Campus celebrates 100 Years of Christian Education

By Casey Morris
Co-Editor

After a century of quality education and Christian leadership, East Texas Baptist University will celebrate its Centennial anniversary this school year. The events symbolize the growth of the College of Marshall into an institution impacting lives worldwide.

“The whole idea this year is to celebrate the rich heritage and past of ETBU, and to forge a springboard for the future,” said Vince Blankenship, vice president for enrollment managing and marketing.

Through the efforts of Rev. W.T. Tardy, the charter of the College of Marshall (COM) took effect on Oct. 22, 1912. Marshall Hall and two dormitories opened a year later. The first classes were held June 4, 1917.

Anticipating increases in enrollment after World War II, COM President Harvey Daniel Bruce expanded the institution’s scope to offer baccalaureate degrees. The COM officially became East Texas Baptist College in 1944.

Finally, after constructing a new student center, academic and administration buildings, and upper-classmen dorms, the Baptist General Convention conferred university status in 1982.

“The Centennial is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate God’s faithfulness to the university and to reflect on the many individuals who have served and sacrificed so that we may enjoy what we enjoy today,” said President Dub Oliver. “As we look back, we can’t help but have excitement about the future of ETBU and all that is possible here.”

A Centennial Countdown Party kicked off the festivities and welcomed students back for the new year. Held in the Woods Great Room in the Ornelas Student Center, the event provided free hot chocolate, coffee cake and music.

“I think that this was the perfect event to engage students with the Centennial year,” said senior Crystal Lopez. “It was a great way to include students in the celebration.”

Several events throughout the year refer to the university’s Centennial milestone. Monthly Alumni Fellowship dinners scheduled across the region will recognize graduates part of ETBU’s history, while a Centennial Celebration Choir Concert March 2 is set to share the achievement with the local community.

“The choir concert will mark the Centennial milestone in the life of our university,” said Tom Webster, dean of the school of fine arts. “After a 100 years our institution still remains strong, which is a very encouraging measure of success for any organization. We should be very proud.”

In April, a performance by the Jazz Band, a dramatic production of “Lend Me a Tenor” and a Symphonic Band Concert will further commemorate the Centennial.

The celebrations culminate this fall with a Centennial Gala Oct.20 where students and alumni can reconnect in a formal setting.