ETBU Board Honors Dr. Blackbur n
The East Texas Baptist University Board of Trustees recently hosted the 10th Anniversary Presidential Gala, a special event celebrating a decade of faithful leadership by Dr. J. Blair Blackburn as President of ETBU. Held on Friday, April 4, at the Rogers Spiritual Life Center, the Gala brought together university leaders, alumni, faculty, staff, students, and community members to honor God’s work through Dr. Blackburn’s transformative leadership on the University. Through the generosity of sponsors and attendees, the event raised more than $400,000 in support of ETBU student scholarships, continuing the University’s mission to invest in Christ-centered education and student success.
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ETBU Ser ve Day
More than 300 East Texas Baptist University students recently spread out across Harrison County to serve their neighbors during ETBU's annual Serve Day, a campus-wide initiative focused on living out the University's Christ-centered mission through acts of service. In addition to painting a local church and assisting at a local food pantry, students helped prepare crafts and decorations for upcoming Vacation Bible Schools, assisted with a children’s art class, and cleaned and organized church facilities. These hands-on tasks allowed students to support ministries that directly impact local families and children.
“I am blown away by our students,” Dr. David Griffin, Dean of Spiritual Life, said. “We prepared for around 280 participants, but to see even more show up on a rainy Saturday morning speaks volumes about the heart of service within our Tiger Family."
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Hilltop Magazine | Special Edition
A Special Edition of Hilltop Magazine landed in mailboxes this week! If you are missing yours, please take a few seconds to update your mailing information here. In the meantime, you may view the entire publication online by clicking the link below
View Hilltop Magazine Online
Alumni Spotlight Sandy (Bailey) Willia mson (’77)
Mrs. Sandy (Bailey) Williamson (’77) completed a degree in Music Education from ETBC and is currently serving in ministry at an interim capacity alongside her husband, Carl Williamson (’76). The Williamsons have served in pastoral ministry for their entire 48 years of marriage, while Sandy also spent 45 years in public education working with at-risk students as a teacher, counselor, principal, and most recently a district administrator of the Cleveland Independent School District. Since her retirement, God has called her to speak to women’s groups and conduct online Bible studies.
"My time at East Texas Baptist prepared me for ministry. We were all given opportunities to serve in various capacities. We learned responsibility and
perseverance. As I directed one of the Saturday morning missions, I gained knowledge in working with volunteers and developed my love for at-risk kids. I am forever grateful for the lessons learned on the Hill, as well as the lifelong friendships I developed." Read More
Hilltop U | A One - Da y Retreat for Adults 55+
Hilltop University is a spiritual retreat for Adults 55+ hosted on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at East Texas Baptist University. Conference events include corporate worship, Bible studies, lunch, a matinee concert, and dessert fellowship. During your visit, enjoy the beautiful campus of ETBU! Individual pricing is $35 per person and includes lunch, concert tickets, and admission to all conference events. Groups of five or more qualify for the group rate of $25 per person. Make plans to join us on Tuesday, May 20, from 10 am - 4 pm. We'll see you then!
ETBU in the News
Tigers Making Headlines
Beach Reach
During spring break, a team of 22 students from East Texas Baptist University’s Baptist Student Ministry participated in Beach Reach, a ministry outreach in South Padre Island. Through service, prayer, and evangelism, the students provided free transportation, meals, and spiritual guidance to spring breakers visiting the island. Read more.
Teague School of Nursing Students Inducted Into International Honor Society
ETBU Teague School of Nursing students were recently inducted into the International Honor Society of Nursing, Sigma Theta Tau. These 14 Teague School of Nursing students join more than 135,000 active members across the globe who demonstrate academic excellence in the field of nursing.
ETBU Office of Advancement
Dr. Scott Bryant
Vice President for Advancement and Administrative Affairs
903.923.2069 | sbryant@etbu.edu
Scott McCurdy
Assistant Vice President for Advancement and Administrative Affairs
903.923.2830 | smccurdy@etbu.edu
Cari (Walker) Johnson (`94)
Director of Alumni Relations
903.923.2043 | cjohnson@etbu.edu
Chad Cox ('11) ('16)
Director of Career Counseling and Placement/Development Officer
903.223.2330 | ccox@etbu.edu
Keli Sparks
Gifts Coordinator
903.923.2071 | ksparks@etbu.edu