Tiger Pride June 18, 2020 by East Texas Baptist University

ETBU Celebrates Spring 2020 Class at "InPerson" and "Virtual" Commencement Services East Texas Baptist University held its Spring 2020 Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, June 13, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn presided over the socially distanced ceremonies as 173 students received undergraduate degrees and 20 earned graduate degrees, for a total of 193

graduates. Students were allowed to choose their participation style either “inperson” or “virtual” at the celebratory worship services. ETBU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Thomas Sanders, along with the University Deans, donned their academic regalia in honor of the graduates and their achievements. “Commencement is a special time in the life of a University,” Dr. Sanders said. “It is a time for celebration for both the University and the families to join together with pride in celebration of the accomplishments of these students. Each student’s hard work, under the guidance and support of faculty members, staff, family members, and friends has resulted in the accomplishments we recognize today.” Read more.

ETBU Confers Spring 2020 Degrees Virtually The University held a special “virtual” degree conferral for Spring 2020 ETBU graduates on Tuesday, May 19. The livestream event was available on all of ETBU’s social media accounts. Graduates also received a delivery of ETBU graduate gift boxes filled with regalia, and were encouraged to wear their cap and gown to take pictures commemorating their remarkable achievements of completing a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. All ETBU Tigers everywhere, including family and friends, were encouraged to wear Blue and Gold in their honor on May 19.

Watch Virtual Degree Conferral

ETBU Reduces Graduate Tuition Rate, Expands Enrollment Options As ETBU makes plans to begin the Fall 2020 semester, ETBU is striving to make quality, Christian education even more affordable and accessible amid the challenging economic times facing our country. East Texas Baptist reduced the graduate tuition rate by 50% and expanded degree programs in order to serve and meet the increased needs for higher education in the East Texas region. “ETBU seeks to inspire and impact students through a transformative educational experience,” ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn said. “It is our desire to make the Christ-centered education offered here on the Hill more accessible to those seeking a graduate degree, and we are hopeful that the reduced graduate tuition rate, in addition to the new master’s degree plans, will allow more professionals and bachelor’s degree graduates to earn a graduate degree for career advancement and to pursue God’s purposes for their lives.” Read more.

Construction Continues for Chapel on the Hill and Kenny Ponder Park Chapel on the Hill and Kenny Ponder Park construction continues this summer with a scheduled opening for this fall 2020 semester. The chapel and prayer garden will provide a dedicated house of worship and place for prayer on the north end of campus. If you haven't already, please prayerfully consider partnering with us in building a symbol to represent God's vision for faith, fellowship, and unity.

Learn More about Chapel on the Hill and Kenny Ponder Park

Alumni Class Giving ETBU Alumni have made a great impact on the University through their generosity. Throughout the years, members of student organizations, athletic teams, and graduating classes have come together to improve facilities across campus, honor outstanding professors, and establish endowed scholarships to support current ETBU students. Thank you to ETBU Alumni for your faithful giving to your alma mater. Click here to see how your graduating class giving compares to other classes. To help your graduating class increase their giving, click here.

For more information please call: Dr. Scott Bryant Vice President for Advancement 903.923.2069 | sbryant@etbu.edu Emily Roberson Director of Alumni Relations and Advancement Communication 903.923.2043 | eroberson@etbu.edu Reid Adams ('19) Advancement Officer 903.923.2070 | reida@etbu.edu

Stay in touch and share your news with your ETBU Family. Send your career accomplishments and family updates to alumni@etbu.edu or click here to update your information.