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ETBU Celebrates 207 Graduates at Spring 2026 Commencement

East Texas Baptist University presented 207 graduates with degrees during its commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 9, in Baker Chapel of the Rogers Spiritual Life Center. During the ceremonies, 167 students received undergraduate degrees, 36 received master’s degrees, and four earned doctoral degrees from B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at East Texas Baptist University. The worship ceremony

featured Scripture readings, praise and worship through song, prayers, and blessings over the graduates.

“Throughout my time on campus, the Lord’s provision and goodness have been consistently revealed to me,” speech pathology major Avery Holland said. “Reflecting over the last couple of years, it’s evident that God knew His plan for me long before I knew. My path to ETBU and my journey while on The Hill is the work of the Lord. The opportunities I have been given, the faculty and staff who pour into me, the joy, and the growth within myself are a constant reminder of God’s love for me.”

Senior Girl Call Out

Camille Freeman of Henderson, Texas, was recognized on Wednesday, April 29, during East Texas Baptist University’s 79th annual Senior Girl Call Out. Selected by a faculty and staff vote, the senior student “called out” each year is distinguished for

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her exemplary Christian character, social consciousness, personal poise, academic achievement, and spiritual vision.

“It is an honor and privilege to be chosen as Senior Girl Call Out,” Freeman said.

“Attending ETBU has been the greatest season of my life. The Lord has used this university to teach me many things about Himself and the people around me. I will forever be impacted by the people, experiences, and the culture of ETBU.”

Academic Excellence Chapel

East Texas Baptist University celebrated the academic achievements of its students during the annual Honors Chapel awards ceremony held on Wednesday, April 22. The event recognized students for their dedication to scholarship, servant leadership, Christian character, and campus involvement. Students were honored for their induction into prestigious academic honor societies and received departmental

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Academic Excellence Awards selected by faculty members.

“At East Texas Baptist University faith and learning are intentionally woven together to prepare students for lives of purpose and service,” ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn said. “Rooted in biblical truth and academic excellence, ETBU challenges each generation to pursue their calling with integrity, perseverance, and a heart for others. Through this commitment, the University continues to equip servant leaders who impact their communities, their professions, and the world for the glory of God and the advancement of His Kingdom.”

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Members make a difference, every single month.

The Pillars of ETBU are East Texas Baptist University’s group of core, faithful, and committed monthly donors.

In the same way that the pillars provide strength and support to the various buildings on campus, members of the Pillars of ETBU bolster and fortify the Christ-

centered mission and on-going work of the University through monthly giving. Pillars can be found on numerous buildings across the ETBU campus, including Marshall Hall, Craig Hall, H.D. Bruce Hall, Feagin Hall, Centennial Hall, Murphy Science, Jarrett Library, and the Bennett Student Commons. The Pillars serve as a visualization of this close-knit group of supporters, buttressing the Core Commitments of ETBU.

Will you prayerfully consider becoming a Pillar of ETBU?

Become a Pillar of ETBU

Shantel (Nobles) Patt ('07)

Mrs. Shantel (Nobles) Patt (’07) came to the Hill and completed her Bachelor of Science in Education.

"I was drawn to ETBU because of its strong faith foundation and commitment to developing the whole person not just academically, but spiritually and personally. Knowing that my older brother had attended made it feel even more like home, and I wanted to be in an environment where my calling to serve, lead, and teach could

grow alongside my faith. ETBU felt like a place where I could be supported, challenged, and prepared to walk confidently in the purpose God had for my life."

ETBU in the News

Tigers Making Headlines

Tiger Baseball Crowned ASC Tournament Champs

ETBU captured the 2026 American Southwest Conference Baseball Championship, going undefeated in the tournament to earn the conference’s automatic berth to the NCAA Tournament. Read more.

ETBU Softball Wins Fourth Consecutive ASC Tournament Championship

ETBU claimed their fourth consecutive American Southwest Conference Softball Championship after going undefeated in tournament play, securing the conference’s automatic berth to the NCAA Tournament. Read more.

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.

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