Hilltop | Fall 2016

fall 2016 ETBU CELEBRATES ENROLLMENT GROWTH University reaches highest student population in over a decade

Special Section:

Homecoming 2016 100 th Anniversary of Marshall Hall Also Inside: A Lasting Legacy Hilltop Fall 2016 1 Calling Conference

Contributors Managing Editor Allison Peteet (’99) Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Director of Alumni Relations Publication ETBU Marketing and Communication Contributing Writers Emily Roberson Director of Marketing and Communication Becky Davis Director of Design and Media Relations Adam Ledyard Sports Information Director

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.

Dr. Emily Prevost Assistant Provost Katelyn Cooper Photos Becky Davis Caitlin McAdam Emily Roberson James Coreas Lauren Thurman Shelby Savoy University Leadership Dr. J. Blair Blackburn President Dr. Thomas Sanders Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Scott Bryant Vice President for Spiritual Development and University Chaplain Mr. Kevin Caffey Vice President for Enrollment and Administrative Affairs Mr. Ned Calvert Senior Vice President for Financial Affairs Dr. Heather Hadlock Vice President for Student Affairs Mr. Ryan Erwin Vice President for Athletics and Director of Athletics Mrs. Susan Rossman Vice President for Advancement Deans Dr. Joseph D. Brown Dean, Frank S. Groner School of Professional Studies Dr. Rebekah Grigsby Dean, School of Nursing Dr. Colleen Halupa Dean, Online Learning Dr. John L. Harris Dean, School of Christian Studies Dr. Lynn New Dean, School of Natural and Social Sciences Dr. Emily Prevost Acting Dean, Fred Hale School of Business Dr. John Sargent Dean, School of Education Dr. Jerry Summers Dean, School of Humanities Dr. Thomas R. Webster Dean, School of Communication and Performing Arts Dr. Marty Warren Dean, Academic Services and Institutional Research Hilltop is published by ETBU Marketing and Communication

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Adopted by ETBU Board of Trustees Fall 2016 September 2, 2016

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Fall 2016

Contents 4

ETBU Celebrates Enrollment Growth

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Stepping Forward in Faith

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12 New Women’s Ministry Places an Emphasis on Discipleship

14 Homecoming, Founders Day

18 Built to Last

20 Spirit Program Reaches New Heights

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ETBU Celebrates the 100th Anniversary of Marshall Hall

22 Sports Highlights

Fall Sports Finish Strong

26 Faculty Spotlight

Traci Ledford Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Theatre Arts

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28 Comedy and Tragedy

ETBU Theatre Showcases a Range of Productions during

the Fall Season

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30 Servant Feature

A Battle-tested Businessman Invests in the Future

32 Donor Feature

36 Alumni Feature

A Lasting Legacy

A Lifetime of Service

38 Letters and comments can be sent to: alumni@etbu.edu

38 Student Profile New Beginnings

40 Ministry Spotlight

Alumna Creates Connections

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Calling Conference

44 Accent on Alumni

Update Online: Visit: www.etbu.edu/ alumniupdate Please send any information for publishing or change of personal information to: Alumni Relations East Texas Baptist University One Tiger Drive Hilltop Fall 2016 3 Marshall, TX 75670 903.923.2071

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ast Texas Baptist University was blessed this Fall semester with its highest enrollment in over a decade.

The Fall 2016 enrollment saw 1,456 students studying at ETBU, 148 students ahead of Fall 2015. This semester marks the third highest enrollment in institutional history.

With an 11 percent increase in the student population and an overall retention rate of 72 percent, a growth of four percent over Fall 2015, ETBU remains committed to providing a transformative, Christ-centered educational experience as God draws more students to be a part of what He is doing at ETBU. “When growth happens in any institution, it is easy to assume it is healthy growth, but some growth is not sustainable or may be a mirage. Our goal is to keep growing in a healthy way,” ETBU Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Thomas Sanders said. “This year at ETBU, our Kingdom expansion has come from a balance of new initiatives and programs as well as a campus-wide focus on retention, which is truly the only way to sustain momentum toward graduation.”

Enrollment growth was fueled with new academic programs, increased sports opportunities, and a greater return of upperclassmen students. “We made needed improvements to our recruitment operation and opened new markets,” President J. Blair Blackburn explained. “With the dedication of our hard-working staff and faculty, we were blessed to retain more returning students than in recent years. And, Dr. Sanders deserves much credit for leading our retention efforts.” Dr. Blackburn shared, “Yet, we know that God was faithful to us. He provided an abundance of many new and returning students. We are grateful for answered prayers for the Lord’s provision.”

According to the recruitment team, a few of the most influential adjustments they made included utilizing social media and text messaging for contacting prospective students, enhancing the campus visit program, expanding recruitment activities, and making the enrollment process a more relational experience.

“Students are not just a number for us, they are individuals

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with unique stories, some have such personal journeys of struggle and aspiration. Many of these students are first generation college students and have hope for God’s plan for their futures,” ETBU Vice President for Enrollment and Administrative Affairs Kevin Caffey explained. “We made it the role of our admissions counselors to prayerfully guide new students through each step of the admissions process from application to acceptance to matriculation. We want to show them how they can prepare for God’s calling on their lives here at East Texas Baptist. Our goal is for each student to understand and desire to be in a community dedicated to Christian scholarship, fellowship, and formation.”

Although ETBU is adjusting to new challenges, the firm foundation of its education remains unchanged. The over 100 year-old scholarly Christian community is devoted to seeing students succeed academically and spiritually. “At ETBU, we believe what we are doing here is eternally significant, because it is based in our shared calling to serve Christ through equipping students for leadership in this community and the community beyond,” Dr. Sanders stated about ETBU’s commitment to Christ. “With the addition of new programs, we are better able to equip students for this service and therefore make eternal investments in the lives of people for generations.”

ETBU expanded its degree programs with a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management, Master of Science in Kinesiology, and Master of College and University Leadership this year, which brings the number of graduate programs to seven, the highest in University history. To provide for students whose schedules and lifestyles require greater flexibility, ETBU also reinstated its bachelor’s degree completion program for adults, added an online MBA, and expanded online course offerings.

“Many of these new academic programs will be offered in a hybrid format that is designed for flexibility with students’ personal and professional lives,” Director of Graduate Admissions Den Murley

said. “Some classes will even meet on Saturdays throughout the semesters, and the remainder of the teaching will be supplemented with online instruction.”

The new master’s degree programs fueled a 63% growth in graduate students this past year. These program expansions will help sustain current growth and invite new students to join the ETBU campus community.

“Students are not just a number for us, they are individuals with unique stories, some who have such personal journeys of struggle and aspiration.”

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KEVIN CAFFEY VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE AFFAIRS

The University increased student athletic opportunities and extracurricular programs as well.

They raised the number of student athletes for their 14 NCAA Division III Sports from 400 participants to 500 and launched six new club sports to promote student involvement.

“I am excited to see the continued expansion of our programs,” President Blackburn remarked.

“These degrees along with others under development will enable us to meet current and future market demands. When my journey at ETBU began, I shared with our trustees that we would seek to grow our enrollment with the creation of new degree programs and differing methods of delivery. I appreciate our faculty, staff, and trustees for believing and supporting that vision.”

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STE P P ING

FORWARD IN FAITH

ETBU trusts in God’s provision and makes plans to accomodate current and future Tigers

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s the University moves forward with its vision for increasing the student population, administrative leaders are making plans to accommodate continued growth. On-campus housing options are expanding and being renovated for the numbers of students wanting to live on campus and be a part of a Christian residential community experience.

The University’s current campus housing offerings are at capacity. For some of the campus residences, ETBU has invested in the renewal of these facilities to bring them back online for student residency. To address the unmet need of student housing, ETBU has developed a new residential community for upperclassmen and graduate students on the north end of campus, called University Park Row Houses.

Construction began in September on two 14,000 square foot attached row house buildings with the planned opening in Summer 2017.

The University Park Row Houses feature 12 three bedroom and three bath units and eight one bedroom and one bath units with modern amenities that provide our students with a quality living and learning environment.

“With the increase in enrollment and the growing desire of students to live on campus, University Park will not only meet the immediate need for more on-campus housing options but will also enhance the educational experience for campus residents,” Vice President for Student Affairs Heather Hadlock said. “Residing oncampus allows students to live and grow in Christian community. Living on-campus gives students the opportunity to enhance learning through study groups in the student residences, expand relationships through residential and campus activities, and invest in personal and spiritual growth. I am excited about the future of ETBU as the Lord allows enrollment growth, the

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building of new facilities, and enhancement of existing facilities.”

In addressing these pressing needs for the student housing, ETBU is striving to make physical improvements and progressively working to enhance the neighborhood where the University resides. What started as a small project to help one disadvantaged family has developed into the vision for how more families could be positively impacted by East Texas Baptist.

This vision of ETBU student volunteer service through home rehabilitation and new home construction has been established as the Neighborhood Renewal Initiative, where students contribute their time in restoring homes in disrepair and building new affordable housing. With a heart for improving neighborhoods in Marshall by rehabilitating homes in need of repair and in building quality, affordable housing for low- to middle-income families, ETBU believes that University Park will serve as catalyst for city renewal. By investing in ETBU’s own neighborhood with improved campus housing and a beautiful Classical architectural model, ETBU is planting seeds for neighborhood revitalization and economic development within the city, in one of the community’s oldest neighborhoods.

Top: ETBU begins construction on the new University Park Row House complex located on Van Zandt Drive. Middle: University soccer players enjoy their newly renovated Tiger Den. ETBU renovated seven locker rooms in Dean Healthplex this Fall. Bottom Middle: Featured rooms from the boys’ and girls’ sides of Centennial Hall are on display.

Bottom: Sophomore Rileigh Welch spends time reading in newly refurbished Lineberry Hall. Opposite Page: Students write Scriptures and pray over the framed walls of the University Park Row Houses.

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UNIVERSITY PARK East Texas Baptist University By investing in our own neighborhood with improved campus housing and a beautiful, Classical architectural model, ETBU is planting seeds for neighborhood revitalization and economic development within the community. We believe that University Park is a catalyst for this renewal in the city of Marshall.

> Dr. J. Blair Blackburn

President

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ver 100 years ago, God created the framework for Christian education on Van Zandt Hill. East Texas Baptist University was built on the foundation of God’s Word, and still today, Christ Jesus remains as the Chief

Cornerstone of the institution. ETBU students’ lives have been transformed by the Christ-centered education received on the Hill. God has been faithful to ETBU and continues to work through our students, faculty, and staff. While we are thankful for the progress of the past, we know there is more work ahead to move the University forward. We are committed to following the direction of God as the architect and builder of ETBU. We look forward to the future God has planned for ETBU.

To be able to experience a new housing development is amazing. I’m

We have a cultural mandate to shape our students intellectually, spiritually, socially, and physically...a holistic education, which equips and challenges ETBU students to shape society and culture for the glory of the Lord. God has created a beautiful tapestry of students from all walks of life, united in spirit and purpose

ready to live with

in our Christian community. The beauty of ETBU is often described by its scenic

my friends in

setting atop the Hill amidst the pine, oak, and myrtle with magnificent Classical

University Park. Bringing people together is what can create bonds for a lifetime.

> Joe Soto

Sophomore Marketing Major I am really excited for the addition of Row Houses...part of what makes ETBU special is the sense of family and community that comes with living on campus.

> Lexi Pyle

Senior Marketing Major 10 Hilltop Fall 2016

architecture. Winston Churchill stated, “We shape our buildings, and our buildings shape us.” Buildings matter to a university campus, for through the walls of a Christian college, students’ lives are built for Kingdom purpose. We ask that you prayerfully consider stepping forward in faith with us as we build a new home for our ETBU students through the University Park Row Houses.

As God draws more students to ETBU, University Park Row Houses will meet the increased demand for student housing. The construction of the University Park development will set a new standard of excellence in campus student residences, featuring spacious living accommodations, contemporary interior design, and modern amenities.

We need the support of ETBU alumni and friends to provide additional campus housing for our students. Each gift, large and small, will help ETBU move forward.

ROW HOUSES is stepping forward in faith.

Naming Opportunities

Lead Naming Opportunity

University Park Residential Development

Naming Opportunities University Park Hall (2) University Park Pond University Park Plaza University Park Trail Individual Row House University Park Gazebo University Park Arbor Outdoor Sitting Area University Park Lamp Posts University Park Trees Donor Wall Plaque

$500,000 $300,000 $100,000 $100,000 $75,000 $25,000 $20,000 $20,000 $10,000 $5,000 $2,500 $1,000 and up

For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. Hebrews 11:10 Hilltop Fall 2016 11

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group of girls sit nestled around a coffee table reading God’s Word, sharing their lives, and lifting each other up in prayer. Despite their demanding schedules, 60 female students are making time to fellowship with one another on a weekly basis through ETBU Women’s Ministry.

This ministry is being led by ETBU Women’s Ministry Coordinator Jennifer Curran.

“I am passionate about helping girls learn how to read their Bibles,” Jennifer shared. “John Piper says, ‘Wimpy women have wimpy theology,’ and I believe that. We have to be proactive about what the Bible says, and I want to teach girls how to dig in and study their Bibles.”

This semester Jennifer is leading a Bible study out of her home on Monday nights and shepherding a team of small group leaders. These leaders disciple an additional six to eight girls on a weekly basis through another ministry, Titus Women.

“The hope is for these girls to experience life together and encourage one another’s faith journey,” Jennifer said. “My heart is for girls to know how to disciple each other and to equip them to love people well through some of life’s hardest moments.”

According to sophomore Rileigh Welch their Bible study and prayer meetings, “have been incredible.” She added, “ETBU’s Women’s Ministry for me has been an uplifting experience where a group of girls with flaws and baggage come together to praise Jesus for adopting us as His children despite our fallen nature. All I want with my life is to glorify my Maker, and now I have a group of women, who share in that same goal.”

This time of community and discipleship has not only been beneficial for the students, but the leaders as well.

According to ETBU staff member and Titus Women group leader Jacqueline Ramos (‘12), this

ministry has been a way to share her experiences with the next generation.

“My group of girls have become a little family,” Jacqueline said. “The Lord didn’t just suggest that we make disciples. He commanded it. This is what we are made to do, to live in fellowship with God and with others. It’s been so rewarding to witness these girls begin to see the importance of community through our time together.”

“My heart is for girls to know how to disciple each other and to equip them to love people well through some of life’s hardest moments.”

JENNIFER CURRAN WOMEN’S MINISTRY COORDINATOR ETBU has placed an emphasis on discipling its students to go out and change the world for Christ.

“This ministry has been the biggest blessing,” ETBU staff member Lynlea Hansen (‘15) said. “It’s amazing to know that the Lord can use me to impact other women for His glory.”

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On October 21-22, East Texas Baptist University celebrated Homecoming and the 100th anniversary of Marshall Hall.

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Golden Blazers

Dr. Roger Chapman (‘43) Dr. John (‘67) and Alice Hatch (‘70) Dr. Rutledge McClaran (‘61) Dr. Wallace Watkins (‘63)

Golden Lightkeepers Esther Ando (‘46) Charles Snyder (‘69) Earl Taylor (‘61) Roddy Stinson (‘61)

J. Wesley Smith Achievement Award

Dr. Bob (‘16) and Gayle Riley (‘16)

W.T. Tardy Service Award

Judge Richard and Christina Anderson

Alumni Achievement Award Dr. David Ritsema (‘00)

Young Alumnus Award LaDarius Carter (‘10)

ETBU “Unsung Hero” Award Karen Wiley (‘82)

Blue and Gold Award Sam Baxter

The first moment I stood under the arch on Grove Street, I knew ETBU was where the Lord wanted me to be. This Hill is special.

Sandi Coates (‘66)

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Homecoming 2016 marks the 100th year since the completion of Marshall Hall. On this Founders Day, we reflect upon the legacy of Marshall Hall, and how our lives have been shaped in and around this distinctive campus landmark.

President J. Blair Blackburn

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I am so thankful for the opportunity to be Homecoming Queen at ETBU, because it allows me to be a role model for our female students. This school means so much to me and has equipped me to share Christ’s love with everyone I come in contact with.

Senior Arlette Henderson

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ETBU celebrates the 100th anniversary of Marshall Hall and the cornerstone time capsule during Homecoming 2016 In February 1916, Reverend W.T. Tardy, pastor of First Baptist Church of Marshall and the other founders of the College of Marshall placed a

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copper box behind the cornerstone on the northeast corner of Marshall Hall, the College’s first building. The founding fathers with support from local townspeople celebrated the completion of the institution’s inaugural building with a parade and ceremony. They placed a time capsule behind the cornerstone laid by the Freemasons. Inside the box, the founders put that day’s copy of the Marshall News Messenger, Baptist Standard, schematics of the building, commemorative coins, letters from community organizations, and other artifacts of the College in its foundational days.

From the beginning, the College of Marshall valued Christian education, and with generosity from the community, Marshall Hall was built to ensure that vision would last. The original building was home to traditional classrooms, but also included a modern gymnasium in the basement, library, and places for clubs to meet. “The people who developed ETBU didn’t just want to build a university that would focus on traditional education,” Provost Thomas Sanders said at the Homecoming 2016 Founders Day Faith of Our Fathers event. “They were so committed to the holistic development of the students, they created a modern gymnasium in the bottom of this building. Every day I watch students come and go out of this building, and there is no gymnasium in the basement anymore, but this building still stands for holistic Christ-centered education. Its beauty, its structural integrity has stood the test of time.”

One hundred years after Marshall Hall’s completion, ETBU sophomore Jonah Boaz learned about the time capsule secured behind the building’s cornerstone.

“My friends and I were curious about the history of our school, and we went searching for information,” Jonah shared. “We walked into an office and saw a framed aerial photo of East Texas Baptist College. In the photo, you can clearly see a maze garden with masonic symbols next to Marshall

Hall, which led me to believe the Masons may have had a connection in the founding of our University.” Jonah contacted a representative of the Masonic Lodge #22 in Marshall to help him piece together the history of Marshall Hall. “Once I was able to speak with a gentleman, he told me all about the ceremony, the parade they held, and that they placed something behind the cornerstone,” Jonah relayed. “I knew I had to find a way to figure out what was inside the time capsule.”

Jonah contacted President Blackburn to share with him about his cornerstone capsule discovery. Because the time capsule was placed exactly 100 years since the building’s completion, Dr. Blackburn decided to celebrate the historic building’s anniversary by opening the time capsule and displaying the contents during Homecoming on October 22, Founders Day. Dr. Blackburn asked the University’s vice presidents to select new items to be placed with the original capsule contents behind the cornerstone to be opened a century later in 2116.

“I hope when they take out our time capsule in 2116, they see that we aren’t as different as they might think,” Jonah said. “We are a school that provides academic and spiritual formation, and I hope in 100 years they have taken our foundation in Christ and built upon it to reach even more students.”

Dr. Sanders commented in his Founders Day remarks, “When Dr. Blackburn pulled the back side of that wall off and removed the box, we had an opportunity to look at our Ebenezers. In the Old Testament, Samuel talked about an Ebenezer as a rock of remembrance. We have the opportunity to look today at the rocks of remembrance from that day when they finished the work of Marshall Hall and began the work of creating a college for this community and beyond.”

The 100th anniversary of Marshall Hall provided the opportunity to examine ETBU’s past and reflect upon the College of Marshall founders’ and community’s vision for Christian higher education. Placing the new cornerstone capsule afforded today’s ETBU to write another chapter in the story of the University and its first building with a renewed commitment to carry forth Christ-centered education for next the 100 years. As Dr. Sanders shared, “Things we build usually don’t last. The only things that really last are the things that God builds.” And so it is with Marshall Hall, built to last.

Scan this QR Code with a QR Code Reader on your smart phone to see Jonah’s story.

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ETBU Sports Highlights

Tiger Pom joins ETBU Cheer to take the Spirit teams to the next level

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hen fans paid a visit to Ornelas Stadium this fall, they noticed a new addition to the sidelines. Along with Tiger Cheer, ETBU debuted a new dance team, Tiger Pom, coached by ETBU alumna and Director of Student Activities Madison Kauffman (‘13 and ‘15).

“Without a dedicated University dance team, we could tell that girls on campus were eager for a way to continue using their dance talents for the Lord,” Kauffman said. “I have heard incredible feedback from students, and I am so excited to see how Tiger Pom continues to grow.”

Pom is a style of dance which includes pom techniques, sharp movements and synchronization with a mixture of jazz, precision, and hip-hop styles. The 10-member team performed at home football games this season and will be featured at Tiger Basketball games during the Spring semester.

“We all come from different dance backgrounds, but we each have something unique to bring to the team,” junior Emily Shaver said. “I can’t wait to come back and see how the team grows and evolves in the years to come.”

Tiger Pom has given girls another avenue to make lasting friendships and get connected on campus.

“Through this team, I have been able to meet other dancers, who love the Lord and love to have fun with one another,” sophomore Carrie Sparks said. “My hope is that Tiger Pom represents a Christcentered, loving team, which encourages support for ETBU.” The seasoned Tiger Cheer squad is also aiming to take their program to the next level of competition cheer. New Head Coach Farrah Dunaway has returned to ETBU and has plans for the team to cheer competitively on the national level.

“I am fortunate to have been called home to ETBU,” Dunaway, who first coached Tiger Cheer at ETBU from 2002-2005, said. “Winning competition is great, but being a cheerleader is a platform to serve. I don’t want our girls to take that for granted.”

ETBU’s Spirit program is dedicated to serving our community. Both teams have volunteered their time at fall festivals, community parades, local elementary schools, and nonprofit organizations this semester.

“I hope that our team is known in the community for being role models for young girls, and as godly women, who will speak up for the cause of Christ and lend a helping hand,” junior Hannah McGowin said.

“We are held to a higher standard, because we are ambassadors for the University and followers of Christ.”

Both squads are looking to expand next year. Tryouts for the 2017-2018 Tiger Cheer and Tiger Pom are set for April 2017. Contact Madison Kauffman or Farrah Dunaway for more information.

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Fall 2016 has been a busy and exciting semester for the ETBU Tiger student athletes in the classroom, competition, team discipleship, and community. At ETBU, each athletic team conducts weekly discipleship and Bible studies, where coaches and teammates spend time in prayer, share testimonies, and study the Word of God. In addition, each team is involved in serving and engaging others in the local community, which includes volunteering at local elementary schools, serving as Salvation Army bell ringers, assisting with the Marshall Boys and Girls Club, packaging and wrapping boxes for Operation Christmas Child, and remodeling homes through the Neighborhood Renewal Initiative. The ETBU Baseball team traveled to Baton Rouge over Fall Break to assist with flood relief. In December, the Tiger Softball team participated in the first international sports mission trip of the new ETBU Tiger Athletic Mission Experience, as they traveled to Costa Rica for two games and a week of ministry and service.

Football

The Tiger Football team began the year with a program best 5-0 start and were ranked nationally throughout the season. They reached 15th in the nation in the AFCA National Poll and were consistently in the top 25 weekly on D3football.com. ETBU received national attention for having the top offense in NCAA Division III and the youngest head coach in NCAA Football, Scotty Walden.

Coach Walden drew the eyes of the national sports spotlight with features in a Vice Sports article, National Public Radio interview, and an article on HeroSportsNews.

Several players earned awards throughout the season as well. Dru Smith was named the ASC Offensive Player

of the Week three times, while Jourdan McNeill and Zack Biles each received the award. Single game and season records were broken. Smith broke three single game records in a 64-62 win over Louisiana College on October 29 as ETBU retained the treasured Claw in the Battle of the Border Claw. Richard Johnson broke a single season school record of 13 receiving touchdowns. McNeill set a new ETBU career rushing record of 32 touchdowns. The Tigers finished the season with a 7-3 record, which is the fifth winning season in program history. ETBU also achieved back-to-back winning seasons for the second time in program history.

Women’s Soccer

New Head Coach Erik Solberg coached the Women’s Soccer Team to the American Southwest Conference Tournament in his first season. It was the fifth time in the past six seasons that ETBU has made the tournament. ETBU finished at 6-8-4 overall and was the No. 6 seed in the ASC Tournament.

ETBU posted six shutouts with five coming at ETBU’s Cornish Field. Erin Miller, Alexis Smith, and Heather Brady all led ETBU with four goals this season. ETBU fell to University of Texas-Tyler in the ASC Tournament quarterfinals, 4-1, to end their season.

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Men’s Soccer

New Head Coach Chris Crawford led ETBU Men’s Soccer to nine wins and nine losses this season, which is the most wins for Tiger Men’s Soccer since 2005.

ETBU went 5-4 at home on Cornish Field. Seniors David Jackson and Joel Ramirez scored seven and six goals, respectively, to close out their college careers.

Bryant Botello helped post six of the seven shutouts for ETBU in the net this year. Five players earned AllASC for their play this season: Travis Atkinson, Jordan Burke, David Jackson, Joel Ramirez, and Daniel Rutter.

Tennis

Women’s Tennis had their best American Southwest Conference Fall Individual Tournament appearance in program history, finishing with six individual championships. Kate Bramlett, Tiffany Stankiewicz, Mullika Seekhieo, and Elisa Kendall all earned singles tournament titles. The doubles team of Bramlett and Ashley Schneck and the team of Kelli Cawthon and Stankiewicz came away with doubles titles for ETBU. These players then played well at the ITA Southwest Regional Tournament, winning several first and second round matches.

The Men’s Tennis team also posted their best American Southwest Conference Individual results.

John Herr finished in third place in singles. Three individuals finished in fourth place in their flights: Dillon Deatherage, Ty Tarver, and Ross Houk. The doubles team of Deatherage and Ryan Pierce took a fourth place finish. The doubles team of Herr and Tarver finished in third place in flight three. Tiger players also earned wins at the ITA Southwest Regional Tournament, which were the first for the program.

Cross Country

Head Coach Natalie Bach-Prather led a youthful team in both the Women’s and Men’s Cross Country teams in 2016. Both teams finished fifth in the American Southwest Conference Championships, with Shelby Spencer-Taylor finishing seventh overall and earning a spot on the All-ASC first team. With her seventh place finish, Spencer-Taylor qualified to run at the NCAA Regional Meet. She was also named the ASC Sportsmanship Athlete of the Year and was twice named the ASC runner of the week. Freshman Dontavium Bass led the men’s team at the ASC Championships, finishing in 31st place.

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ETBU Sports Highlights Volleyball

New Head Coach Keely Peterson led ETBU to the American Southwest Conference Tournament as the No. 3 seed from the East Division. ETBU finished the regular season 10-12 and 5-7 in ASC East play, which included a sweep of East Texas regional rival University of Texas-Tyler. Mallory Sanders was named to her fourth All-ASC Volleyball team and received the ASC East Division Sportsmanship Athlete of the Year. Kayla Green, Morgan Rupp, and Britni Mosher were each selected to the All-ASC second team. Sanders and Rupp will finish their careers in the program’s top 10 in multiple categories including kills, blocks, digs, and service aces.

Bass Fishing

In their inaugural season, ETBU Tiger Bass already has one boat at the FLW National Championship in May 2017, as Jacob Keith and Brett Clark qualified for the event on Wheeler Lake by finishing seventh out of a field of 134 boats. Throughout the semester several other Tiger angler partners finished in the top 10: Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Arkansas Collegiate Series—8th Place, Mason Beatty and Cody Greer, 10th Place, Chad Poulsen and Jared Penton; Bull Shoals, Arkansas—2nd Place, Chad Poulsen and Jared Penton, 10th Place, Jacob Keith and Brett Clark; Lake Ouachita, Arkansas—7th Place, Jacob Keith and Brett Clark; Lake Dardanelle Arkansas Collegiate Championship—5th Place, Jacob Keith and Brett Clark, 7th Place, Chad Poulsen and Brett Clark. Poulsen also took the top angler award at the Hawg Herder Tournament on Lake Sam Rayburn.

Rugby

This 2016 year marks the inaugural sports season for ETBU Tiger Rugby. ETBU Men’s Rugby team currently holds a 5-1 record. The team is led by Devin Cummings and Tim Weatherly and has beaten numerous ranked opponents including Stephen F. Austin State University, LeTourneau University, and St. Edwards University. ETBU Women’s Rugby team has a record of 2-5-2 and has defeated both Texas State University and SFA. Cummings said, “Both teams are learning more about the game of rugby and how it’s played. They are getting better with each match and looking to make a push toward conference playoffs.”

Ice Hockey

East Texas Baptist University Ice Hockey team is making great strides in its first season. In their inaugural game, over 1,100 fans were in attendance to support the new team on George’s Pond at Hirsch Coliseum, the Texas Tigers’ home ice. Under the leadership of Ryan Erwin, Jason Campbell, and Carson Combs, the Tigers finished their Fall schedule 8-7, and will play nine games in the Spring semester. The Tigers claimed victories over Texas State, LSU, Dallas Baptist, and the University of North Texas.

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REGISTER NOW!

Hosted by President J. Blair Blackburn and First Lady Michelle Blackburn Contact the University Advancement Office for more information and a detailed itinerary: travelingtigers@etbu.edu âœŻ 903.923.2071

Splendors of Italy Tour May 19-27, 2017

$3,720 (double room including airfare from Dallas) $4,784 (single room including airfare from Dallas)

Deposit Deadline Balance Due January 2, 2017 ($400) March 10, 2017 Hilltop

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Faculty Spotlight

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Traci Ledford

Chair & Associate Professor Department of Theatre Arts B.F.A. Directing and Design Baylor University Teacher Certification Texas A & M Commerce M.F.A. Directing Baylor University

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fter reading Little Women, a young Traci Ledford remembers walking through the house pretending to be Meg. When her mother saw auditions for the play at Garland’s Children’s Theatre a few weeks later, she knew Traci needed to audition. At the age of nine, Traci landed her first role as Beth, and she hasn’t looked back.

“I’ve been continuously working in theatre ever since,” Traci shared.

“My junior year of high school I was the female lead in Dracula, and I remember thinking, I love acting so much. I don’t think I can ever walk away from theatre. I couldn’t imagine leaving the camaraderie, sense of family, and belonging you have in every show; that feeling of doing something so much bigger than yourself.”

In the Fall of 2009 she began promoting this same family atmosphere at ETBU, and since then, the ETBU Theatre Department has been thriving under her leadership. Building relationships with her students is one of her favorite parts of working in a closeknit liberal arts college community.

“Each student is a soul to us, not just a number,” Ledford said. “We know our students well. We know their skill-set. We know where they need to be challenged.”

Behind the scenes the students are rotated into each crew: scenic, electrics, sound, props, costuming, hair and makeup, special effects, stage management, publicity, and box office. These opportunities allow students to grow their résumés, which in return makes them more marketable after graduation.

The Theatre Department focuses on giving students not only the

skills they need to be successful and versatile in their field, but also translates theatre as their mission field.

“Many people are interested in going to foreign countries or working in poverty stricken areas, but in the field of theatre, there exists a group of artists, many of whom are unchurched or have poor opinions of Christianity, and our students will have daily opportunities to minister in their chosen workplace,” Ledford explained.

She teaches her students to reach out to others and “love them where they are.” She encourages them “to listen, serve, and help them. Then when they wonder why you are the way you are—tell them.”

According to Ledford, the Department pursues ministry opportunities through the shows chosen for production season.

They look for strong literature with redemptive qualities, an educational point, and/or a cautionary tale.

Even if the show itself does not exemplify Christian morals, it should bring “light to hardships or start a dialogue” in order to challenge the audience’s point of view about matters of faith.

The ETBU Theatre Department is far from a one-man show. “We want to involve everyone,” she insisted, “the person making the prop is just as important as the person saying the lines on stage. We are artists and creators in the image of the Great Creator. So, even if you are ‘just’ cutting wood today, or ‘just’ painting—there is no ‘just’ to it.

Everything is essential. So when you make that stitch, do it right and do it for God.”

SAVE THE DATE

May 31-June 2, 2017

MARSHALL, TEXAS FEATURING: Larnelle Harris, Al Fike, Dr. Shellie O’Neal, The Foto Sisters, Dr. Sam Dennis, and Dr. Paul Powell

REGISTRATION: Contact the Office of University Advancement hilltopu@etbu.edu 903.923.2068 etbu.edu/sac17

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ETBU Theatre showcases a range of productions during the Fall season

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he ETBU Theatre Department’s 2016-2017 Season is in full swing. The company has performed two diverse productions in the Fall semester and have two more scheduled for the Spring.

The Department’s first show was a high-energy version of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

The cast started rehearsals on August 29 and played five sold out shows from September 29 to October 2. The ensemble spent four weeks developing over 20 characters, memorized thousands of lines during 25 rehearsals, and spent over 1,300 hours on behind-the-scenes elements.

“Our goal as a cast was to make Shakespeare accessible to the audience,” sophomore Payton Weinzapfel said. “We wanted to act and execute it in a way that anyone could understand and enjoy. I think the audience participation was a creative way to do that.”

One of the most unique aspects of Director and ETBU Associate Professor John Dement’s adaption of the show

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is that eight actors play 22 characters. Dement wanted to make sure that the audience had fun watching Shakespeare, which led to many of his directorial decisions. According to cast members, all the quick changes and playing different characters brought the company together quickly. The many moving parts and minute details to make the production run smoothly called upon both cast and crew to be dependent on one another.

“Whether it is the collaborative nature of a performance or the constant emphasis on producing a polished product, theatre provides wonderful experiences for our students in preparation for larger life lessons that loom beyond graduation,” Theatre Department Chair Traci Ledford said. “Additionally, many plays connect the human experience across generations, ask the difficult questions, or highlight a pressing issue. The stage is where a dialogue between

two actors can lead to a dialogue between two strangers after the show. If we are effective, then that is what should happen.”

The Department’s second play of the season, These Shining Lives by Melanie Marnich, provided the cast and crew the opportunity to address the emotional side of being on stage.

“The most challenging part of the show was the subject matter itself,” said senior Trace Craver, who played the male lead, Tom Donohue. “This show was based on true events, and I really wanted to portray the gravity of the story. It was hard at times to stay level-headed, while also keeping up the emotional energy of the production.”

Painting watch faces for mass production, the Radium Girls, Catherine Donohue (junior Kellie Papas), Frances O’Connoll (sophomore Payton Weinzapfel), Charlotte Purcell (junior Laramie Smith), and Pearl Payne (junior Rebekah Still), worked for the Radium Dial Company. The dial painters regularly ingested radium, as it was a common practice to use their mouths to create a fine point on their brushes. This daily and long-term exposure to radium caused the

workers to develop jaw necrosis, varying diseases, and marring cancers, most of which are tied to a premature death. The women in this heart-wrenching story pursued legal action to a landmark Supreme Court decision that, still today, holds employers responsible for the safety of their employees.

Led by Director Samantha Pettigrew (‘15) the company told the story of Donohue and her coworkers on stage November 17-20.

“This play seeks to humanize a tragic anecdote from American history,” Pettigrew said. “As Catherine narrates her story, she emphasizes certain details, the people she loves and their relationships. Her concern is centered on how these events affect those who stood with her through the court proceedings.” Pettigrew added, “I hope that we did her story justice.”

ETBU’s Theatre Department has two more productions in the Spring 2017 semester: Fiddler on the Roof on February 23-26 and Bus Stop on April 20-23. For tickets, please visit the box office at www.etbu.edu or call 903.923.2292.

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Servant Feature

BATTLE-TESTED BUSINESSMAN

INVESTS IN THE FUTURE

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urrounded by enough accolades and “The Lord had His hand on me all the awards to fill ten lifetimes, he humbly time, developing and preparing me for what tells the story of how God prepared him I was to one day do for Him,” he shared. and explains why he gives to ETBU. He feels “Well into my teenage years, I attended that the University he has given significantly Sunday School, every Sunday. Neither Mom to in the past 5 years has recognized him nor Dad went to church, except on very enough. He just wants to inspire others to special occasions, but they would not hear give. Investing in the future generations of of me missing a single Sunday. I never quite ETBU students, this generous ETBC Tiger comprehended the why of this. I learned was led by the Lord to establish gift annuities, about Jesus early in life, but didn’t really get which provide endowed funds for student it until much, much later.” scholarships. “After all, it is not about me, it is He “gets it” now and inspires others God’s money anyway,” he explains. And, that around him to “get it” as well. He is how he lives now. sponsors a yearly trip to Israel for others He hasn’t always felt that way or lived to experience the Holy Land and provides that way. A relationship with God changed academic scholarships to average students him, blessing him with a heart for serving and with promise. He knows it is not always giving.

This man from humble beginnings, grew up in the piney woods of East Texas riding his Hawthorne Flyer bicycle hundreds of miles and shooting his Red Ryder BB gun in true Christmas Story fashion. He learned to run and problem solve in those woods, and he openly admits that for most of his life he ran from God. He ran by playing soldiers with his friends in grade school.

ANONYMOUS ETBU DONOR Then, he ran in the jungles of Vietnam.

He served three tours of active duty and the “A” students that make the biggest won over 25 medals in the Army with little contributions to their community or to the more than a scratch. He saw many comrades Kingdom. die in action, but God protected him. He had “I was not a tough kid, although I had many near death experiences during his time my share of fights on the school grounds. in military service. According to a running I wasn’t big enough to be mean. I was count he kept, his team was bombarded by just average in about every way. I was an enemy mortars and rockets 216 days of the average student, an average athlete.

10 months he spent in Dau Thieng, Vietnam.

I participated in everything, but never

“After all, it is not about me, it is God’s money anyway.”

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truly excelled in anything growing up. But, I had an abundance of friends and very few enemies. And, I seldom had any money in my pocket.”

This average guy, who failed freshman English at ETBC in the late 1940’s, grew up during the Great Depression and World War II, served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and eventually started, managed, and sold multiple, multi-million dollar companies.

He remains active in his community and in national politics. He went from having a radio as his main method of communication to being on the forefront of the digital age in the 21st century. He is anything but average.

He looks for opportunities to give where his personal and professional passions intersect. He is passionate about learning and living for Christ, so ETBU is the perfect marriage of these particular passions.

“You can’t do anything in life without being able to learn. That is what college is all about—learning to learn. If a person has the ability to learn, there is no limit to what they can achieve. On the flip side, if a person’s eternity is in jeopardy, and they are not reaching out to others to fulfill the Great Commission, then, as Christians, we are falling short.”

He wants to convey to potential donors that there are very few income sources for Christian institutions like East Texas Baptist.

He believes that if individuals do not step out on faith and give, then ETBU will never see new residence halls, athletic facilities, and the continued growth needed to prepare the Christian servant leaders of the future.

He believes that God has His hand on ETBU and has great plans for the University where he started his undergraduate journey.

“Everything good that happened to me through these years was permitted, if not orchestrated, by God.” Serving inspires this battle-tested businessman to invest in ETBU’s future with his estate planning. To learn more about how you can provide support for ETBU through planned giving, contact the Advancement Office at 903.923.2071.

RULES FOR LIFE Businessman’s lifetime of experience converted to wisdom

■■ As a leader, you have to begin with a vision.

■■ When building a team, choose your players first for chemistry and then for talent.

■■ Don’t be afraid to take risks.

■■ Stay focused.

■■ As the boss, you need to do three essential things: set the agenda, pick the key players, and control the money.

■■ Leave yourself the option to take either fork at every junction in life.

■■ Tolerate honest mistakes.

■■ Have the confidence to surround yourself with people smarter than you, and then have the good sense to give them guidance and not orders so they can use their creativity to excel.

■■ Never pass up the opportunity to reward a subordinate.

■■ Be careful not to get advice confused with opinions.

■■ The boss does not have the luxury to be moody.

■■ Honor a handshake, even if the other person doesn’t.

■■ Don’t seek revenge! While plotting revenge can make you feel good, getting it is never all that sweet.

■■ The person who controls access to the boss has great power.

■■ Always strive to be the leader. Don’t avoid responsibility—seek it!

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Donor Feature

A LASTING LEGACY

The impact of the Edwards’ generosity can been seen all over ETBU’s campus. From student scholarships to the lead gift for ETBU’s School of Nursing, Welby and Davida Edwards instilled a passion for giving that continues with their son, Dr. D.M. Edwards.

“If my parents could see ETBU today, they would be very pleased with where the institution is and where it’s heading,” Dr. Edwards shared. “They would be thrilled with the enrollment this all and to hear Dr. Blackburn’s vision for the campus.”

D.M. Edwards grew up in Tyler, Texas, and began his college education in his hometown at Tyler Junior College (TJC). There, he took part in their music and drama program, where he scored starring roles in several musicals. After graduating cum laude from TJC, Edwards continued his education at Baylor University and went on to receive a Bachelor of Business Administration.

Although Edwards never attended ETBU, he sees the work the University is doing in the lives of its students.

“There is a real need for quality, Christian education,” Dr. Edwards said. “When students leave ETBU, they have received an academic and spiritual education where they can be successful in the world.”

The Edwards’ involvement with ETBU started when his mother, Davida, was the area supervisor for the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in the early 1950’s. When she moved to Tyler, the president of TJC had a vision to start a nursing program. The president asked

his mother to help find nursing students in the 14-county region where she had been the area supervisor for the TEA. She recruited the first class of TJC nursing students in 1952. After seeing TJC’s success, the Edwards helped support what became the Texas Eastern School of Nursing, and is now the University of Texas

None of us can do everything, but each of us can do something, and together it all adds up.

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at Tyler School of Nursing.

In 1989, Dr. Edwards’ parents continued with this vision for addressing healthcare needs in East Texas and gave the lead gift for the ETBU nursing program. The nursing program’s inaugural class began at East Texas Baptist in 1992.

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“Nursing is such a critical area,” Edwards shared. “When people come into the world, a nurse is there to welcome them, and then again when they leave this world, a nurse is there to help them make the transition.”

When his mother passed away in 1999, Edwards set up an endowed scholarship for nursing students in her memory.

Recently, Dr. Edwards gave an additional $190,000 to increase this endowment, expand future facilities for the nursing school, and meet other needs of the University. Edwards’ inspiration for giving comes from his parents and one of his mentors, Judge Abner McCall, President of Baylor University from 1961 to 1981.

“Judge McCall used to say ‘None of us can do everything, but each of us can do something, and together it all adds up.’

I’ve tried to live my life by that philosophy,” Edwards said.

Dr. Edwards’ service goes beyond just his generosity to the institution. He has served on the ETBU Board of Trustees for nearly 20 years and will begin another term of service in January 2017. He was also the project chair for the building of the pedestrian corridor that now stretches from the Ornelas Student Center to the center of campus through the Grove and over to the new University Park. Edwards was recognized for his faithful service and generosity to ETBU with the awarding of an honorary Doctor of Humanities by ETBU in May 2016.

“Donors have a unique perspective when it comes to giving to a specific need or building project,” Dr. Edwards said. “It’s a pleasure to see what manifests from a single gift, whether that is the programs that are developed, the students that are helped, or the buildings that are built.”

Dr. Edwards has a heart for giving and a love for East Texas. As a tall Texan, Dr. Edwards is also known for his impressive boot collection. Edwards gives tours on Mondays and Wednesdays through his exotic boot collection in his Tyler home. An avid collector, Edwards has been acquiring boots from all over the world since 1977.

“My collection started when I inherited a pair of boots from my maternal grandfather,” Edwards shared. “They are a yellow pair with green stitching and white trim along the uppers that he bought back in the 1940’s. I remember seeing my grandfather wearing these boots and how much he enjoyed them. I was delighted to have the opportunity to inherit them and the rest is history.”

Today, he possesses over 150 pairs of exotic boots with skins ranging from ostrich to eel to shark.

Dr. Edwards’ passions may span from exotic boots to Christcentered education, but his willingness to share does not waver.

His giving spirit has enabled scores of ETBU students to realize their dream and fulfill their calling to be skillfully trained servanthearted nurses. Through the benevolence of the Edwards family and the continuing legacy of giving through Dr. D.M. Edwards, the ETBU School of Nursing envisions its planned move to new educational facilities at ETBU’s downtown campus in the Marshall Grand.

Dr. Edwards currently resides and manages his business, Edwards Investments, in Tyler.

Top: Dr. D.M. Edwards speaks during a dedication ceremony for the University’s central pedestrian walk. Middle: President J. Blair Blackburn, First Lady Michelle Blackburn, and Interim

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Vice President for Advancement Susan Rossman receive a gift from Dr. Edwards on October 28, 2016. Bottom: Edwards displays one of the many exotic boots in his one-of-a kind collection.

Over the last century, East Texas Baptist University has educated generations of Christian servant leaders. This year we have over 1,450 students studying at ETBU, volunteering in our community, and going into the world on mission.

Help us continue to transform the lives of current and future ETBU students through a contribution to the Blue & Gold Fund.

East Texas Baptist University takes pride in being called to provide a quality, Christcentered education to students. With the help of alumni and friends of the University, ETBU provides scholarships to students based on Christian leadership, academic achievement, and financial need. Please consider making a contribution to general scholarships or an endowment to ensure ETBU is accessible and affordable for everyone who feels called to the Hill.

With your assistance, ETBU will continue to attract quality student athletes and offer them a Christ-centered experience where discipleship is 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 current and future generations of ETBU students.

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Alumni Feature A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

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arbara Huffman has seen quite a bit of change since she first stepped on ETBC’s campus in 1955. Scarborough Chapel is no longer a chapel and Merle Bruce Hall, where she lived her first two years of college, has since been replaced by the Ornelas Student Center. Despite all of these changes, her love for ETBU and Marshall has remained constant.

“It is hard for me to separate myself from ETBU or from Marshall,” Barbara shared. “It’s my life. This is home for me.”

Barbara first came to ETBC 61 years ago from Nederland, Texas. Looking for a close-knit community, she fell in love with the family atmosphere ETBC had to offer after being recruited by Gordon Bell, the grandfather of long-time professor Dr. Rutledge McClaran.

“I came from a very small community and my family trusted ETBC to look after me, and it very quickly became a family unit,” Barbara said. “I had a former pastor who was in Marshall, and he and his wife became like second parents to me. It was a special time in my life.”

In recent years, Barbara has volunteered at the University twice a week answering phones, thanking donors, greeting visitors, sending birthday cards to alumni, and packaging gifts to Cub Club and Tiger Club children.

“Serving is my passion,” Barbara stated. “Where would the world be without volunteers? Without commitment, loyalty, and dedication, a community cannot exist. Even if you can’t do anything else, you can smile at people and make them feel warm and welcome.”

In addition to her service, Barbara and her husband, Bill, have made generous donations to ETBU. Huffman Activities Area, the central court of the Ornelas Student Center, bares their name and is the hub of student life. She also coordinated the fundraising efforts for an endowed scholarship in honor of the Class of 1959.

“We do it because we love it,” Barbara said. “When I first started volunteering, I told new volunteers, ‘welcome to the adventure’ and it’s been exactly that.”

Before her time as a volunteer at ETBU, Barbara dedicated herself to her students as a fourth, fifth, and sixth grade teacher for Marshall Independent School District. Because of her devout service to ETBU, Barbara was recently presented with the 2016 inaugural Legacy Legend Award for her servant leadership and faithful support to the institution.

Barbara and Bill have resided in Marshall for 53 years and have two grown children, William (‘12) and Gaylin Huffman.

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Above: President J. Blair Blackburn presents Barbara Huffman (‘59) with the inaugural Legacy Legend Award. This honor is given to Legacy of 1912 Society members, who reflect the spirit of servant leadership through their sacrificial service to ETBU.

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Student Profile NEW BEGINNINGS

Over a year after her traumatic four-wheeler accident, Brooke Dahman reflects on God’s healing in her life

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he was all set to attend ETBU in the Fall God directed the hands of her therapists and of 2015. A little over a year ago, Brooke doctors on her road to recovery.

Dahman’s life was turned upside down.

“This was the beginning of a different way of Her road to ETBU wasn’t easy, but it was a new life,” she shared. “I was a child in so many ways beginning that paved the way for God’s love in her again. I had to learn to get dressed, feed myself, life and all those God places in her path. and walk.”

The summer after her senior year in high school, According to Brooke, her struggles through now ETBU sophomore Brooke Dahman’s life therapy taught her to be totally dependent on God. changed dramatically. It was her birthday. It was her She knows that He directed her path, and used the last day on vacation. It was an eighteenth birthday small and large victories to prepare her to be the she will never forget. She remembers waking up to leader she is now at ETBU. her cousin, Blake, singing Happy Birthday.

“Brooke’s injury has greatly impacted her “Adulthood had just begun,” Brooke shared. spiritual walk and her relationships with other “We loaded up two four-wheelers and started on what I insisted on being an adventure. The Missouri breeze blew through my hair as we burned rubber for hours. The gasoline smell was thick. We were having the time of our lives. Then, boom.”

The next thing Brooke recalls is opening her bloodshot eyes to an unfamiliar room.

Her boyfriend, ETBU BROOKE DAHMAN, ’19 junior Austin Grant leaned over and kissed her on the forehead. Then, students. And, she would be the first to tell you she heard her mother’s voice. that,” Director of Residence Life Lauren Moore Over the next few weeks, Brooke faced the reflected. “Brooke sees her injury as a platform to solace of an ICU hospital room, being on a share the love of Christ and the Gospel with people. ventilator, and the status of her injuries: five facial The Lord is using it to draw her and others closer to fractures, a broken left wrist, and a complete spinal Him.” cord injury leaving her paralyzed from the waist After an outpouring of love and support from down. her chosen University and months of rehabilitation, “Eighteen years of life went by, and suddenly I Brooke started her journey at ETBU in Spring became an adult,” Brooke stated.

2016. She quickly stepped in and assumed roles From ICU in Missouri to Baylor Hospital in Dallas of responsibility and leadership as a Freshman then to rehabilitation, she endured her therapy Senator in Student Government, Admissions Office sessions with tears and persistence. She knows student worker, Tiger Camp leader, and Resident

“I chose joy over sorrow, encouragement over discouraging thoughts, and prayer over separation from God.”

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Assistant. She also serves as a life group leader at New Beginnings Baptist Church in Longview.

“Brooke genuinely loves people and loves the Lord,” Director of Transfer Admissions Rob Williams said. “She believes in what the Lord is doing here on the Hill and will stop at nothing to have her part in it. Her unmatched perseverance through any obstacle is one of the most inspiring shows of strength that I have ever seen.”

ETBU has enriched her life with opportunities to serve, and she has enriched the lives of everyone she meets. Brooke has not let her injury slow down her chances for ministry. If anything, she allows her injury to bring others to the Lord and aid her in reaching out.

“Anyone can see what joy and peace look like

through all circumstances when meeting Brooke,” Admissions Credentials Coordinator Barbara Taylor explained. “Everyone seeks to find hope through life’s struggles, and her sweet smile is a glimpse of that every day when she comes through Marshall Hall.”

Brooke has refused to let her disability separate her from the love and purpose that God has intended for her life.

“Purpose is a calling; we are called to have purpose,” Brooke declared. “In that uncomfortable hospital bed, I chose joy over sorrow, encouragement over discouraging thoughts, and prayer over separation from God. At times, I was tempted to just give up. But now, I run in my heart after God like I never have before.”

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Ministry Spotlight

CASSELS CREATES CONNECTIONS She stops walking in line to get a glimpse and wave from the ETBU Spirit teams as they pass her in the hall. The little girl smiles from ear to ear and clasps her hands to her chest when the Cheer and Tiger Pom girls wave in her direction.

“That moment,” Tiger Cheer Coach Farrah Dunaway recalls, “reminded the girls of the power they have to make a difference in the lives of the next generation.”

East Texas Baptist University Tiger Pom and Tiger Cheer teams traveled to Whitehouse ISD’s Cain Elementary School in October to take part in a schoolwide celebration of the “No Excuses Program.”

As part of this program, each classroom adopts,

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represents, and learns about a college all year.

Terri Cassels’ kindergarten class selected ETBU this year.

“We are instilling in our students, from Pre-K to 5th grade, the importance of going to college,” Cassels said. “We want them to understand and believe that college can be a part of their future.”

Cassels, a 1996 ETBU alumna, and her class wear the ETBU school colors of blue and gold every Monday. Cassels’ students have learned an ETBU cheer. The classroom is decorated with Tiger school spirit, and they have a “Tiger Hut” that is used as a reading reward area. And on special occasions, student volunteers from the universities come to inspire their supporters.

“I loved seeing the kids’ excited faces when we walked into their classroom. It really opened our eyes that we have a huge impact on the little ones; they genuinely look up to us,” Cheerleader Jaci Telles said. “They made us feel like celebrities. Making their day, made my day.”

The ETBU Spirit teams led cheers and encouraged Cassels’ students in their classroom, then they accompanied the elementary students to a celebration in the school’s cafeteria with an array of other universities represented. Tiger Pom performed, while ETBU’s Toby the Tiger and Tiger Cheer led the crowd in cheers.

“It was an honor to represent ETBU and be a positive influence on the children at Cain Elementary,” Cheerleader Natile Orr said.

Cassels expressed gratitude for giving her students real-life connections to the students at ETBU. “The ministry of these girls made me proud to be an alumna of East Texas Baptist,” Cassels said. “We appreciate the willingness of Tiger Cheer and Pom to join us. We loved every minute!”

PREPARING STUDENTS WITH TOOLS TO PURSUE THEIR MINISTRY CALLING Calling Conference encourages students to change the world ETBU held its second-annual Calling Conference in an effort to inspire and prepare graduates to be Christian servant leaders in their lives and through their professions. This conference provided opportunities for students to ask questions and share in the knowledge of leaders in ministry professions.

“The concept of calling has often been surrounded by mystery as if some extraordinary transcendent existential experience is required to be a part of the work of God’s Kingdom,” stated Dr. John Harris, Dean of ETBU School of Christian Studies. To help discern, ETBU’s Calling Conference was designed to help students understand the practicality of their calling, to move them from their feelings of ambiguity to a place of certainty, and to help them understand that God can and does work through them to redeem a lost and fallen world. “Students were challenged to see themselves not as passive recipients of God’s choosing, but as active exercisers of all the gifts God has given them,” Harris remarked. “More than ever before in recent generations, there is a great need for called and committed ministers, who envision being part of a worldwide movement of God’s power.”

The conference began with a chapel service aimed at helping all students realize the opportunity to pursue God’s calling in their lives, no matter their major or future career. The keynote speaker Dr. Sam Dennis, Senior Pastor of Parkway Hills Baptist Church in Plano, advised students of their role in changing the world around them, their call to share the love of God, and the truth of the Gospel.

God can use “crooked sticks to make straight lines.”

DR. SAM DENNIS PARKWAY HILLS BAPTIST CHURCH, PLANO

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“God is really beginning to move in this school,” Dennis observed, “and if God chooses to change the world from Marshall, Texas, He can do that.” Throughout the chapel message, Dennis reminded students of their opportunity to fulfill their calling to Christ by sharing the Gospel beginning right where now as students at East Texas Baptist University.

For students considering vocational church-related ministry, the conference continued with a luncheon, panel discussion, and breakout sessions to help students clarify God’s calling on their lives. Dr. Jeremy Greer, Assistant Professor of Religion notes that “While students may clearly sense [God’s calling], they often find that the exact direction initially remains shrouded. We believe God can use the Calling Conference to clear the fog for many students, so that they can begin to move from sensing God’s call to pursuing it.”

Through conversations with local ministers at lunch, students received practical advice from experienced ministry leaders.

“In our conversations with students, we focused on how God uses experience and education in the process of calling. Each of the ministry leaders at the Calling Conference definitely could model and speak to both of those areas in their guidance to students,” said Dr. Thomas Sanders, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and experienced children and youth ministry leader.

“I learned more about being in children’s ministry that I can begin to apply now,” junior Rebecca Wolff shared. “The conference provided me with a handful of helpful tools and connections for when I need knowledge or support.”

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Contact the Admissions Office at 903.923.2000 or 800.804.ETBU or visit www.etbu.edu/refer for a student referral form.

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Accent on Alumni UPDATES

1960s Don (’67) and Jody Anthis (attd.

‘64-’67) just celebrated 50 years of marriage. Don is semi-retired but still a busy CPA in his own practice. Don served as a Trustee for ETBU for 25 years. They have three children and four grandsons. Don and Judy can be reached at danthis@anthis.com and jkanthis@att.net.

1990s Amy Downey (’92) was the first female to graduate with a Ph.D. in theology from Liberty University. Dr. Downey graduated with her Ph.D. in theology/ apologetics in May 2016.

WEDDINGS AND ANNIVERSARIES 1990s Tanya Baker (’92) married Bubba Brown on August 26, 2016. They reside in Marshall.

Everett (’57), Trustee Emeritus of ETBU. The Everetts celebrated 62 years of marriage before her passing.

Jesse Freeman Ayers (’57) passed away on October 30, 2016. He completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in August 1957. Later he served as Director of Student Aid and Placement at ETBU. 1960s Louise Taylor passed away on July 28, 2016. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Rev. Earl S. Taylor (’61).

1970s Dorothy (Thomas) Quada (’76) passed away on September 19, 2016.

James Bryant (’95) a third year Assistant Principal of Canadian High School, was selected to represent the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals as a Region 16 Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year. James is now eligible to compete for the state title.

2010s April Ruhl (’11) married Derek Cottrell on June 11, 2016. The couple resides in Bossier City, Louisiana, where Derek is in the United States Air Force.

Betty Sue Stevens (‘78-03) passed away on October 16, 2016. Betty was a beloved staff member in Advancement at East Texas Baptist College and East Texas Baptist University.

2000s Michael (’04) and Jessica (Smithson) Anthis (‘05) are teachers at Atascocita Middle School in Humble ISD. Michael is a history teacher and Jessica has been the theatre department director for ten years. Michael graduated in May with a master’s in counselor education.

They have two sons, Micah and Lincoln, and are active members of Northeast Baptist Church. They can be reached at micahelanthis@gmail.com and Jessica. anthis@hunble.k12.tx.us.

DEATHS 1930s Arlene (Black) Todd, a 1936 graduate of the College of Marshall, passed away on September 5, 2016, her 100th birthday. After graduating from the College of Marshall, she went on to obtain a degree in religious studies from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Arlene’s faith, which sustained her throughout her long and productive life, remained strong to the end.

1980s Sharon Sperier Warner (attd ’89) passed away on October 16, 2016.

Kathryn Grace Mears, daughter of Mitch and Keri (Christopher) Mears (’08), shows off her new outfit as a proud new member of the ETBU Cub Club.

2010s Kirk (’12) and Erin (Jones) Palmer (’11) reside in Rockdale, Texas, and work for Rockdale ISD. Kirk teaches algebra and is an offensive coach for football and assistant coach for softball.

Erin teaches sixth grade, coaches junior high girls basketball, and serves as the varsity softball coach.

44

William Huffman Jr. (‘12) was recently named Marshall Police Department’s MVP of the week.

His parents are Bill & Barbara Hemmenway Huffman. Barbara is a 1959 graduate of ETBC.

Hilltop

Fall 2016

1940s Mary Lou (Posey) Lock (attd. ‘47) passed away on January 19, 2016.

She is survived by her husband of over 68 years, Dr. Curtis Lock and their two children.

Rufus Ronald “Bud” Poole passed away on July 27, 2016. He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Dorothy (Page) Poole (’48).

Lottie “Candy” (Faulkner) Grainger passed away on October 6, 2016. She was a 1941 attendee of the College of Marshall, who later became an educator for Marshall Independent School District.

1950s Anita (Scott) Everett (’57) passed away on July 16, 2016. She is survived by her husband Dr. William “Bill”

1990s Dr. Frank Lower (‘91-06) passed away on August 16, 2016. He is survived by his wife. Dr. Lower was a Professor of Communication at ETBU and served as the Chairman of the Communication Department.

2000s Terry Fyffe (‘05-‘12) passed away on August 19, 2016. He is survived by his wife Lisa, son Nick, daughter Kristen Sweeney (’08) and her husband Matt (’09). Terry was a staff member in Institutional Technology at ETBU from 2005-2012.

2010s Jackie Shirley-Champion (’11) passed away on July 18, 2016. Jackie’s family expressed that “Jackie lived her life in HD, while the rest of us live in regular TV.” She will be greatly missed by her ETBU friends.

Ammellia “Mia” (Loucka) Pruett (’10) passed away on November 11, 2016.

Mia worked for Sodexo Dining Services at ETBU since graduating in 2010. She leaves behind her husband, Caleb, and a host of ETBU friends whose lives she touched during her time on the Hill.

STAY CONNECTED WITH US New jobs, weddings, births, accomplishments, updates— whatever your news, share it with your ETBU Family.

Send to:

Alumni Relations East Texas Baptist University One Tiger Drive Marshall, TX 75670

Email:

alumni@etbu.edu

Update online: etbu.edu/alumniupdate

Allison Peteet

Assistant Vice President for Advancement and DirectorHilltop of Alumni Relations Fall 2016 45

ETBU 2017 SPORTS SCHEDULES Men’s Basketball 2016-2017 GAME SCHEDULE

Women’s Basketball 2016-2017 GAME SCHEDULE

DATE TIME

OPPONENT

LOCATION

DATE TIME

OPPONENT

LOCATION

NOV 15 NOV 19 NOV 20 NOV 23 DEC 1 DEC 3 DEC 8 DEC 10 DEC 17 DEC 29 DEC 30 JAN 5 JAN 7 JAN 11 JAN 14 JAN 19 JAN 21 JAN 26 JAN 28 FEB 2 FEB 4 FEB 6 FEB 9 FEB 11 FEB 16

Centenary College Huntingdon College Rhodes/Wilmington Concordia University Hardin-Simmons University McMurry University Sul Ross State University Howard Payne University Concordia University Texas Lutheran University Schreiner University Rust University Lousiana College University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Belhaven University University of Texas at Dallas University of the Ozarks LeTourneau University University of Texas at Tyler University of Texas at Tyler LeTourneau University Louisiana College University of the Ozarks University of Texas at Dallas Belhaven University

ETBU Memphis, TN Memphis, TN ETBU Abilene, TX Abilene, TX ETBU ETBU Austin, TX Longview, TX Longview, TX ETBU ETBU Belton, TX ETBU Dallas, TX Clarksville, AR Longview, TX Tyler, TX ETBU ETBU Pineville, LA ETBU ETBU Jackson, MS

NOV 15 NOV 23 NOV 26 NOV 27 DEC 1 DEC 3 DEC 8 DEC 10 DEC 17 DEC 29 DEC 30 JAN 5 JAN 7 JAN 11 JAN 14 JAN 19 JAN 21 JAN 26 JAN 28 FEB 2 FEB 4 FEB 6 FEB 9 FEB 11 FEB 16

Centenary College Austin College Southwestern University Texas Lutheran University Hardin-Simmons University McMurry University Sul Ross State University Howard Payne University Concordia University Texas Lutheran University Schreiner University Rust College Lousiana College University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Belhaven University University of Texas at Dallas University of the Ozarks LeTourneau University University of Texas at Tyler University of Texas at Tyler LeTourneau University Louisiana College University of the Ozarks University of Texas at Dallas Belhaven University

ETBU Sherman, TX Georgetown, TX Georgetown, TX Abilene, TX Abilene, TX ETBU ETBU Austin, TX Longview, TX Longview, TX ETBU ETBU Belton, TX ETBU Dallas, TX Clarksville, AR Longview, TX Tyler, TX ETBU ETBU Pineville, LA ETBU ETBU Jackson, MS

7:30pm 1:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 3:00pm 1:30pm 1:30pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 7:30pm 7:30pm 3:00pm 7:30pm

Men’s Tennis 2016-2017 GAME SCHEDULE

5:30pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 2:00pm 5:30pm 1:00pm 5:30pm 1:00pm 1:00pm 11:00am 11:00am 5:30pm 1:00pm 5:30pm 1:00pm 5:30pm 1:00pm 5:30pm 1:00pm 5:30pm 1:00pm 5:30pm 5:30pm 1:00pm 5:30pm

Women’s Tennis 2016-2017 GAME SCHEDULE

DATE TIME

OPPONENT

LOCATION

DATE TIME

OPPONENT

LOCATION

MAR 13-16 JAN 28 9:00am JAN 28 2:00pm FEB 11 2:00pm FEB 17 2:00pm FEB 18 1:00pm MAR 3 3:00pm MAR 4 10:00am MAR 11 10:00am MAR 23 2:00pm MAR 31 3:00pm APR 1 10:00am APR 1 2:00pm APR 7 4:00pm APR 8 12:00pm APR 22 10:00am

Spring Tennis Fest Hardin-Simmons University McMurry University University of Texas at Dallas Millsaps College Austin College Schreiner University Concordia University Belhaven University Univ. of Wisconson-Eau Claire Louisiana College Southwestern University Trinity University LeTourneau University University of Texas at Tyler University of the Ozarks

Hilton Head, SC Abilene, TX Abilene, TX Dallas, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Jackson, MS ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Longview, TX Tyler, TX Clarksville, AR

MAR 13-16 JAN 28 9:00am JAN 28 2:00pm FEB 11 2:00pm FEB 17 2:00pm FEB 18 1:00pm MAR 3 3:00pm MAR 4 10:00am MAR 11 10:00am MAR 23 2:00pm MAR 31 3:00pm APR 1 10:00am APR 1 2:00pm APR 7 4:00pm APR 8 12:00pm APR 22 10:00am

Spring Tennis Fest Hardin-Simmons University McMurry University University of Texas at Dallas Millsaps College Austin College Schreiner University Concordia University Belhaven University Univ. of Wisconson-Eau Claire Louisiana College Southwestern University Trinity University LeTourneau University University of Texas at Tyler University of the Ozarks

Hilton Head, SC Abilene, TX Abilene, TX Dallas, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Jackson, MS ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Longview, TX Tyler, TX Clarksville, AR

Hockey 2016-2017 GAME SCHEDULE DATE TIME

OPPONENT

LOCATION

JAN 7 JAN 8 JAN 23 JAN 27 JAN 28 FEB 3 FEB 4 FEB 17 FEB 18

Texas State University Texas State University Southern Methodist University Louisiana State University Louisiana State University Southern Methodist University Southern Methodist University Tulane University Tulane University

San Antonio, TX San Antonio, TX Dallas, TX Shreveport, LA Shreveport, LA Shreveport, LA Shreveport, LA Shreveport, LA Shreveport, LA

9:45pm 3:15pm 7:00pm 10:00pm 1:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 10:00pm 1:00pm

Home games in bold

46

Hilltop

Fall 2016

Baseball 2017 GAME SCHEDULE DATE TIME

OPPONENT

LOCATION

FEB 3 FEB 4 FEB 5 FEB 10 FEB 11 FEB 11 FEB 14 FEB 24 FEB 25 FEB 25 FEB 28 FEB 28 MAR 3 MAR 4 MAR 4 MAR 10 MAR 11 MAR 11 MAR 17 MAR 18 MAR 18 MAR 24 MAR 25 MAR 25 MAR 28 MAR 31 APR 1 APR 1 APR 7 APR 8 APR 8 APR 13 APR 14 APR 14 APR 21 APR 22 APR 22 APR 28 APR 29 APR 29

Schreiner University Schreiner University Schreiner University Centenary College Centenary College Centenary College Jarvis Christian College LeTourneau University LeTourneau University LeTourneau University University of Dallas University of Dallas Southwestern University Southwestern University Southwestern University University of Mary Hardin-Baylor University of Mary Hardin-Baylor University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Louisiana College Louisiana College Louisiana College Sul Ross State University Sul Ross State University Sul Ross State University Jarvis Christian College University of the Ozarks University of the Ozarks University of the Ozarks McMurry University McMurry University McMurry University Concordia University Concordia University Concordia University Howard Payne University Howard Payne University Howard Payne University University of Texas at Tyler University of Texas at Tyler University of Texas at Tyler

Kerrville, TX Kerrville, TX Kerrville, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Longview, TX Longview, TX Longview, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Belton, TX Belton, TX Belton, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Hawkins, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Austin, TX Austin, TX Austin, TX Brownwood, TX Brownwood, TX Brownwood, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU

2:00pm 12:00pm 3:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 6:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 6:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 2:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm 2:00pm 12:00pm 3:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 4:00pm

Softball 2017 GAME SCHEDULE DATE TIME

OPPONENT

FEB 4 FEB 4 FEB 10 FEB 10 FEB 11 FEB 17 FEB 18 FEB 18 FEB 24 FEB 24 FEB 25 MAR 3 MAR 3 MAR 4 MAR 7 MAR 8 MAR 8 MAR 11 MAR 11 MAR 17 MAR 18 MAR 18 MAR 24 MAR 25 MAR 25 MAR 28 MAR 28 MAR 31 MAR 31 APR 1 APR 7 APR 8 APR 8 APR 13 APR 13 APR 14 APR 21 APR 21 APR 22

Pacific University Pacific University Belhaven University Belhaven University Belhaven University LeTourneau University LeTourneau University LeTourneau University University of Mary Hardin-Baylor University of Mary Hardin-Baylor University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Howard Payne University Howard Payne University Howard Payne University University of Texas at Tyler University of Texas at Tyler University of Texas at Tyler DePauw University DePauw University University of Texas at Dallas University of Texas at Dallas University of Texas at Dallas Concordia University Concordia University Concordia University Birmingham-Southern University Birmingham-Southern University University of the Ozarks University of the Ozarks University of the Ozarks Louisiana College Louisiana College Louisiana College Sul Ross State University Sul Ross State University Sul Ross State University Hardin-Simmons University Hardin-Simmons University Hardin-Simmons University

12:00pm 2:00pm 1:00pm 3:00pm 12:00pm 6:00pm 12:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 5:00pm 12:00pm 4:00pm 6:00pm 12:00pm 6:00pm 5:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 3:00pm 6:00pm 12:00pm 2:00pm 5:00pm 12:00pm 2:00pm 4:00pm 6:00pm 1:00pm 3:00pm 12:00pm 6:00pm 12:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 5:00pm 11:00am 4:00pm 6:00pm 12:00pm

LOCATION ETBU ETBU Jackson, MS Jackson, MS Jackson, MS ETBU ETBU ETBU Belton, TX Belton, TX Belton, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Richardson, TX Richardson, TX Richardson, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU ETBU Clarksville, AR Clarksville, AR Clarksville, AR ETBU ETBU ETBU Alpine, TX Alpine, TX Alpine, TX ETBU ETBU ETBU

Men’s and Women’s Track and Field 2017 SCHEDULE DATE JAN 27-28 FEB 9-10 FEB 17 MAR 3 MAR 10-11 MAR 29-30 MAR 31 APR 7-8 APR 13 APR 21-22 MAY 26-27

OPPONENT University of Houston

Cowboy Stadium Indoor Meet

University of Texas at Tyler

University of Texas at Tyler Outdoor Season Opener Indoor Track Nationals

Texas Relays

Mississippi College Midnight Invitiational Stephen F. Austin State University Invitational

McMurry Invitational

ASC Conference Championship at Hardin-Simmons University NCAA Division III Outdoor Track Nationals

LOCATION Houston,TX Frisco, TX Tyler, TX Bullard, TX Naperville, IL Austin, TX Clinton, MS Nacogdoches, TX Abilene, TX Abilene, TX Geneva, OH

Hilltop

Fall 2016

47

Non-Profit Org US Postage

PAID

One Tiger Drive Marshall, TX 75670

Global Mailing Svc

INK JET ADDRESSEE STREET ADDRESS LINE 1 STREET ADDRESS LINE 2 CITY, STATE ZIP

FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN, TO US A SON IS GIVEN, AND THE GOVERNMENT WILL BE ON HIS SHOULDERS,

HE WILLFall BE CALLED 48AND Hilltop 2016 WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, MIGHTY GOD, EVERLASTING FATHER, PRINCE OF PEACE. ISAIAH 9:6