness to learn, went on to gain English and Spanish as her second and third languages.

“When you’re young and fully immersed in a new language, you tend to learn very quickly,” Dr. Mumy said.

Today, her presence has been transformative in the field of speechlanguage pathology, and she is quick to

point out how her experiences at a young age drove her to pursue opportunities that illuminated her career path.

“I earned my undergraduate degree in Spanish, and I thought I was going to be a linguist,” Dr. Mumy said. “That’s the only thing I could imagine doing just because of my love of language acquisition. I didn’t even know about the field of speechlanguage pathology. But then one of my brothers married a speech-language pathologist, and she told me more about the profession—that’s how I discovered it.”

Mumy went on to earn a Master of Science in Communication Disorders from the University of Texas at Dallas as well as a Doctor of Speech-Language

Pathology from the University of Kansas. She continued to develop a passion for working with individuals across the lifespan to address issues related to speech and language—from young children who have experienced developmental hurdles to senior adults who have encountered problems that impaired cognition and language.

Working with toddlers up to teenagers has been the primary domain for Dr. Mumy throughout her career, but because of her trilingual ability, she has also invested more than 15 years of her time working with bilingual families.

“In our field, around 8% of speechlanguage pathologists (SLPs) would be

considered bilingual speech-language providers,” Dr. Mumy said. “In the hundreds of thousands of SLPs nationwide, only a small portion can provide services for bilingual families. So much of what I did in the first 15 years of the profession was serving as a consultant and evaluating bilingual kids.”

Years later, Dr. Mumy faced new challenges that pointed her to another area of speech-language pathology— stuttering.

“It’s hard to specialize in any one area in this field—you come out of grad school as a generalist,” Dr. Mumy said. “When my son started to stutter, I realized that was an area I was not well-versed in. I needed to understand everything there was to learn about stuttering, so I started taking webinars and doing things on my own. I went to a week-long summer camp for youth who stutter, and it completely changed my life. At that point, I didn’t know which direction things were going to go with my son, but I just dove in.”

Dr. Mumy became heavily involved in the stuttering community almost overnight and even led a chapter of the National Stuttering Association. Almost a year later, her son’s stuttering began to resolve, but consistent facial movements and grimacing were still present. It was then that he was diagnosed with Tourette’s.

Now, in his teenage years, the motor tics are hardly noticeable, and he is more than equipped to educate others on the condition.

“We never wanted him to internalize it in a negative way,” Dr. Mumy said. “We did a lot of coaching with him and his teachers. He can talk about it openly, and he doesn’t feel ashamed.”

While her son no longer stuttered, Dr. Mumy was fully invested in a new population and dedicated to an area of speech-language pathology from which she could not depart.

“There was no turning back,” Dr. Mumy said. “I wanted to serve children, teens, and adults who stutter. My sister has twin boys who stutter, so we’re sure there’s a family history of the condition, but we can’t identify where because it’s not something that would have been talked about in Brazilian culture.”

After seeing gaps in their professions related to the stuttering community and understanding the challenges faced by

school-based SLPs, the siblings felt called to better equip SLPs, teachers, families, and parents. Today, Dr. Mumy serves as Board President for Spero Stuttering, a nonprofit she co-founded with her sister, Dr. Rachel Dawson. Spero Stuttering seeks to help, empower, and advocate for the stuttering community and their families by equipping those who work with people who stutter.

“There’s a huge difference between an SLP who understands stuttering and has actual clinical experience and training beyond grad school and one who doesn’t,” Dr. Mumy said. “So, what we’re doing as an organization is training SLPs to serve the stuttering community, and we’re connecting families in need to those SLPs who have invested that extra time and effort to understand the condition. We’re helping raise awareness about what stuttering is and what it’s not.”

Spero Stuttering offers trainings, enrichment programs, book clubs, advocacy efforts, community engagement, and various other resources to graduate students and SLPs, and families nationwide. Stipends are available to any certified and licensed SLP working with individuals who stutter, and professionals who complete a certain number of continuing education hours are granted the Ally of Stuttering® Seal, a designation created by the organization that serves as a way of visibly identifying certain SLPs as invested in the stuttering community. The organization currently boasts more than 100 SLPs who are designated stuttering allies, all listed in a national database that connects families in the stuttering community to SLP professionals.

In addition to her continued leadership in Spero Stuttering, Dr. Mumy now serves as the Director of the William B. Dean

Above: Dr. Ana Paula Mumy is recognized with the Burtis-Vogel-Elkins Community Service Award at the Texas Speech-LanguageHearing Association (TSHA) 2024 Annual Convention and Exhibition. Below, left: Dr. Mumy and her sister, Dr. Rachel Dawson. Below, right: Dr. Mumy receives 2022 Professional of the Year award from the National Stuttering Association.

Speech-Language Pathology program and Associate Professor for East Texas Baptist University. Before joining the ETBU community in 2023, she served as a Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of the Language Acquisition Preschool at the University of Kansas and as a speech-language pathologist and consultant for various school districts and private practices. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, a Texas License in Speech-Language Pathology, and is a member of the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA). For her initiatives and advocacy work in the stuttering community through Spero Stuttering, Dr. Mumy received the 2022 Professional of the Year award from the National Stuttering Association and, in Spring 2024, was honored by TSHA with the Burtis-Vogel-Elkins Community Service Award.

“Dr. Mumy is a great example of a campus leader who models Christian servant leadership in life and work,” Provost and Vice President for Academics Dr. Thomas Sanders said. “These behaviors, actions, and attitudes are often overlooked by culture. We celebrate this award and her contributions to our campus and the field of speech-language pathology.”

Dr. Mumy will oversee ETBU’s newly added Master of Science in SpeechLanguage Pathology program, with classes set to begin in the Spring and Fall of 2025. With nearly 25 years of experience in speech-language pathology to draw from, she is working diligently to ensure graduate students leave prepared for professional roles.

“There will be a lot of collaboration between myself and the Clinical Director of the William B. Dean, M.D. Center for Language and Literacy Development,” Dr. Mumy said. “We must ensure that whatever we teach academically directly applies to what is happening on the ground. We have been strategic in our curriculum planning to make sure students have, for example, the articulation disorders course and the language disorders course in their first semester

because we know that will likely be the bulk of what they face in the clinic.”

While her journey has not been free from bumps in the road, Dr. Mumy credits the Lord’s steady hand guiding her path and expresses gratitude to her late parents, Genaro and Maria Souza, for ensuring she held on to her native language at an early age and for instilling in her strong values and faith.

“I just feel such a sense of peace that this is what the Lord has equipped me to do,” she shared. “It was very important to my mom that we maintained our ability to speak Portuguese when we moved to the U.S. I think, intuitively, she knew that if we lost that, we would have become strangers in our own home. Shortly after she passed away in 2019, I was invited to speak at the Brazilian Stuttering Association Conference in Brazil, and it was a full circle moment to be standing there realizing that it was because of her that I could even be on that stage with the ability to articulate my message in Portuguese. Nothing is by accident—I felt her presence, and I know that God orchestrated this path from the very beginning. When I look back on my life, Romans 11:36 always comes to mind: ’For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever.’”

ETBU’s Master of Science in SpeechLanguage Pathology will be a 54-credit hour program consisting of 36 hours, including 18 hours of clinical practicum. The William B. Dean, M.D. Center for Language and Literacy Development, housed at ETBU’s Synergy Park in downtown Marshall, will provide onsite clinical practicum opportunities for ETBU students and a speech-language clinic for the local community. The program will be taught in a two-academic year time frame (22 months), including two fall semesters, a summer semester with two terms, and two spring semesters. Learn more about the new program at www.ETBU. edu/MSSLP. ETBU’s speech-language pathology graduate program is actively accepting applications at www.csdcas.org.

First: Dr. Mumy with ETBU colleagues Dr. Kate Mead and Dr. Angela Anima-Korang. Second: Dr. Mumy with Brazilian colleagues Daniela Zackiewicz and Luciana Contesini. Third: Dr. Mumy with father, Genaro Souza. Fourth: Dr. Mumy and Dr. Dawson at Spero Meet & Greet with NASCAR driver and person who stutters, Mason Massey. Fifth: Dr. Mumy with NBA player and person who stutters, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, at the Kansas Speech-Language-Hearing Association conference.

Greatness Revealed

ETBU

CELEBRATES

SPRING 2024 TIGER GRADUATES

“Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done, and great our rejoicing through Jesus the Son; But purer, and higher, and greater will be our wonder, our victory, when Jesus we see.” These are the final words of the University’s theme hymn sung by faculty, staff, students, graduates, and families during the East Texas Baptist University’s Spring 2024 commencement ceremony processional. It’s also the same hymn that echoes through Baker Chapel to open convocation each fall, serving as both a greeting at the start of the academic year and a final reminder to those who are leaving from the Hill each spring—we will learn and achieve and celebrate a number of milestones this side of heaven, but our gaze remains fixed on the eternal hope we have in Jesus.

different from me. ETBU has allowed me to spread Christ’s love every chance I get.”

Each semester, ETBU President Blackburn presents an award to a graduate who represents a Christian leader, scholar, and servant within the campus and the local community. Parker Hudson Boone, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in

ETBU celebrated 186 graduates during its commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10. University President J. Blair Blackburn presided over the ceremony, during which 165 students received undergraduate degrees and 21 received graduate degrees. As always, the worship ceremony featured Scripture readings, praise and worship through song, prayers and blessings over the graduates and included reflections from those soon to walk across the stage.

“During my time at ETBU, I’ve worked on campus and have gotten close to professors and students,” ETBU Rehabilitative Science graduate Holli Richards said. “It means so much to be surrounded by people who love Jesus and love me. As a student worker, I’ve learned professional skills like interacting with others and being supportive of others. As a tutor working with students, I’ve experienced different learning styles and practiced patience and love for people

“It means so much to be surrounded by people that love Jesus and love me.”

-Holli Richards (’24)

Humanities, received the President’s Award for the Spring 2024 graduating class. Parker maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout his time at ETBU. Boone has consistently demonstrated ETBU’s core commitments during his time on the Hill. His faithful service and leadership have distinguished him in the classroom, throughout campus, and in the community. During his time at ETBU, Parker served his community by leading in Residence Life, Phi Alpha Theta, Alpha Chi, the Howard C. Bennett Speech Program, the CASL Executive Committee, and as a student worker in the Alumni and Advancement Office. Parker completed an honors project this spring, and a condensed version of his work has won awards from

Phi Alpha Theta, a National History honors society, and Alpha Chi, an interdisciplinary honors society for the top ten percent of juniors and seniors in their universities.

One ETBU faculty member shared, “Parker has been a faithful servant, dedicated student, and humble leader during his time at ETBU. He approaches all situations with thought and grace, leaning on Christ to make decisions that best represent the Kingdom.”

Ms. Martha Dudley, Senior Assistant Professor of Nursing and the Robert Craig Chair of Nursing, was recognized with the 2024 Professor with Distinction Award for her excellence in service, scholarship, teaching, and integration of faith and learning. Professor Dudley earned her

Bachelor of Science in Nursing from ETBU in 2002 and joined the ETBU faculty in 2008. When discussing Ms. Dudley’s impact on her as a mentor, one student said, “I have learned much from her and am blessed to have her as a mentor in my life. She continually inspires me to work hard beyond my boundaries and pursue my calling in nursing.”

With tassels turned, graduates recessed and united with faculty for a final moment near the Light on the Hill on the lawn of Marshall Hall, the unfailing words of Fanny Crosby’s famous hymn still fresh on their minds—“To God be the glory, great things He hath done.”

Samuel Ross Moseley Distinguished Legal Professional and former Millennial Housing Commissioner, and ETBU Board of Trustees member

Steve and Penny Carlile Former ETBU Board of Trustees members, philanthropists, and community leaders

Q&A W IT H THE FRANK S. G RO NER

SCHOO L OF PROFESSIONA L STUD IES

Body, Mind, & Spirit

The Frank S. Groner School of Professional Studies partners with students to discover their passion and provide the resources necessary for professional fulfillment. Research continues to demonstrate the physiological benefits of exercise on the overall well-being of its participants. Our bodies, minds, and spirits are enabled to learn, work, and worship through attaining knowledge and skills related to physical health, fitness, and wellness.

Dr. Joseph Brown, Dean of the Frank S. Groner School of Professional Studies, David Collins, Associate Professor of Kinesiology, Ashley Grogan, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology, and Dr. Michael Rich, Assistant Professor Kinesiology, explain how faith plays a role in their classrooms.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN KINESIOLOGY?

I’ve always been interested in human movement. Whether it’s a sport or a dance movement, how the human body moves has always fascinated me. The way people can throw things, hit things, jump, and run captivates me.

HOW DOES THE SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES PARTNER WITH OTHER SCHOOLS ON CAMPUS TO HELP STUDENTS BE SUCCESSFUL?

The foundation of kinesiology is deeply rooted in the sciences, with core elements drawn from disciplines like anatomy, physiology, and chemistry. These are complemented by studies in the humanities, such as psychology and sociology, which play a significant role. The foundational courses in these areas are crucial for students as they prepare to enter more specialized major courses.

In kinesiology, the focus has shifted to degrees that lead to licensure in areas such as athletic training, physical therapy, or certifications in strength and conditioning. These paths require a solid grounding in both the sciences and

psychology. The collaboration between general education courses and majorspecific courses is vital, especially when it comes to adapting and aligning course requirements. This careful alignment and collaboration have led to impressive outcomes, such as a 100% pass rate on certification exams for athletic trainers and physical education teachers. The success of students in kinesiology and related fields heavily depends on the strong foundation laid by their general education, particularly in the sciences.

HOW DO YOU INTEGRATE FAITH AND LEARNING IN THE CLASSROOM?

In exercise physiology, we focus on the physiology of movement and exercise, particularly on how skeletal muscles and joints function. While we acknowledge the importance of internal organs such as the heart and lungs, our primary emphasis is on the biomechanics of the human body. I remind students that the human body was intricately designed by God with a master plan, capable of incredible functions and repair, whether in cases of stroke recovery, athletic injuries, or everyday mishaps.

WITH DR. JOSEPH BROWN

DR. JOSEPH BROWN HAS TAUGHT AT ETBU SINCE 2005. HE SERVES AS THE DEAN OF THE FRANK S. GRONER SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES AND PROFESSOR OF KINESIOLOGY.

DR. BROWN EARNED HIS BACHELOR'S IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE, MASTER'S IN HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION AT LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY, AND A DOCTORATE IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY.

WHAT IS SOMETHING THE LORD HAS SHOWN YOU DURING YOUR CAREER IN EDUCATION?

God opens so many doors through advising to have Gospel conversations with students, and I’ve been given so many opportunities to remind students to turn to the Lord for guidance as they prepare for their future. Students today may have changed in some ways, but their need for direction remains constant. They seek guidance and reassurance that they are on the right path, and that’s where advising plays a crucial role. It’s essential to encourage students to push beyond mediocrity, whether they come in with a strong drive or need a nudge to take responsibility for their own success. The goal is to equip students with the skills and confidence to succeed. This approach has been consistent throughout my career, from smaller institutions to large universities—students may worry about “adulting” and finding their way, but the role of an advisor or mentor in guiding and building their confidence has never changed.

WITH DAVID L. COLLINS

DAVID COLLINS HAS SERVED AS A FACULTY MEMBER IN ETBU’S DEPARTMENT OF KINESIOLOGY SINCE 2004. HE HOLDS A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA AND A MASTER OF EDUCATION FROM DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY. COLLINS IS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL ATHLETIC TRAINERS ASSOCIATION AND THE SOUTHWEST ATHLETIC TRAINERS ASSOCIATION.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ATHLETIC TRAINER?

I was an athlete in high school and always wanted to do something in allied health. As I delved deeper into sports medicine, I discovered the field of athletic training. I came across a degree option in sports injury management. After meeting with the program director and gaining insights into the program, I realized that this field aligned perfectly with my interests. Athletic training offered a handson, exciting approach to rehab and allied health, allowing me to stay connected to athletics.

WHAT PROMPTED YOUR TRANSITION INTO THE TEACHING PROFESSION?

The transition into teaching was a natural progression for me, starting in 2004, when I began working in both athletics and academics. I enjoyed this dual role as it allowed me to stay connected to both fields. In 2014, the opportunity arose for me to move into a full-time teaching role. I found that I enjoyed teaching immensely. I still get to practice athletic training through hands-on courses and classroom instruction. While I’m not working with a specific team in the

training room, I’m still deeply involved in athletic training, just in a different capacity.

WHY DO YOU THINK THAT KINESIOLOGY IS AN IMPORTANT DEGREE FOR STUDENTS TO CONSIDER?

When we look beyond sports medicine to kinesiology, the past four years, especially during COVID, highlighted the importance of understanding comorbidities like type 2 diabetes, chronic heart disease, and chronic respiratory disease. We know that many of these conditions are preventable or reversible through physical activity and proper nutrition. Educating people about avoiding sedentary lifestyles can help manage these chronic diseases, improving quality of life as we age. From a public health standpoint, we aim to extend quality years by promoting healthy habits. Kinesiology research has advanced our knowledge of the human body and its capabilities.

WHY SHOULD STUDENTS CHOOSE THE FRANK S. GRONER SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES FOR THEIR DEGREE IN KINESIOLOGY OR SPORT MANAGEMENT?

What sets ETBU apart is our focus on

building relationships. While teaching and impacting the profession are crucial, we believe that the relationships we build with our students are what truly make a difference. Our graduates are sought after not just for their abilities but for the kind of people they are, thanks to the relational approach we foster. Our ultimate goal is to show the love of Christ, and building strong relationships is essential to achieving that.

HOW SPECIAL IS IT TO HAVE TWO OF YOUR FORMER STUDENTS, DR. MICHAEL RICH AND ASHLEY GROGAN, NOW WORKING WITH YOU IN THE SCHOOL OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES?

Having been here for 20 years, it’s incredibly special to have two of my former students now working with me. Seeing our alumni, like Michael and Ashley, come back to invest in ETBU and our athletic training program is one of my proudest accomplishments. It’s exciting to see Michael finish his doctorate and run our graduate programs and Ashley obtain her teaching certificate. It is awesome to know that the future of athletic training education at ETBU is in good hands.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN KINESIOLOGY, AND HOW DOES YOUR BACKGROUND INFLUENCE YOUR TEACHING?

I chose a career in athletic training because of my experiences as a high school athlete. I was frequently injured and spent a lot of time in the training room, which sparked my curiosity about how different treatments worked. This interest led me to talk to David Collins, who introduced me to athletic training. God navigated for me to play soccer at ETBU, and I decided to pursue athletic training. After graduation, I began working as an athletic trainer at a high school. I gained valuable real-world experience and personal growth. Eventually, I returned to ETBU as an athletic trainer. I was approached about teaching at ETBU, and it gave me a balance between my professional and personal life. Teaching has allowed me to use my skills and knowledge in a new and fulfilling way.

WHY DO YOU THINK IT IS IMPORTANT TO PROMOTE KINESIOLOGY?

Transitioning to focus on K-12 physical education has really opened my eyes to the importance of building a foundation for

a healthy life. Physical education isn’t just about playing sports; it’s about encouraging recreational activity and an active lifestyle. It’s essential to provide students with foundational knowledge and skills, showing them the importance of staying active throughout their entire lives, not just during their school years.

HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE HANDSON EXPERIENCE OR PRACTICAL APPLICATION IN YOUR TEACHING?

In our physical education classes, students design and lead lessons, practicing teaching and reflecting on improvements, mirroring their future careers. Coaching classes include real-life activities like writing personal philosophy letters for high school coaching positions. This combination of practical experience and real-life application ensures our students are well-prepared for their professional lives.

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS YOU INTEGRATE FAITH INTO LEARNING IN THE CLASSROOM?

I tie concepts to practical applications. In coaching classes, “coaching for character” helps disciple athletes, showing them the

WITH ASHLEY GROGAN (’14, ’18)

ASHLEY GROGAN (’14, ’18) TRANSITIONED TO A MEMBER OF THE ETBU FACULTY AS AN ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF KINESIOLOGY IN 2023. PREVIOUSLY, SHE SERVED AS AN ASSISTANT ATHLETIC TRAINER AT ETBU FROM 2017-23. GROGAN IS A CERTIFIED AND LICENSED ATHLETIC TRAINER AND HOLDS A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE AND MASTER OF SCIENCE IN KINESIOLOGY FROM ETBU.

love of Jesus even in public schools. In physical education courses, I emphasize being a positive influence, helping students see God in nature and understand their career purpose. When discussing motor development, I highlight that God designed us with intention, making it applicable by relating it to creation and God’s purpose for each of us.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A STUDENT WHO WOULD LIKE TO PURSUE A CAREER IN KINESIOLOGY?

I’ve come to embrace the idea that God has a calling and purpose for us. No matter what career you choose, there will be challenging days and days you love. Keeping our eyes on God’s purpose and seeing Him work in us and through us makes it rewarding. Whatever your passion is, God will use it.

When I transitioned to teaching, I was nervous about the change and whether I would succeed in a completely different field. But I felt God was leading me to this new path, and I trusted He would use me. By focusing on God’s plan rather than the difficulties, I find strength and purpose in my work.

WITH DR. MICHAEL RICH (’12)

DR. MICHAEL RICH (’12) JOINED ETBU’S FACULTY IN 2015 AND SERVES AS AN ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF KINESIOLOGY AND ETBU’S DIRECTOR OF MASTER OF SCIENCE PROGRAMS. HE HOLDS A BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ATHLETIC TRAINING FROM ETBU, A MASTER OF SCIENCE IN KINESIOLOGY FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT TYLER, AND A DOCTOR OF HEALTH SCIENCES FROM A.T. STILL UNIVERSITY.

HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON A CAREER IN KINESIOLOGY?

I was drawn to a profession that combines a love for sports with a deep desire to help people. I wanted to stick around sports, so what better profession than athletic training? You get to be around sports, help people when they get injured, and get them back on the playing field, not just from a physical standpoint but emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. After working at Trinity Valley Community College for a year, I worked at the high school level for two years. David Collins called me and asked me to teach at ETBU. It’s hard to believe I have been teaching at my alma mater for nine years.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST PART ABOUT TRANSITIONING FROM A CAREER IN ATHLETIC TRAINING TO A CAREER IN TEACHING?

It has been really fun to see students graduate and go on to become athletic trainers at high schools or local hospital systems. They no longer rely on us; instead, they take ownership and lead the way in the field. My role as a professor is to advance the profession through these students. It is rewarding to see them come

through our program, graduate, and work as athletic trainers, physical therapists, or in other roles. Hearing from them and seeing their success after graduation is incredibly encouraging and rewarding.

HOW DO YOU INTEGRATE FAITH INTO LEARNING?

Athletic training embodies several examples of Jesus meeting people where they are, especially in the miracles He performed in healing people. I’m biased, but I believe there’s no greater profession where we get to be His hands and feet, truly encouraging not just our athletic trainers but all our students pursuing careers in kinesiology—whether they aim to be personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, athletic administrators, physical therapists, or even chiropractors. In sport management, we have the opportunity to be advocates for people, much like Jesus was. Bringing that into the classroom, I strive to help my students stay engaged and recognize that there’s a Creator behind it all. We have an opportunity every day to meet people where they are physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

HOW DO STUDENTS GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE TO PREPARE THEM FOR THEIR CAREERS?

In our hands-on labs, I teach students how to evaluate and understand anatomy. It’s crucial for them to palpate and find structures on each other, performing special tests in practice rather than just learning about them theoretically. This approach is vital not only for athletic training but also for coaches, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. Knowing how to teach, demonstrate, and instruct patients on proper techniques requires more than answering multiplechoice questions; it demands field-based application and hands-on experience.

WHAT ROLE DOES TECHNOLOGY PLAY IN KINESIOLOGY AND SPORT MANAGEMENT?

Technology can play a significant role in advancing patient treatment in health fields. Advances in technology benefit athletic trainers, physical therapists, personal trainers, and sport management administrators by enabling betterinformed decisions regarding patients and events.

ETBU’s Department of Kinesiology offers graduate degrees designed to equip students for careers in clinical exercise science, fitness and health promotion, physical education, sport administration, sport marketing, facility management, and event management. Complete your graduate degree at ETBU and elevate your professional expertise.

ASC SCHOLAR-ATHLETE MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS RYAN ELZY & AVERY REID TIGERAthletics

ETBU Men’s Basketball player Ryan Elzy and Tiger Volleyball player Avery Reid were honored with the American Southwest Conference (ASC) ScholarAthlete Medal of Honor, the highest accolade an ASC student-athlete can receive. This prestigious award, presented by the Faculty Athletics Representatives, recognizes one male and one female graduating student from each member institution who has demonstrated exceptional academic, athletic, and leadership achievements.

Remarkable academic and athletic achievements have marked Ryan Elzy’s time at ETBU. A three-time ASC All-Academic team member, Elzy has made the President’s List four times and was honored as an NABC All-District Academic Team member in 2022. He is also a proud Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society member and a Chi Alpha Sigma inductee. Elzy has maintained the highest grade point average on the men’s basketball team for three consecutive years while serving as a starter for the past two seasons.

Elzy’s impact extends beyond the basketball court. He has dedicated

significant time to community service, including volunteering at the George Washington Carver Community Center.

As a resident assistant, he has positively influenced the lives of many students on campus. Elzy has been instrumental in ETBU’s success on the court, contributing to 53 victories over the past three seasons, including capturing the 2023 ASC Championship Tournament title. Over his three-year career, Elzy amassed 663 points, 136 assists, and 135 steals, playing in 82 games and starting 57.

Avery Reid embodies the spirit of an ETBU student-athlete through her unwavering dedication to academics, athletics, and community service.

As a nursing major, Reid has been a three-time ASC All-Academic team member

and a College Sports Communicator AllDistrict award winner. She has made the President’s List three times, is a two-time member of Chi Alpha Sigma, and belongs to Alpha Lambda Delta and Sigma Theta Tau honor societies.

Reid has actively participated in community service, volunteering at Mission Marshall, assisting with neighborhood trash cleanup, supporting Marshall’s Night to Shine, and joining a Tiger Athletic Mission Experience trip to Chile with the ETBU Volleyball team. On the court, Reid’s accolades are equally impressive. She is a three-time All-ASC first-team selection, making her the program’s 17th player to earn three or more All-ASC awards and the seventh outside hitter to do so. Reid ranks ninth all-time at ETBU in kills (953) and service aces (93). Her stellar performance earned her the 2021 ASC Volleyball Freshman of the Year title, two ASC Player of the Week honors, and a spot on the 2023 ASC AllTournament team.

Reid’s leadership helped propel ETBU to a historic 2023 season. The team won the ASC Tournament Championship for the first time in 20 years and defeated #13 North Park in the first round of the NCAA Division III National Tournament. The team achieved a program-best 13-match win streak and recorded the second-most wins in program history with 26.

TIGER BEACH VOLLEYBALL SHINES AT NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

The East Texas Baptist University Beach Volleyball team ranked among the top in the American Volleyball Coaches Association Small Colleges for Division III. The Tigers made a historic run at the national championship tournament in Florida. As the No. 7 seed, ETBU went 2-1, advancing to the championship bracket. The Tigers finished fourth overall, challenging two of the top three teams in the nation.

Under the guidance of Head Coach Allison Kuster, ETBU’s Beach Volleyball program has made impressive strides in just its second season including 13 victories. They were the only NCAA Division III AVCA program to receive the Team Academic Honor Roll award and carried a 3.80 team GPA in the spring.

TIGER MEN’S TENNIS REACHES NEW HEIGHTS

ETBU Men’s Tennis defeated the University of Texas at Dallas, 5-4, to win its first-ever American Southwest Conference (ASC) East Division Championship. The Tigers’ 15 wins were a program best, and the team was a perfect 4-0 in the ASC East Division.

Drew Lambert, who coached East Texas Baptist University to its best men’s tennis season in program history, was named ASC Coach of the Year for the East Division and the NCAA Division III West Region Coach of the Year. This is also the first time the program has

ETBU WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY EARNS ACADEMIC HONORS

After an impressive fall season, the ETBU Women’s Cross Country team has been recognized for its academic excellence by being named to the U.S. Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association All-Academic Team list.

The ETBU team achieved a collective grade point average of 3.2, distinguishing them as one of over 100 programs nationwide to earn this honor. To qualify for this distinction, teams must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.1 on a 4.0 scale, including the most recent grading period.

received an Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) post-season award. The men’s tennis program finished the

year ranked 10th in the ITA West Regional Rankings while also earning their second straight ITA Team Academic Award.

SPRING 2024

Sayers Collins

Baseball | Pitcher

’24 D3baseball.com (1 st team)

’24 ABCA (1 st team)

Hannah Benavides

Softball | Pitcher

’24 NFCA (3rd team)

’24 CSC Academic (2nd team)

Mary Frances Ellis

Softball

’24 CSC Academic (1st team)

Tristen Maddox

Softball | Shortstop

’24 NFCA (1st team)

Haylie Stum

Softball | DP

’24 NFCA (3rd team)

Demonstrating exceptional leadership and commitment to community service, East Texas Baptist University’s Rangel (RJ) Miller (’22) was honored as the American Southwest Conference (ASC) Men’s Community Service Athlete of the Year. Miller is the fourth male athlete from ETBU to receive this prestigious award, further solidifying ETBU’s reputation for excellence in community engagement within the ASC.

Courtney White

Softball | At-Large

’24 NFCA (3rd team)

ASC COMMUNITY SERVICE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR RANGEL MILLER (’22)

Miller, a graduate student and member of the men’s track and field team, has distinguished himself as a model studentathlete at ETBU. His dedication to service and leadership is evident in his numerous roles and accomplishments.

On campus, RJ serves as a resident assistant and President of the ETBU Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Chapter. He is also an active member of New Beginnings Baptist Church and participates in various community service events, including Night to Shine, Fields of Faith, Operation Christmas Child, and New Student Orientation at ETBU.

Miller’s unwavering commitment to serving and uplifting others, both on and off the field, has significantly impacted the ETBU family and the broader Marshall

community. His involvement extends beyond the University, as he has served at FCA Camps in Colorado, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas and supported local FCA chapters across East Texas and Northwest Louisiana.

RJ is a six-time ASC Champion and was the first track and field All-American at ETBU, placing eighth in the 400-meter dash at the 2022 NCAA Division III National Track and Field Championships. In 2024, he earned All-American secondteam honors in the 4x400.

“Rangel Miller exemplifies the true spirit of a Christian servant-leader,” ETBU Senior Vice President for Campus Life Ryan Erwin said. “His dedication to excellence in athletics, academics, and community service inspires us all. We are incredibly proud of his accomplishments and his positive influence on our community.”

ASC WOMEN’S BASKETBALL CO-FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR KADIA WARD

Tiger Women’s Basketball player Kadia Ward was named the American Southwest Conference (ASC) co-Freshman of the Year and also earned a spot on the ASC All-Freshman team. Ward is the 10th ETBU player to receive an ASC Freshman of the Year award for the program. Throughout the season, she averaged 7.3 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, along with 58 assists and 47 steals. She played in all 27 games, starting 11, and achieved two doubledoubles, including a noteworthy performance against UT Dallas on January 11 with 21 points.

JACK SLADEK

In a standout season that cements his name in the East Texas Baptist University Men’s Golf record book, senior Jack Sladek was

honored as the co-American Southwest Conference (ASC) Golfer of the Year.

Sladek was instrumental in ETBU’s triumph at the fall ASC Preview Tournament in Granbury, Texas, where he clinched victory with an impressive 143 (71-72). Sladek’s performances have consistently contributed to ETBU’s overall success, which included a runner-up finish at last year’s ASC Tournament and a respectable fifth place this year. The team also boasted third-place finishes at the fall Tempest Intercollegiate and the Lidlifter Match Play Challenge.

Sladek’s recognition as ASC Golfer of the Year is historic as he is the first in ETBU program history to receive this accolade, as voted by ASC golf coaches. This honor adds to his impressive resume, marking his fourth All-ASC award. Sladek is a two-time All-ASC first-team selection in 2023 and 2024 and received an honorable mention in 2022. His consistent excellence also earned him the ASC Golfer of the Week title twice this year. Over the season, Sladek achieved six top10 finishes, including a match play victory against Hendrix and being the medalist at the ASC Fall Preview in Granbury on October 15.

Malik Cooper

Men’s Track & Field

4x100m Relay, 4x400m Relay

’24 USTFCCA (2nd team)

Andrae Gibson

Men’s Track & Field

4x100m Relay, 4x400m Relay

’24 USTFCCA (2nd team)

Hayden Green

Men’s Track & Field

4x100m Relay

’24 USTFCCA (2nd team)

Rangel Miller

Men’s Track & Field

4x400m Relay

’24 USTFCCA (2nd team)

Brandon Powell

Men’s Track & Field

4x100m Relay, 4x400m Relay

’24 USTFCCA (2nd team)

Carlos TorresIzquierdo

Men’s Track & Field

4x400m Relay

’24 USTFCCA (2nd team)

Neelie Schiel

Women’s Track & Field | Javelin

’24 USTFCCA (2nd team)

ABCA NATIONAL PITCHER OF THE YEAR

PERFECT GAME NATIONAL PITCHER OF THE YEAR

ABCA ALL-AMERICAN 1ST TEAM

D3BASEBALL.COM ALL-AMERICAN 1ST TEAM

ETBU graduate student Sayers Collins (’23) cemented his legacy as one of the premier pitchers in NCAA Division III, earning the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) National Pitcher of the Year award. This marks Collins’ second national accolade, following his recognition as the top pitcher by Perfect Game in May.

“This is an unbelievable accomplishment. To even be considered as one of the top players in any position is an incredible honor,” remarked ETBU Head Baseball Coach Jared Hood. “I am really proud of Sayers and all of the hard work he has put in en route to this award.”

Collins is the first pitcher from the American Southwest Conference (ASC) to receive the ABCA’s player-specific pitcher award since its inception in 2018.

ABCA REGION 10 CO-PITCHER OF THE YEAR

D3BASEBALL.COM ALL-REGION 1ST TEAM

ABCA ALL-REGION FIRST TEAM

D3BASEBALL.COM TEAM OF THE WEEK (FEB. & MARCH ’24)

2024 SEASON ACCOLADES

135 and 412, respectively, and for singleseason and career wins, with 12 and 41, respectively. Additionally, Collins has been named Pitcher of the Week 15 times over four seasons, setting another ASC record.

Adding to his accolades, Collins was

NCBWA PITCHER OF THE MONTH (MARCH ’24)

NCBWA PITCHER OF THE MONTH HONORABLE MENTION (FEB. ’24)

CBS-19 TV ATHLETE OF THE WEEK (FEB. ’24)

D3BASEBALL.COM PRESEASON ALL-AMERICAN

Mary Hardin-Baylor’s Robert Moore, who did so in 2000-01 and 2001-02.

“Representing ETBU the last few years has meant more to me than any individual accolade,” Sayers said. “Being part of a program that transformed itself the way we did was an incredible experience. Although my time at ETBU is over, I know that this is only the beginning for the program.”

“Representing ETBU the last few years has meant more to me than any individual accolade. Being a part of a program that transformed itself the way we did was an incredible experience.”

As a standout in the ASC, Collins ranks third all-time in NCAA Division III strikeouts with 421. He holds ASC records for both single-season and career strikeouts, with

named the Male Athlete of the Year by the ASC for the second consecutive year. He becomes only the second studentathlete in ASC history to achieve back-toback Athlete of the Year honors, following

In 2024, Collins earned his third consecutive AllAmerican title, making the first team for both the ABCA and D3baseball.com. Receiving the ABCA Region 10 Pitcher of the Year title for the third year in a row, Collins posted a 12-1 record with a 1.23 ERA and 92 strikeouts over 88 innings. Highlights of his season include a combined no-hitter against No. 6 Lynchburg, four shutouts, and a season-high 11 strikeouts versus Hardin-Simmons on April 13, with opposing teams hitting just .160 against him all season.

ETBU Baseball concluded the season with an impressive 39-10 overall record and a dominant 23-1 record in the American Southwest Conference (ASC), clinching the 2024 ASC Regular Season Championship and winning the Marshall, Texas NCAA Division III Regional.

The Tigers secured seven victories over nationally ranked teams and were the No. 1 ranked team in Region 10 across

The ETBU Baseball coaching staff, led by Head Coach Jared Hood, earned the American Southwest Conference (ASC) Coaching Staff of the Year award for the fourth consecutive year and fifth time overall. Coach Hood, in his tenth year at the helm, guided the Tigers through one of their most impressive seasons to date, securing a place among the top ten teams nationally in two major polls for the majority of the campaign.

FETBU BASEBALL MAKES BACK-TO-BACK NCAA SUPER REGIONAL APPEARANCES

all three regional rankings. A highlight of the season was ETBU’s walk-off victory in the NCAA Division III Marshall, Texas Regional Tournament against No. 25 Claremont-Mudd-Scripps. Tied at five in the bottom of the ninth inning, Nick Massarini’s single up the middle allowed Charles Gordon to score from second base, securing a thrilling 6-5 win. ETBU’s 2024 season came to an end in the Marshall, Texas Super Regional, falling to No. 12 Pomona-Pitzer College. The Tigers’

39 wins this season are the second most in program history.

ETBU was a top 10 baseball program in 2024, finishing the year ranked in three different polls. The Tigers secured the No. 8 spot in the final American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) and Perfect Game polls and were ranked No. 9 in the D3baseball.com Top 25. This marks the second consecutive year ETBU has finished in the top 10, following their fifth and sixth-place finishes last year.

TIGER BASEBALL EARNS ASC COACHING STAFF OF THE YEAR

The success of the Tigers is a collective effort, with a dedicated coaching staff working tirelessly behind the scenes. Alongside Coach Hood are Tanner Matthews (Associate Head Coach), Connor Anderson (Assistant Coach), Andrew Loudermilk (Director of Operations), and Cody Johnson (Graduate Assistant Coach).

The continued recognition of the Tiger coaching staff underscores their commitment to developing top-tier talent and achieving sustained success. Their leadership and vision have set a high standard, making East Texas Baptist University a powerhouse program in NCAA Division III baseball.

lorida welcomed the ETBU Cheer and Pom teams as the Tigers showcased their talent at the National Cheer Association (NCA) Nationals. ETBU’s Spirit teams secured a second-place finish for the second consecutive year in the highly competitive “Game Day” open event.

Under the guidance of Head Pom Coach Ellen LeClair and Head Cheer

Coach Hannah Hicks, the ETBU Spirit teams delivered a stellar performance and earned 75.8708 points, edging out Our Lady of the Lake University by a narrow margin (73.8667).

The “Game Day” division at the NCA Nationals showcases teams’ ability to energize and engage a crowd. ETBU’s routine blended precision, creativity, and

spirit, leaving a lasting impression on the judges and audience.

“Bringing home another trophy for the ETBU Spirit program, supported by the ETBU Tiger Drum Corps, is a proud moment for all of us,” Coach LeClair said. “Our student-athletes have worked incredibly hard, and their commitment and passion for what they do is evident in their performance. This achievement is a testament to their dedication and the support of the entire ETBU community.”

ETBU SPIRIT PLACES

SECOND AT NATIONALS

ASC SOFTBALL FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR

HAYLIE STUM

Haylie Stum was awarded the American Southwest Conference (ASC) Softball Freshman of the Year and was also named to the All-ASC First Team. She is the fifth player from ETBU to receive the ASC Freshman of the Year award and the third player from the program in the last five years. Stum was

Hrecognized as the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) National Hitter of the Week in March and was selected for the NFCA Lead Off AllClassic Team. She is included in the 2024 NFCA Players to Watch list and has been named ASC Hitter of the Week twice. Stum led the ASC and ETBU in batting average at .458 and in hits with 70. In the ASC, she ranked second in RBI with 50, and second in total bases with 97, as well as home runs with six.

annah Benavides is ETBU’s fifth player to earn an American Southwest Conference (ASC) Softball Pitcher of the Year award, joining Ashley Croft (2024), Beatriz Lara (2019), Shelby Parker (2015), and Ayrika Henderson (2009). Benavides was named ASC Pitcher of the Week four times and led the ASC in wins at 15-0. She pitched 12 complete games with five shutouts and had a 1.11 ERA, totaling 82 innings with 43 strikeouts. Benavides pitched a one-hit shutout over Birmingham Southern, 3-0, in seven innings on March 28 and gave up just one hit in four innings of a five-inning game against Ozarks. In a game against Christopher Newport on March 2, Benavides recorded a career-high six strikeouts. She was also awarded ASC Newcomer of the Year.

ASC SOFTBALL PITCHER, NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR HANNAH BENAVIDES

East Texas Baptist University

Softball was named the ATEC/National Fastpitch Coaching Association (NFCA) National Coaching Staff of the Year. This is the second time that Head Coach Janaé Shirley’s (’05, ’16) staff has earned the award, also receiving it in 2010. Shirley, Associate Head Coach Bill Galloway, assistant coaches Jeanette Galvan and Guy Shirley, and graduate assistant Hannah Garcia earned the award for the 2024 season.

ETBU won a program-best 48 games, winning the program’s second national championship and producing a record 23 straight wins during the season. ETBU tallied a program-best 10 NCAA Tournament wins in 2024. Shirley has won 41 NCAA Tournament games in 15 appearances, two National Championships, and three Super Regional Championships.

The coaching staff’s leadership extends beyond the field. Through Team IMPACT, PenPals, and various other service opportunities, the team serves as a model program in the community.

Strength in Unity

HOW ETBU SOFTBALL AND SERENITY SMITH INSPIRE EACH OTHER THROUGH TEAM

IMPACT PARTNERSHIP

Team IMPACT matches children facing serious illness and disability with college sports teams, creating a long-term, lifechanging experience for everyone involved. Serenity Smith, a 10-year-old who was matched with East Texas Baptist University through Team IMPACT last fall, began her battle with cancer at the age of seven when she was diagnosed with stage three rhabdomyosarcoma. She went through 68 rounds of chemo and 30 rounds of radiation at St. Jude Children’s Research

Hospital and continues with therapy. Serenity enjoys riding her bike, playing on the trampoline, gymnastics, spending time with her siblings, and meeting new friends. Throughout her journey, she has shown incredible strength. Through the Team IMPACT partnership, ETBU supports Serenity with ongoing prayers, laughter, and joy to help lift her spirits. During the spring, Serenity joined the team at the annual Strike Out Cancer Game, throwing out the first pitch. In June, ETBU had the opportunity to gift Serenity an NCAA Division III National Championship trophy as a member of the ETBU Softball team.

Tigers Take the Title

VALOR GALS MAKE HISTORY, WIN THE NCAA DIVISION III NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AT HOME

There is no place like home. The East Texas Baptist University Softball program proved that in June when they completed the historic 2024 season by hoisting the NCAA Division III National Championship Trophy at Jason Bell Park at Taylor Field in front of family, friends, alumni, and community supporters.

“It’s the sweetest thing to not only host but also win a national championship on your home field,” freshman Haylie Stum said. “We are grateful for such an amazing opportunity and moment for our team and University.”

After hosting the 2023 NCAA Championship and not making the final eight teams, the Tigers were determined to compete for the championship in 2024.

“I keep thinking back to our first team meeting and the experience of watching another team win a national championship on our field in 2023,” Head Coach Janaé Shirley (’05, ’16) said. “That was a huge motivating factor for us because we knew we had the talent and ability to be in that spot and win the championship. From the beginning, this was our goal.”

The Tigers moved into the top five in the national ranking in the second poll of the season and never looked back. They compiled an impressive 35-2 regular-season record and reeled off a 12-game win streak in April to claim the American Southwest Conference regular-season championship. The Tigers carried the momentum into the postseason with a flawless record. ETBU hosted the ASC Tournament, Marshall Regional, and Super Regional without a blemish on their record, moving into the National Championship as the No. 2 seed.

The Valor Gals were a perfect 24-0 on their home turf leading into the NCAA Division III National Championship Tournament. After waiting a day to play because of weather conditions, the ETBU Softball team opened the championship tournament with a dominating win over Rowan, 7-0. Freshman Avery Holland moved to 14-0 on the year with her eighth shutout.

“I have known since the eighth grade that this is the place I wanted to go to college and play softball,” Holland said. “This team is full of joy, and they are always having fun. Being able to contribute to the team as a freshman has been so exciting.”

The Tigers moved on to face Belhaven in the winner’s bracket on Friday evening. The atmosphere was electric with

NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

over 1,000 people in attendance. The matchup renewed a rivalry as Belhaven is a former ASC foe for the Tigers.

“We knew Belhaven was going to be a challenge,” Head Coach Janaé Shirley said. “They are a good veteran team we have continually met up with the past couple of years, and Kennedy Carruth always does a nice job in the circle. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but we embraced the challenge. Maddie Melton had a phenomenal game and a stellar performance.”

struck first with one run in the top of the first, but the Valor Gals had an answer in the bottom of the inning, using five hits to score three runs. The Tigers never relinquished the lead, and the 5-2 victory punched ETBU’s ticket to the Championship Series, where they faced Belhaven in a best-of-three matchup.

Melton came in the game as a relief pitcher in the first inning and tossed 6.1 innings, allowing only one hit and one unearned run to a team that averages five runs per game. Belhaven struck first with a solo home run in the first inning, but the Tigers took the lead in the top of the third with two runs. The Blazer evened the score in the bottom of the inning, but ETBU regained the advantage in the fourth with an RBI single by Ava Rodriguez. Paired with ETBU’s exceptional defense, that was all Melton needed to secure the win and move on in the winner’s bracket.

One game away from the championship series, the Tigers faced Rowan once again on Sunday. The Owls

The Tigers took a 23-game win streak into the Championship Series, but it was going to be a grueling showdown against Belhaven, who had won seven of the last ten meetings over ETBU prior to the championship. The Blazers took game one of the series with a narrow 4-3 victory. With their backs against the wall, the Tigers needed to respond in a big way on the final day of the championship.

Melton retired the Blazers in order through the first three innings in game two of the championship series. The Tiger offense got going in the bottom of the third, posting a pair of runs to take the lead and gain momentum. The Valor Gals never looked back, adding one run in the fourth and five runs in the fifth. Melton helped her cause in the sixth with a solo home run. Belhaven got on the board with one run in the fifth and sixth innings, but it wasn’t enough, and the Tigers forced the decisive game three that afternoon.

“It’s the sweetest thing to not only host but also win a national championship on your home field. We are grateful for such an amazing opportunity and moment for our team and University.”

-Haylie Stum

With an electrifying standing-roomonly crowd filling Jason Bell Park for the championship game, the Tigers made an emphatic statement in the first inning by taking a four-run lead. Freshman Haylie Stum ignited the excitement with a threerun home run to left field, followed by senior Tauryn Cummings’ solo shot over the left field fence, bringing the crowd to their feet.

The Blazers wouldn’t go down quietly, scoring three runs in the top of the

second. Emma Bell responded with a clutch two-out double to right-centerfield in the bottom half, driving in Tristen Maddox and Mary Frances Ellis. However, Belhaven answered right back with a two-run home run in the top of the third, narrowing the gap to 6-5.

In the bottom of the third, Cummings launched a first-pitch home run over the center field fence, igniting renewed energy in the ETBU dugout. ETBU tacked on a pair of insurance runs in the bottom of the sixth. Courtney White ripped an RBI double to right-center field with two outs, and Emma Bell followed with an RBI triple. With two outs and two runners in the top of the seventh, the Valor Gals sealed the championship victory with a fielder’s choice to Cummings at third base.

“This has been a special group that has had fun and played hard all year,” Shirley said. “Winning a national championship is an amazing achievement, but what

stands out even more is the kind of women they are. Their identity isn’t rooted in this sport; it’s in Christ, and that’s what truly matters. This group of women are exceptional, and I am so proud of them.”

Tristen Maddox was named the Tournament MVP as she hit .333, recording eight RBI, two homers, four stolen bases, and was rock solid on defense at shortstop. Tauryn Cummings had a national championship day, making the All-Tournament team, hitting .500, and going 3-of-6 with two key home runs. Izabella Morales led the team in batting for the tournament with a .444 average with an RBI on championship day. Avery Holland rounded out the All-Tournament team, as she went 3-1 in the tournament with the national championship win, a 1.96 ERA, and eight strikeouts.

ETBU’s magical season ended with a program-best 48 wins and a 28-1 record at home. They became the first team

in modern-day NCAA Division III softball history to win a national championship on their home field.

“Putting God at the center of everything we’ve done has made a huge difference for us this year,” senior Courtney White said. “Playing with the joy we get from Him has transformed our approach. When you play with joy, it’s not about you; it’s about your team. Instead of focusing on ourselves individually, we focused on loving each other and performing together as a team.”

ETBU’s historic season, marked by record-breaking performances, will be remembered not only for the wins and accolades but for the joy that defined it. The Tigers have set a new standard for excellence, both on and off the field, and their legacy will inspire future Valor Gals.

In the end, the 2024 ETBU Softball program proved that there truly is no place like home.

Finding Joy in Every Play

ETBU’S STANDOUT SHORTSTOP TRISTEN MADDOX NAMED NCAA DIVISION III ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

For senior Tristen Maddox, softball is, first and foremost, about fun. It just so happens that she has a lot of fun winning, breaking records, and racking up accolades along the way.

“I think this season was really all about having fun with this team,” Maddox said. “We found joy in everything we did; whether it was practice, travel, or game day, we found a way to have fun.”

The shortstop from Mission, Texas, etched her name in NCAA Division III history during the 2024 season. She joined her teammates in hoisting the NCAA Division III Softball National Championship trophy and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Tournament. She was also honored by the Collegiate Women’s Sports Awards (CWSA) and Honda as the NCAA Division III Athlete of the Year, a prestigious accolade given to the top female athlete in all of NCAA Division III.

“The impact that she has made on our program both as an athlete and a leader has been tremendous,” ETBU Head Softball Coach Janaé Shirley said. “She truly is the definition of a coach’s dream - she works hard, competes, is humble, kind, an amazing leader, and an incredible athlete. We are so proud of her and the woman she is.”

The CWSA honors the nation’s top NCAA women athletes for their superior athletic skills, leadership, academic excellence, and eagerness to participate in community service. Maddox’s achievement marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the fifth

softball player to earn this recognition in the 35-year history of the award. She was presented the accolade during an award show at CBS Studios in New York City in June.

“It is such an honor and a blessing to receive this award,” Maddox said. “I would not have been able to do this without my teammates and coaches pushing me to do better and my friends and family supporting me in everything I do. I am very thankful to be part of such a loving community and to be able to make my friends and family proud. I am so thankful that God put me on the path to meet the people who have helped me grow in my athletic journey and as a person.”

Tristen’s list of accomplishments at ETBU is a mile-long. In 2024, she was named the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Player of the Year after helping the Tigers to the National Championship at ETBU’s Jason Bell Park at Taylor Field. She is a three-time NFCA All-American and two-time American Southwest Conference Softball Player of the Year and Female Athlete of the Year.

Maddox’s performance this year was nothing short of exceptional. She finished the season with a batting average of .437, amassing 69 hits, 16 doubles, 63 RBIs, and a record-breaking 17 home runs, the most in a single season for ETBU. Her outstanding performance earned her the ASC Tournament MVP title and a spot in the NCAA Division III Marshall, Texas, All-Regional Tournament team. The fourtime All-ASC first-team honoree was also

a three-time recipient of the ASC Hitter of the Week award.

As Tristen looks back on her time at East Texas Baptist University, it’s clear that her legacy extends far beyond the field. Her extraordinary achievements in softball are a testament to her hard work, talent, and unwavering dedication. Yet, it’s her growth as a servant leader and her ability to infuse joy and camaraderie into every moment with her team that truly sets her apart.

“I have really come out of my shell over the past four years at ETBU,” Maddox said. “That is a big accomplishment for me. I hope people remember me for being a good teammate, working hard, and having fun. It has been a blessing to play softball at ETBU. I never thought I would be on a team that would be National Champions. This season has been a complete team effort, and I am so proud to be a part of this group.”

For Tristen, her time at ETBU has been about more than the accolades and records—it’s been about the joy of the game, the bonds formed with her teammates, and the personal growth she has experienced along the way.

“I am so proud of Tristen and the influence she has made on the field, but what impresses me the most is how she has grown as a person,” Shirley said. “She has become an incredible leader, bringing joy and energy to our team. It’s so much more than what you see in the stats and highlight reels—it’s who she is as a person that has impacted the team the most.”

TRISTEN MADDOX CAREER AWARDS

CWSA AWARDS HONDA NCAA DIVISION III

ATHLETE OF THE YEAR | 2024

NCAA DIVISION III NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER | 2024

NCAA DIVISION III MARSHALL, TEXAS REGIONAL ALL-TOURNAMENT TEAM | 2024

NFCA PLAYER OF THE YEAR | 2024

NFCA ALL-AMERICAN FIRST TEAM | 2023, 2024

NFCA ALL-AMERICAN SECOND TEAM | 2022

NFCA ALL-REGION FIRST TEAM | 2023, 2024

NFCA ALL-REGION SECOND TEAM | 2022

NFCA WATCH LIST | 2023, 2024

NFCA TOP 50 PLAYERS | 2023

NFCA GOLD GLOVE | 2023

ASC FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR | 2023, 2024

ASC TOURNAMENT MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER | 2024

ASC SOFTBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR | 2023, 2024

ALL-ASC FIRST TEAM | 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024

ASC HITTER OF THE WEEK | 5 TIMES

Turning Trials into Triumph

THE INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEY OF TAURYN CUMMINGS

As a young girl, ETBU senior Tauryn Cummings was set on pursuing competitive cheerleading. However, her pastor announced a free softball clinic for children one Sunday morning at church. Encouraged by her mom to attend, seven-year-old Tauryn stepped up to bat for the first time, and her pastor immediately recognized her talent.

“When I went to the softball clinic, they handed me a bat and told me to hit the ball. I didn’t know anything about softball, but I started hitting the ball to the wall from the very first pitch. My pastor asked me if I played softball, and I said no, but a few months later, I signed up for Little League. The rest is history.”

Tauryn’s softball career began at the age of seven with encouragement from her mom and their pastor.

“Once Little League was over, they told me we would try out for a select team. I had no idea what that meant. But I made the select team, and there were so many great players. It was a really competitive environment. My mom pushed me to be my best and continue improving my game.”

In high school, Cummings committed to play softball at Louisiana Tech, believing her post-college plans were falling into place. However, a coaching change at Louisiana Tech before her senior year resulted in her scholarship offer being withdrawn. Crushed, Tauryn and her mom had to

restart the recruiting process, visiting schools once again, including ETBU. Then, during her senior year, Tauryn suffered a second setback: double ACL tears during the high school basketball season, putting all her college softball plans up in the air.

“Losing my scholarship at Louisiana Tech and then enduring the knee injuries really sent me into depression and gave me a lot of anxiety,” Cummings said. “My faith strengthened through that whole situation. I started to lean on God. He carried me through that, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without Him bringing me through that adversity.”

ETBU Head Softball Coach Janaé Shirley hadn’t forgotten about Tauryn. She continued to reach out, but with Tauryn focused on rehab, finishing her senior year, and navigating the outbreak of COVID-19, Cummings had decided to concentrate on academics and attend college close to home. Tauryn’s mom wasn’t sure that softball was completely out of the question and nudged Tauryn to call Coach Shirley.

“When I finally called Coach Shirley back and told her about my injury, I was shocked when she said she still wanted me to come and be a part of the program at ETBU. I’m so grateful that Coach Shirley gave me the opportunity to come to ETBU even though I was rehabbing my knee injuries. Without her encouragement, I probably would not be a college athlete.”

Sidelined for all of the fall of her freshman year at ETBU, Tauryn wasn’t sure how her first season with the Tigers would go, but just like that very first clinic when she was seven, Coach Shirley knew she would be special.

“I still remember that first practice when Tauryn was released to play with the team in the spring; it was truly something special,” Shirley said. “The coaching staff already knew Tauryn’s potential, but the rest of the team got to see it for the first time during front toss. As soon as Tauryn started hitting, you could see the amazement on everyone’s faces. The way the ball came off her bat was different, and we were all just in awe. It was clear from that first season that there was something truly special about Tauryn and her career at ETBU. That season was filled with challenges for Tauryn, but that didn’t stop her from achieving success. A year after tearing both ACLs, she was unstoppable and took the country by

storm, showing everyone the player we all knew she was.”

Cummings earned National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-American third-team selection as an at-large, designated player in her freshman year. She was also named American Southwest Conference (ASC) Freshman of the Year and made the NFCA West All-Region second team, All-ASC first team, and ASC All-Tournament team. She led the team with a .432 batting average, collecting 24

RBIs, three home runs, and seven doubles, with a .614 slugging percentage.

“As a freshman, becoming an AllAmerican wasn’t the goal,” Cummings said. “I wasn’t worried about accolades. My main focus was recovering from my knee injuries and concentrating on my mental health. So, earning All-American was a confidence boost that showed me that I am good at softball and can overcome these challenges.”

Cummings’ standout freshman season was just the beginning. Over her four-year

career at ETBU, she achieved continued success, personal growth, and numerous accolades, culminating in a National Championship in June.

“The feeling of being a national champion is unmatched,” Cummings said. “I’m very thankful to be a part of Team 27. Watching the process from start to finish and seeing my teammates have their moments of excellence every week has been so special. Being part of this program has been the biggest blessing in disguise. I’ve grown so much in the last four years, and I’m in a much healthier place mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.”

The ETBU defense shone throughout the 2024 season, delivering a highlight reel of impressive plays. Cummings at third base, along with shortstop Tristen Maddox, began their college careers together as freshmen and have since developed a seamless synergy on the left side of the infield. They learned to lean on each other on and off the field.

“Tristen and I were in the same recruiting class. When we come together on the field, it is just magic. She knows what I am thinking and has been someone who has really had my back throughout our time at ETBU.”

But Tauryn’s softball success wasn’t the only reason she came to ETBU. Her biggest goal was a college degree, which she achieved in May by earning a Bachelor of Business Administration.

Cummings reflected on her journey, “When I look back, I am just so proud of myself. I am thankful that God has carried me to this point. I have earned a college degree. I never thought I would be here, and I am grateful to God and the people in my life who have helped me reach this milestone. My mom sacrificed a lot for me. I come from a single-parent household. So, my mom worked long hours and bent over backward to ensure my sister and I had everything we needed to succeed. She has been my backbone. She is the reason I am here. She didn’t have the opportunity to get a college education, so this degree that I earned is for both of us.”

Cummings expresses deep gratitude for the Tiger Family’s unwavering support, saying, “ETBU is an amazing community. I have been supported by my friends and professors but also by alumni. When I talk to Coach Shirley about my goals and aspirations, 15 minutes later, she sends me

“Being part of this program has been the biggest blessing in disguise. I’ve grown so much in the last four years, and I’m in a much healthier place mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.”

-Tauryn Cummings

a text with contact information for alumni with experience in what I want to do that has helped me network for my future.”

Cummings has ambitious plans. She completed a summer internship with the Houston Astros and is passionate about pursuing a career in Major League Baseball. Additionally, owning an apartment complex or a Chick-fil-A franchise are also part of her future aspirations.

“As a coaching staff, the thing that we have been most impressed with about Tauryn is her growth as a person, teammate, student, and leader,” Shirley said. “She has truly embraced the culture of our program and has evolved into a player who contributes more than just on the field. She uplifts those around her, and we are incredibly proud of the woman she has become.”

Tauryn’s drive and determination are evident in her ambitious plans for the future. Whether it’s making a mark in Major League Baseball, real estate, or the food industry, she is poised to bring her passion and work ethic to whatever endeavor she pursues. Her journey is one to watch as she follows the Lord’s plan for her life.

Out of Comfort, Into Purpose

ETBU VOLLEYBALL’S JOURNEY OF FAITH AND SERVICE IN CHILE

Stepping outside of one’s comfort zone involves pushing oneself beyond familiar boundaries, facing challenges, taking risks, and exploring new experiences that may initially feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar.

The Tiger Athletic Mission Experience (TAME) in Chile brought the East Texas Baptist University Volleyball team fresh experiences, exposure to a unique culture, and extraordinary opportunities to express God’s love in ways they had never imagined.

“The Spirit of God was present in this trip, and we were all moved by it,” junior management and marketing major Maddison Harris said. “We were pushed out of our comfort zones like we had never been before. We had opportunities to pray out loud over large groups of people, share our testimonies, and share the Word of God with nonbelievers. Through volleyball clinics, one-on-one time with the kids, and worshiping the Lord together, we hope we impacted their lives as much as they did ours. Seeing the love for Jesus each of my teammates had was inspiring.”

ETBU Volleyball visited Chile during the University’s Spring Break holiday to do mission work March 8-16. The eight-day TAME trip allowed the student-athletes to use their God-given talents and abilities to share their faith with people across the globe as they strive to transform the world for Christ.

During the mission trip, the team and ETBU administrators worked alongside two of ETBU’s educational partners, Grace College-Santiago and Temuco Baptist College. The student-athletes immersed

themselves in various projects and had the opportunity to play three matches during the week. They hosted camps, worked with local students in the classroom, led prayer sessions, and had conversations aimed at making a Kingdom impact on the lives of those they encountered.

“Many of us had experiences that changed our lives, from having children give their lives to Christ, kids praying and hearing the Gospel for the first time, and just showing them what God’s love truly looks like,” Harris said.

The student-athletes were given several opportunities to share their testimonies and pray over the people they encountered. Sophomore business administration major Madison Chandler shared one interaction she had with her host family on the trip.

“During my time at the host home, we began to talk about our faith. Our host mother shared that her daughter did not have faith in Jesus Christ. She had been struggling with depression, which caused her to be apprehensive about a relationship with Jesus. After getting to know the family, I was able to share my testimony of how the Lord saved me from depression and led me to His glorious light. I was able to share the Gospel with this sweet girl, and it was the most beautiful moment on the trip for me. I cannot thank the Lord enough for placing me exactly where I needed to be at the perfect time.”

While at Temuco Baptist College, ETBU donated 1,000 books to expand the school’s English library. The team also served in several classrooms, helping students with their English, hosting

volleyball clinics, and interacting with the children on the playground.

“Our team and coaches held a volleyball clinic for students at the school who play volleyball or wanted to learn,” junior nursing major Avery Reid said. “It was cool to see the students play with so much joy. They didn’t care about who won or lost, they were just happy to be there and participate. I was touched by this because sometimes it’s easy for us to get distracted by other things and lose sight of the simple joys that sports bring us.”

The team played three games in front of large crowds while in Chile. In the final game, they played Club Morano, which has four players who currently play on the Chilean National team. Despite playing with different rules and in a new country, the Tigers won all three matches during the week. After each game, ETBU volleyball players talked with the fans in attendance.

“The crowds were some of the largest many of us have ever played in front of, and the atmosphere was incredible. Every single person was involved and cheering throughout the games,” graduate student Lillie Hill said. “I can truly say I have never experienced something like that before.

“The Spirit of God was present in this trip, and we were all moved by it. We were pushed out of our comfort zones like we had never been before.”

- Maddison Harris

After the match, we were able to talk to the girls on the other team, and all the fans came down to the floor to meet us. We signed autographs for so many fans who were there and took pictures with them. A lot of our friends from the churches we visited were there also, so it was touching to see their support for us.”

Since 2016, ETBU Athletics has sponsored TAME trips to Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Brazil, Serbia, Israel, Jamaica, Slovakia, France, Japan, Greece, Scotland, Australia, Spain, Portugal, Northern Ireland, New Zealand, Chile, and Honduras.

“Our trip to Chile was truly life-changing for me and the team. Watching our athletes pour into the students of Chile and share the Gospel was something I will never forget,” Head Volleyball Coach Mallory Matthews (’16) said. “They showed courage and boldness throughout the trip, doing things they had never done before. It was amazing to see that even when there was a language barrier, God makes all things possible. I am so proud of our team and thankful to work at a university where making a Kingdom impact is a priority. The Lord was evident throughout our time in Chile, and He moved in ways we didn’t even know were possible.”

Hoops & Hope

ETBU MEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM EMBARKS ON TRANSFORMATIVE MISSION TRIP TO ROATAN, HONDURAS

In a journey blending sports and service, the East Texas Baptist University Men’s Basketball team departed Texas for Roatan, Honduras. This excursion, part of ETBU’s Tiger Athletic Mission Experience (TAME), marked a significant milestone as the 20th trip for the athletic department’s TAME initiative and the second international mission for the men’s basketball team.

The partnership with the International Sports Federation (ISF) set the stage for a week-long mission that intertwined basketball clinics, local ministry collaborations, and competitive games. During the trip, the ETBU student-athletes and coaches touched lives and sowed

seeds of faith through the game of basketball and service.

Opening their mission with a camp for local 7th through 9th graders, the Tigers engaged in various games, fostering a spirit of camaraderie. Through small group devotionals facilitated by translators, the team delved into discussions on servant leadership—a theme that resonated deeply and sparked meaningful dialogues about Jesus and His teachings. The day’s efforts culminated in an evening session with local teenagers, providing a further platform to share the Gospel and play basketball.

For ETBU graduate student Jayden Williams, the mission trip was nothing

short of transformative. “My mission trip experience to Roatan was life-changing,” Williams reflected. “As I continue to walk through life, my perspective of how truly blessed I am has completely changed. I encountered so many different people in Honduras, and they have impacted me in such a positive way.”

One of the most humbling experiences was serving at the Dump Ministry with Roatan Mission, where team members prepared and distributed food to local families. Witnessing the stark living conditions firsthand was a poignant reminder of the disparity between the student-athletes’ lives and those they were serving. The afternoon’s reflection

“As I continue to walk through life, my perspective of how truly blessed I am has completely changed.”

- Jayden Williams

at the beach was followed by another basketball clinic, emphasizing the Gospel’s message and strengthening bonds with local youth.

The team’s final camp at Abundant Life Fellowship Church saw the Tigers engaging local students in basketball drills, competitions, and heart-to-heart discussions about God’s love and servant leadership. The children eagerly received personal mementos, such as player cards featuring favorite Bible verses, cementing a lasting connection.

Visiting the Roatan Rehabilitation Center, ETBU players rolled up their sleeves for practical tasks like constructing chicken coops and moving sand, all while sharing

personal faith testimonies. A spontaneous worship session with music and dancing provided a joyful bonding experience with the residents.

The Tigers played three basketball games during the mission experience, two games against the Honduran National Team. Despite falling short in the first matchup, the Tigers claimed victory in the second, highlighting their athletic engagements on a high note.

Williams cherished his interaction with a player from the Honduran National Team. “The conversation was so fruitful, and I was amazed at how grateful he was to be in the position he was in playing for the national team. Overall, the trip was a

wonderful experience and strengthened my relationship with the Lord.”

The final day in Honduras was a mix of worship at their host family’s church and relaxation with beachside activities, ziplining, and an evening of local entertainment.

“I am so thankful for our players,” said Head Men’s Basketball Coach Chris Lovell. “I have seen them grow in their relationship with Christ through all the experiences we have had together. Their character and how they have responded to many things outside their comfort zones have been outstanding. My prayer is that we would never be the same as a result of this trip.”

The Great Commission Center at East Texas Baptist University was filled with community leaders, students, and faculty gathered to celebrate a legacy of service and generosity. The 2024 Good Samaritan Award & ETBU Scholarship Banquet, inspired by Jesus’ timeless parable of Luke 10:25-37, honored the Thomas Whitfield Davidson Foundation for its unwavering commitment to “loving your neighbor as yourself.” This event highlighted the foundation’s extraordinary impact on ETBU

TIGER Alumni

Pointing to a Parable

ETBU CELEBRATES T. WHITFIELD DAVIDSON FOUNDATION AT THE GOOD SAMARITAN AWARD & SCHOLARSHIP BANQUET

From left to right: Leon Carter (’80), Bill Runnels, Bill Cornelius Jr., Robert Duvall, and Dr. J. Blair Blackburn.

and the broader East Texas community, recognizing its dedication to providing transformative educational opportunities and uplifting countless lives.

“With the missional focus of developing Christian servant leaders among the graduates of ETBU, tonight’s dinner emphasizes recognizing humble servanthood in our community with the Good Samaritan Award to the Trustees of the T. Whitfield Davidson Foundation,” ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn said.

“The Davidson Foundation has constantly and generously upheld the high calling of Jesus Christ to love others in your neighborhoods and community. As the Good Samaritan stepped out of his

established path to assist the one in need, so has the T. Whitfield Davidson Foundation made it their mission to assist others by advancing the heart of Judge Davidson and extending his legacy of servant leadership.”

The T. Whitfield Davidson Foundation was established through the legacy of former Chief Judge of the Northern District of Texas, Judge Thomas Whitfield Davidson. Hailing from Marshall, Judge Davidson’s foundation has consistently demonstrated remarkable generosity, providing vital support to non-profit organizations in Marshall and Harrison County. East Texas Baptist University recognized the T. Whitfield Davidson

Foundation for their steadfast partnership in advancing the institution’s mission of providing Christ-centered education.

For years, the T. Whitfield Davidson Foundation has been instrumental in supporting countless ETBU students through scholarships, ensuring access to transformative educational opportunities. McKool Smith and Gillam & Smith served as presenting sponsors for the event.

McKool Smith Principal Lawyer Jennifer Truelove emphasized the impact the event has on the community, “We are grateful for this opportunity to support East Texas Baptist University as we unite in advancing Christian higher education and to celebrate one of East Texas region’s leading community organizations in the T. Whitfield Davidson Foundation. Thank you all for partnering with McKool Smith, Gillam & Smith, and ETBU to recognize the generous philanthropic work of the Davidson Foundation. We congratulate the Board of Directors.”

The banquet served as a tribute to the visionary leadership of the Davidson Foundation’s Trustees under the chairmanship of Chief Judge of the United States District Court – the Eastern District of Texas Rodney Gilstrap. The foundation’s dedication to serving the community and empowering future generations aligns with ETBU’s ethos of compassion and service.

Carter Arnett Bennett & Perez served as the evening’s award sponsor. Principal with the firm and ETBC alumnus Leon Carter (’80) delivered compelling words for all attendees.

“The thing that Judge Davidson did as he lived his life, he understood the principle that life can only be understood backward, but it must be lived going forward. That’s what Judge Davidson did. He was a forward thinker. He knew the rule of law had to apply to everyone to be the rule of law. To be just, he knew he had to be a forward thinker; he couldn’t live in the past.”

The Good Samaritan Award & ETBU Scholarship Banquet was an evening of celebration, reflection, and commitment to the values of service and generosity. ETBU expressed gratitude to all attendees as they honored Judge Thomas Whitfield Davidson’s legacy and the enduring impact of the T. Whitfield Davidson Foundation upon East Texas communities and organizations.

Celebrating a Legacy of Service

ETBU HONORS DR. DAVID DYKES WITH SERVANT LEADERSHIP AWARD

As people from across East Texas poured into the Green Acres Baptist Church Crosswalk Conference Center in Tyler, Texas, a sense of admiration and gratitude filled the air. East Texas Baptist University hosted the 2024 David Dykes Servant Leadership Award & ETBU Scholarship Dinner to honor the legacy of Dr. David Dykes. Esteemed guests and supporters gathered to pay homage to Dr. Dykes’ lifetime of servant leadership and to raise vital funds for scholarships that directly impact the lives of ETBU students.

Dr. Dykes, who served as the Senior Pastor of Green Acres Baptist Church from 1991 to 2021, has long been recognized for his dedication to Christ and servant leadership principles. Throughout his pastoral tenure, he made significant contributions to the Tyler community and beyond, embodying the spirit of faith in action.

“On behalf of East Texas Baptist University, Michelle and I thank you all for joining us in honoring a generational Christian servant leader in Dr. David Dykes,” President J. Blair Blackburn said. “I am so very blessed to celebrate Brother David, who has been my pastor, my spiritual guide, and my friend. As I think of the legacy of David Dykes’ demonstrated spiritual leadership, he is not only deserving to receive ETBU’s inaugural Servant Leadership Award, he is also worthy of having this honor carry his name in perpetuity.”

The Presenting Sponsor for the event was Sheryl Rogers Palmer and her family in honor of their mother, Louise Herrington Pettis Rogers Ornelas.

“Sherry and the Rogers family recognize the impact that Green Acres Baptist Church had on Louise Ornelas,” Dr. Blackburn said. “Their generous support as our sponsor of the David Dykes Servant

Leadership Award pays tribute to Ms. Lou’s unconditional love for her family, her devotion to East Texas Baptist University and Green Acres Baptist Church, and her admiration and appreciation for David Dykes and the late Dr. Paul Powell as her pastors. Thank you, Sherry Palmer, for your investment in scholarships to develop Christian servant leaders through ETBU.”

The David Dykes Servant Leadership Award & ETBU Scholarship Dinner honored Dr. Dykes’ ministry and service and also highlighted the importance of nurturing Christian leaders equipped to serve God’s Kingdom. The event served as a platform to raise scholarship funds, ensuring that present and future East Texas Baptist University students receive the support they need to pursue a Christcentered education and positively impact their communities.

“Thank you to Dr. Blackburn and ETBU for this honor,” Dr. Dykes said. “The ETBU motto is ’May the Light on the Hill Never Die.’ They have not experienced mission

drift and have stayed true to their calling. At ETBU, they are doing work that will last for all eternity.”

Attendees at the David Dykes Servant Leadership Award & ETBU Scholarship Dinner were treated to an evening of inspiration and reflection, highlighted by hymns of praise performed by the ETBU Department of Music. Additionally, guests were privileged to hear a heartfelt testimonial from ETBU senior Christian ministry major Avery Abshier. Avery’s testimonial, filled with personal experiences and insights about her time as an ETBU Tiger, further emphasized the importance of servant leadership and its profound impact on individuals and communities.

“ETBU does a beautiful job allowing students to get involved in serving others,” Abshier said. “I was encouraged to serve with the Baptist Student Ministry at Kids Club during my sophomore year, and it has been one of my biggest blessings during my time on the Hill. Every Tuesday, I get to spend time with kids in the

community and show them God’s love. Through service at ETBU, I have seen God work in my own story, my calling, and the lives of the kids I minister to weekly.”

At ETBU, the integration of biblical faith and learning is fundamental to developing graduates who are equipped to be Kingdom-minded leaders in their respective vocations. Dr. Dykes’ longstanding connection with ETBU underscores the shared commitment to equipping servant leaders within the University community.

“Whether at home or abroad, in classrooms with our faculty or in the community with our partners, we are developing devoted Christian servant leaders like Dr. Dykes,” Dr. Blackburn said. “Through Dr. Dykes service on the ETBU Board of Trustees, his training of Christian ministry students in religion classes, and his biblical teaching at ETBU Chapel services, Brother David has modeled for our students true spiritual leadership that exemplifies the humble servanthood of Jesus Christ.”

From left to right: Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, Sherry Rogers Palmer, Dr. David Dykes, Cindy Dykes, Michelle Blackburn.

Voices rise, and instruments tune together in worship in front of a crowd of people in a small building on the outskirts of Petah Tikva, Israel, in March 2023. Fifty-two students and faculty toured Israel for the East Texas Baptist Symphonic Band and Concert Choir Performance Tour as a part of ETBU’s Global Study and Serve program. Among the venues was the Baptist Village (BV) of Petah Tikva, a camp and conference center 20 kilometers east of Tel Aviv. There, eight time zones away from Marshall, the band and choir students met a fellow Tiger in Keith Riddle, the director of the Baptist Village.

Learning on the Hill

If you trace Riddle’s steps back to 1981, you will find him beginning his undergraduate studies at East Texas Baptist College after graduating from Marshall High School. He was familiar with the campus as his father, Dr. Gaylon Riddle (’64), served on staff at the College. Dr. Riddle, who passed away in 2019, was an ETBC graduate. He held many positions at the College, including alumni relations, public relations, student foundation, and associate vice president. Keith’s brother,

Building on Faith

KEITH RIDDLE’S PATH FROM EAST TEXAS TO ISRAEL

Dane Riddle (’80), also attended ETBC.

“ETBC was a central part of my life, family, and circle of friends, even while I was still in high school,” Keith said. “I loved the closeness of the student body and nurturing environment of the school.”

At ETBC, Riddle discovered his calling to be an engineer, which led him to further his education at Texas A&M University. However, his time on the Hill played a foundational role in his future because of the Tiger Family's investment in his life.

“Unlike other schools I have attended, there was an intimacy among the student body at ETBC, perhaps like that of living in a small town,” Riddle reflected. “There was no chance of getting lost in the crowd because each student was surrounded by a loving, supportive circle of friends, professors, and administrators.”

Retirement Revelations

Following his education, Riddle spent 30 years in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. His career led his family around the world, opening the door for them to live in Israel from 2004-10, where he managed construction on Israeli army, air forces, and navy bases. His wife, Sally, served as the Volunteer Coordinator and Culture and Language Coach for the Baptist team in Israel for several of those years. Their children went to Israeli schools, and the family became fluent in Hebrew. All of this set them on a path to their current ministry in Petah Tikva.

“In January 2020, I was planning to retire from the Army Corps of Engineers,” Riddle said. “One of Sally’s and my retirement goals was to serve as volunteers with Baptists working overseas in Israel and other countries for several months each year. However, two weeks prior to my retirement date, a Baptist friend living in Jerusalem reached out to Sally on Facebook with the following message.

‘Hey Sally, I had a dream a few nights ago ... that ‘C,’ and I walked into the clubhouse office where ... on the table was a folder for ‘C’ to review, and it was an employment application from Keith to fill the manager position at the Baptist Village. I was so excited but confused at the same time because I wasn’t sure how it could work when he lived in Texas. We have a huge need at the BV for someone to oversee the logistical operations.’

“Sally and I rejoiced in the revelation of God’s plan for our future and began the employment process the following day.”

The Baptist Village

The Baptist Village has a history that is longer than that of the modern country of Israel. Baptist Representative Dr. Robert Lindsey purchased the first property in 1946, two years before Israel was established as a nation. The original vision for the BV was to be a farming cooperative for believers, but it served as a children’s home in the 1950s and early 1960s, then a boarding school, before becoming a camp and conference center in the early 1970s. The BV has continued functioning as a camp and conference center.

The BV’s mission is to provide a place for the growth, encouragement, and support of like-minded believers in Israel. The organization accomplishes this in several capacities and multiple languages. From September to May, the Baptist

Village is busy hosting retreats and conferences for Messianic Jewish congregations, Evangelical Arab churches, and various ministries. These range in focus from children and youth to soldiers and families. From June through July, the weekdays are filled with children, youth, and family camps. The International Sports Properties is a tenant of the Baptist Village and provides a place for games and practices of the Israel Associations of Baseball and Softball.

Israeli-led intensive discipleship programs for pre-military preparation and young adults occur several times yearly. The participants live at the Baptist Village for about three months while being involved in activities that help them mature spiritually, physically, emotionally and socially.

Each Friday evening, Or Hachaim/ The Light of Life, a Russian-language congregation, meets for Bible study and worship. On Saturday afternoons, there is an English-language Bible study and worship for the international community, followed by a Hebrew-language Bible study and worship service as a part of the All Nations Congregation.

“I get to see and experience God

Partnering With Believers

The Baptist Village continues to make an impact in Israel and encourages everyone to become a part of its work.

working through a wide array of people in the Body of Messiah in Israel and through volunteers from the U.S. and other countries who come to serve in Israel,” Riddle said.

Recently, the Baptist Village participated in the emergency response effort to the ongoing war in the region, serving displaced individuals and families in Israel. International volunteers have partnered with the BV to provide shelter, food, worship, and activities for those seeking refuge and safety.

Keith credits his involvement with the Royal Ambassadors, youth and discipleship programs, and the Baptist Student Union during his formative years for instilling in him that all believers are called to be ministers and serve through some capacity in the Body of Messiah.

“This has been an important principle for my wife and I as we have lived and served in the U.S. and overseas throughout my secular career and most recently at the Baptist Village,” Riddle explained. “It is amazing to see God at work around us and to be able to participate with Him. We are extremely grateful to have had this opportunity to be a part of what God is doing in Israel in our generation.”

People can stay in touch with the Baptist Village through its Facebook and Instagram pages and newsletter. The newsletter lists the Baptist Village’s needs and shares its ongoing prayer requests. These include: The spirit of God to dwell at the BV; All who come to the BV, both believers and nonbelievers, would experience God; The BV Team would hear the voice of God and have a clear understanding of who and what they need to be; Those who are called to support the BV would hear and obey the voice of God.

“I am thankful for all of the Baptists who support us through the Cooperative Program and the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering,” Riddle said. “Without your generous gifts, the Baptist Village would not be able to serve the Arab and Jewish Body of Messiah, which is experiencing considerable growth.”

CLASS NOTES

1960s

Dr. Carl C. Bradley (’62) recently celebrated his 70th year as a church organist with a classical and sacred music concert. He began his career at age 14 at Southside Baptist Church in Palestine, Texas, and served at churches in Longview, Waco, and Temple, Texas. Additionally, Dr. Bradley was a teacher and administrator at Pine Tree ISD in Longview, Dean of Student Judicial Affairs at Baylor University in Waco, and Vice President of Student and Spiritual Life at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor in Belton. Now, he serves as a supervisor and mentor for first-year teachers seeking alternative certification through the Texas Education Agency in Central Texas and is on the Board of Advocates at Baylor University’s George W. Truett Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Becky, reside in Temple.

1970s

Ronald Dinkins (’78) retired from his role as Director of Gas Systems Support in February 2024 after 45 years with Gulf South Pipeline Company in Houston.

1980s

Kathy (Anderson) Seidler (’82) is retiring from the Canadian Baptist Theological Seminary & College, where she has served as Library Director since August 1990. She credits the momentum and longevity of her success

ACCENT on Alumni

to the years she spent as a student worker on the campus of ETBC. Now, Seidler looks forward to being a fulltime grandmother.

Larry Williams (’84) is currently the President and CEO of Skyenne Investments, LLC. and Skyenneco, Inc. in Lufkin, Texas. Larry and his wife, Nema, have been married for 37 years.

Stephen Woytkewicz (’88) retired after 19 years of service as a police officer in Austin, Texas. His wife, Pattie (Ingram) Woytkewicz (’89), continues to homeschool the last two of their nine children. They reside in Lockhart, Texas.

1990s

Dr. Spencer Wagley (’94) serves as the Associate Vice President of Strategic Planning, Effectiveness, Accreditation, and Grant Management/SACSCOC Accreditation Liaison at Trinity Valley Community College in Athens, Texas.

2000s

Dr. Ryan Fogg (’00) is in his 19th year as Professor of Music and Director of Keyboard Studies at CarsonNewman University in Jefferson City, Tenn. Fogg was

awarded a sabbatical for the Spring 2024 semester, during which he performed 25 solo piano recitals in 16 different states and the District of Columbia, culminating in his debut performance in Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Thomas (‘07) and Jenny (Wheeler) Sewell (’06) recently moved to Sheridan, Ark., where Thomas serves on staff at First Baptist Church. Previously, Thomas spent 10 years at Central Baptist Church in North Little Rock, Ark., in ministry ranging from student ministry to missions and discipleship.

2010s

Rachel (Harris) Graves (’10, ’16) completed her 14th year of teaching and was awarded Tatum Elementary’s Teacher of the Year in Tatum, Texas.

Jacob Bigford (’11) is the pastor of First Baptist Church Alta Loma in Santa Fe, Ariz. He and his wife, Laurin, have been married for 15 years and have two daughters, Kaizley and Hollyn.

Amanda (McAllister) Cooper (’17) and her husband, Riley, were married on December 3, 2023, and reside in Anna, Texas.

Brinsley Chance (’18) serves as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst in Oklahoma City.

Ciera (White) Andrews (’19) has been a critical care pediatric nurse for two years, working with children with cardiac defects.

Kyla (Arbuckle) Self (’19, ’20) lives in Haughton, La., and owns a business that sells large wholesale brands to local businesses such as boutiques, interior designers, and home decor stores.

2020s

Kayla (Green) Allen (’16, ’18) was named among the Top 30 under 30 High School Volleyball Coaches by the American Volleyball Coaches Association in 2022. She coaches at Vista Ridge High School in Cedar Park, Texas. Her husband, Craig Allen (’17), was recently named Senior Director of Sports and eSports departments at the YMCA of Central Texas in Cedar Park.

Diana (Gomez) Evans (’20) married her husband Alex on September 8, 2023. Diana is the Assistant Director of Nursing for a home hospice company in Arlington, Texas.

Brett (’21) and Jacqueline (Comparin) Rose (’21) were married on December 9, 2023.

TIGER CUBS

2000s

Robin and Melissa (Abbott) Mathew (’05) welcomed their son, Micah Joseph, into the world on December 22, 2022.

2010s

Claire (McCaslin)

Pennington (’11) and her husband, Christopher, welcomed their baby girl, Morgan Marie, on May 1, 2023.

Brett Forbus (’16) and his wife, Shelby, welcomed their daughter, Kallie Grace, into the world on October 3, 2023.

Jonah (’18, ’19) and Laura (McFarland) Boaz (’18, ’20), along with their two-year-old daughter, Becca, welcomed a second daughter, Eden, in November of 2023.

2020s

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

Punjak (’21) celebrated the birth of their son, Jeffrey Allan, on February 20, 2024.

IN MEMORIAM

1940s

Dr. J. Carl Norris (’42) passed away in January 2024. Carl lived an exceptional life, blessed by the grace of God with abundant family and friends, a wonderful career of service, and a marriage that lasted almost eight decades.

Ruby “Tiney” (Sessums)

Ayers (’48) passed away in March 2024. After many years of teaching in Avinger and Hughes Springs, Texas, Ayers retired with her husband and enjoyed their grandchildren and raising cattle.

Irene (Brown) Sisk (’48) went to be with the Lord on March 25, 2024. Irene earned her Math and Business Administration degree and met her husband, Walter Lee Sisk, Jr., at ETBC. Walter went to medical school and spent his career as a doctor in Bonham, Texas. Irene was a stay-at-home mom and was very active in church and community activities. In 2020, Irene established the Sisk Health Services Clinic at ETBU to serve the medical needs of the campus community. Mrs. Sisk was awarded the Golden Lightkeeper Alumni Award in 2022.

Mildred (Fortenberry)

Gordon (’49) went to be with the Lord in March 2024. Gordon will be remembered for her love of God, devotion to prayer, studying her Bible,

CUB CLUB Sign up for

The Alumni Office is excited to offer the ETBU Cub Club program to the children and grandchildren in the ETBU family. Cubs can be enrolled at any age from birth through junior high. Members of the ETBU Cub Club receive a birthday card from the University each year along with their choice from a selection of Tiger apparel and accessories.

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER YOUR CUB AT WWW.ETBU.EDU/CUBCLUB

playing the piano, singing hymns, and loving her neighbors, friends, and family.

1950s

Colonel Richard “Gene” Grammer (’51) went to be with the Lord in April 2024. Grammer was a proud two-way player in football while at ETBC and entered the Air Force following graduation. Grammer enjoyed a decorated career in the military and was honored with numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal. Grammer was also a faithful supporter of ETBU throughout his life. He earned a Golden Blazer and was awarded the Golden Lightkeeper Alumni Award in 2010. Gene was a

member of the Tiger Athletic Hall of Fame for his gridiron accomplishments.

Lywayne (Palmer) DavisOusley (’52) passed away on August 15, 2023. She spent her career at Kilgore College in Kilgore, Texas, teaching business classes for 33 years.

Joynelle (Gammon) Baker (’53) passed away on January 7, 2024. Baker developed and directed the graded children’s choir programs for churches in Arkansas and wrote literature and taught classes for the Southern Baptist Convention on developing graded choir programs.

Florine (Johnson) Hamilton (’54) went to be with the Lord in March 2024. Most of her 31-year teaching career was devoted to molding the lives of third graders. Hamilton loved her family; most importantly, she loved the Lord and could

STAYconnected

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.

always be found reading and studying the Bible.

Dr.James Best (’55) went to be with the Lord on June 13, 2024. Dr. Best served churches in Texas and Alabama and led mission efforts in Mexico, Jamaica, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Guatemala. He was a proud member of the ETBC Class of 1955 and established the James and Bobbie Best Endowed Scholarship. Dr. Best was a member of the Legacy of 1912 Society and was honored with the Golden Lightkeeper Alumni Award in 2014.

Colonel Carl Edwin Bilderback (’57) went to be with the Lord in January 2024. Bilderback was a chaplain in the United States Air Force and a pastor of many churches. He loved the Lord with all his heart, mind, and strength.

Jerald (Jerry) A. Pitts (’57) went to be with the Lord on January 1, 2023. Pitts spent many years selling electrical supplies in Texas and Oklahoma. He enjoyed serving the Lord in many capacities with his church. Pitts was a

loving husband, father, grandfather, and dear friend.

Ronny William Barner (’58) went to be with the Lord in April 2024. Barner served as a Corporal in the Army, and after graduating from seminary, he served 62 years in various leadership positions at West University Baptist Church in Houston.

Reverend Troy M. Long (’59) went to be with the Lord on December 19, 2023. Long served on the staff of Baptist churches as music director and youth and education director until he accepted God’s call to preach and teach the Gospel, resulting in 62 years of service.

1960s

Dr. Galen “Mac” Frederick McBride (’60) passed away in May 2022. Throughout his life, Dr. McBride held many positions, including college math professor, Dean of Students, Sunday school teacher, Gideon speaker, community theater actor,

Harrison County Commissioner, and National Guard member.

Linda (Hill) Cliett (’62) passed away earlier this year. Cliett served students as an educator throughout her career, and she loved ETBU. ETBU awarded Cliett a Golden Blazer in 2022.

Harry Odell Klutts (’63) passed away on July 22, 2023. Klutts had lived in Buna, Texas, for 18 years and was a retired Baptist minister.

Walter Stone Sealy (’64) passed away peacefully on February 23, 2024, at home and surrounded by family. Sealy was a loving husband of 51 years, father of two, grandfather of three, and mentor to countless blessed individuals. He lived out his faith in Christ every day.

Terry Edward Douglas (’67) went to be with the Lord in March 2024. Douglas loved fishing, dark roast Community Coffee, traveling, and being a pastor.

Pastor

Jackie Ray Thompson (’69) entered the presence of Jesus on May 11, 2024. Thompson was a faithful servant of the church throughout his career. He is survived by his wife, Maeva (Poole) Thompson (’74), daughter, Melady Thompson (’97), and son, James.

1970s

Linda (Coleman) Ford (’72) passed away on December 29, 2023. For 37 years, Ford was a beloved school teacher in the Marshall community.

She loved teaching social studies and history.

James “Mike” Smith (’73) of San Augustine, Texas, passed away in March 2024. Smith was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church San Augustine and is survived by Ilene (Jones) Smith (’71).

1990s

Jeffrey Allen Reedy (’93) passed away on February 26, 2024. Loyal to his friends, generous to strangers, wise in the spiritual life, and dedicated to ministry, Reedy leaves a legacy of inspiration, encouragement, and transformative love.

Suellen Swank (’93) passed away in March 2024. Swank loved traveling and spent 30 years teaching middle school in Marshall. Among many talents, she was a multi-instrument musician. Swank loved children and was an avid dog lover.

FRIENDS

Jack Beadles, ETBC Dean of Students from 1970 to 1982, passed away on February 9, 2024. At the time of his passing, he lived in Claremore, Okla. Beadles is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann Beadles.

In memory of

Dr. Troy Ladine

1956-2024

Dr. Troy Arthur Ladine went to be with the Lord on Friday, May 24, 2024. Dr. Ladine was a long-time Professor of Biology at East Texas Baptist University, joining the Biology Department in August 2001. During his tenure at ETBU, he taught General Ecology, Environmental Issues, Population Biology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, and General Biology courses.

Biology is the study of the living world created by God. Therefore, the materials in Dr. Ladine’s courses were a presentation toward a greater understanding of God. The study of the physical world can bring us closer to God and provide us with a better concept of our place in God’s creation. Because of these beliefs, Dr. Ladine’s favorite Bible verses were about the earth and our place in it. Specifically, he loved Job 12:7-8 because it shows that we can learn about God through His creation and come closer to God by studying His creation. “But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you.”

Dr. Ladine was well-regarded by his colleagues. Dr. Roy Darville, Associate

Dean of the School of Natural and Social Sciences and Professor of Biology, worked with Dr. Ladine for the entirety of his time at ETBU.

“Troy was passionate about having students really think about and understand God’s creation,” Dr. Darville explained. “He hoped to instill in the students a desire for them to become stewards of God’s creation. He loved to conduct ecology research and to get our students involved in research. He was a leader in developing undergraduate students with high-quality research skills in the ETBU Biology Department and the state of Texas. This helped prepare students for their future careers and enrollment in graduate programs.”

He mentored numerous students, many of whom remained close to him even after they graduated. Dr. Ladine had an exceptional ability to inspire and empower his students. He fostered within them a love for learning and an appreciation for the natural world.

“Last year, as I walked across campus with Cade Colewell, a history major, I asked him a general question about the good stuff in his life. He responded that he felt a new responsibility for God’s

world because he took Dr. Ladine’s Environmental Issues class,” Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Thomas Sanders said. “As I think about Dr. Ladine’s legacy, he certainly impacted biology majors, but it may be the lives, attitudes, and beliefs he changed regarding Christians’ biblical responsibility for creation in the broader student body that will have its most significant impact.”

Born on June 19, 1956, in Sidney, Neb., to Richard and Phyllis Ladine, Dr. Ladine graduated from Gurley High School and then earned a degree in biology from Bartlesville Wesleyan College, where he was a member of the track team. After graduation, he worked as a consultant for several organizations, including Phillips Petroleum Company and the USDA Soil Conservation Service. He went on to earn a master’s degree from the University of South Dakota and a doctoral degree from the University of Memphis. Dr. Ladine served at universities in South Dakota, Tennessee, and Nebraska before joining ETBU’s faculty.

The ETBU community will cherish the legacy Dr. Ladine left on the Hill, his commitment to Christ-centered scholarship, and his love for his students.

WAYS to Give

East Texas Baptist University is called to provide a quality Christcentered education to students. With the help of alumni and friends of the University, ETBU offers scholarships to students based on Christian leadership demonstrated in church, school, and community. Please consider making a contribution to the Christian Leadership Scholarship program to develop Christian servant leaders to impact the Kingdom.

Over the last century, ETBU has educated generations of Christian servant leaders. We have over 1,800 students studying at ETBU, volunteering in our community, and going into the world on mission. Help us continue transforming the lives of 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, East Texas Baptist University 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 comprises 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 Christ-centered mission and ongoing work of the University through monthly giving.

Like all contributions to ETBU, you decide how the gift will be used.

WINNING WITH THE FRIEND WITHIN MONICA PIERRE (’02)

East Texas Baptist University had the honor of hosting alumna and author Monica R. Pierre (’02) on March 19 at the historic Marshall Grand. Pierre, an inspirational figure in the realms of nursing and writing, returned to her alma mater for a book signing event with ETBU Teague School of Nursing students. Alumni, students, and faculty gathered to gain insights from her experiences and receive copies of her book.

Pierre’s latest book, “Winning with the Friend Within: A Nurse’s Journey of Hope and Five Essentials to Help Heal a Hurting World,” chronicles her journey as a nurse, blending moving anecdotes with life lessons designed to inspire and guide others in their paths to healing and hope.

Pierre is a registered nurse who earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Texas Baptist University in

2002 and a Master of Science in Nursing Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington. She has served in a variety of clinical and managerial roles. Pierre expanded her career as a travel nurse and has cared for patients and clients in a span of communities ranging from indigent populations to highly affluent residents.

She has completed various models of integrative coursework and has earned certifications in holistic health, business, complementary medicine, and spirituality. Her path has allowed her up-close and personal, hands-on education with worldclass leaders, offering unconventional wisdom and mentoring.

Driven by her purpose to ignite others to live a more authentic life, Pierre is a dynamic personality with an intention to bring hope, healing, and inspiration to as many hearts as possible. Pierre is a native of Shreveport, La., and currently lives in the Bay Area of California.

The book signing event at the Marshall Grand was a testament to the enduring bond between Pierre and ETBU. During her address, Pierre reflected on her time at ETBU and how the University’s values and education played a pivotal role in shaping her career and personal goals. She emphasized the importance of faith, resilience, and compassion in both nursing and everyday life.

Join ETBU Director of Alumni Relations Cari Johnson (’94) as she talks with Tiger Alumni of all ages and stages of life about their time on the Hill and beyond! Scan the QR code to hear more from Monica Pierre.

To You, O God, Be the Glory

Now to You who are Creator of all, yet who emptied yourself to be born among the lowest of your creatures,

To You who are Christ victorious, yet who was obedient to death on a shameful cross,

To You who rules the universe, yet who walked on village streets to bring justice to the oppressed and to free the captives,

To You who are holy, yet who rubbed unclean spit and dirt together to heal the blind,

To You who sits enthroned as King of Kings, yet who knelt to wash the sewage-caked feet of those you loved,

To You who takes away the sting of death, yet who wept for those who mourned the death of a brother,

To You who are all powerful, yet who let little children come and sit in your lap,

To You who rages red-hot anger at religious hypocrites, yet who proclaimed forgiveness to a sinner who cried out for mercy,

To You who reigns over all powers and principalities, yet who was accused of casting out demons in the name of Satan,

To You who speaks in fire and cloud on Mt. Sanai, yet who told of your kingdom in stories even the simple understand.

To You who owns riches beyond imagination, yet who had no place to lay your head,

To You be all power and all glory forever and ever, Amen.

A PRAYER FROM DR.

GENE WILKES, DEAN OF B. H. CARROLL THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY AT ETBU

A choir of students lead worship at a Chapel service during ETBU’s annual Spiritual Renewal Week in January. This year’s theme was All Things New inspired by Isaiah 43:16-19.

ETBU STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP INITIATIVE

Throughout our history, the generosity of donors has illuminated the path for ETBU students. By supporting the Light the Way: ETBU Student Scholarship Initiative, you can change lives and create a path for our students to pursue their God-directed purposes. Your investment will provide scholarships to: Christian Leadership Scholars Academic Achievers Students with Financial Need

Partner with us today by making your scholarship gift support online at www.ETBU.edu/LightTheWay.

CONTACT US

Email advancement@ETBU.edu, call 903.923.2071, or visit www.ETBU.edu/LightTheWay

ETBC Tiger Men’s Basketball 1978 Big State Conference Co-Champs

From left to right: Front: James Rogers, Leland Hand, Tony Castillo, Leon Carter, Corky Lindsey, Ricky DeVance Back: Head Coach Jim Webb, Marvin Graham, Ray Vanderford, Blaine Markham, Clifford Gilliard, John Brady, Assistant Coach Terry Gibson

GRADUATE DEGREE