October 31, 2017
East Texas Baptist University acknowledged two students on Monday, October 30 for their outstanding service to the campus and community. Seniors Austin Damron of Lake Jackson and Harleigh Parrish of Huntington were awarded the Bob and Gayle Riley Servant Leadership Award during a special chapel service focused on servant leadership. Dr. Bob Riley, ETBU President Emeritus, and his wife, former First Lady Gayle Riley, presented the students with a replica of the "Divine Servant" statue, created by Max Greiner, that stands outside of the Ornelas Spiritual Life Center.
"It was an honor and privilege to serve the students, faculty, and staff of East Texas Baptist from 1992 to 2009. My wife and I have been encouraged to return to campus and see it continue to thrive and grow under the leadership of Dr. Blackburn," Dr. Riley shared. "I am convinced that ETBU will raise up men and women as servant leaders now and in future generations, who will make a difference as they serve in their careers for the glory of God."
The Bob and Gayle Riley Servant Leadership Award is given annually to two upperclassmen students who exemplify the characteristics of a Christian servant leader. Peers, faculty, and staff nominate students in recognition of their commitment to Christ's model of servanthood. The award was established under the leadership of Dr. Riley, who served as president of ETBU for 17 years before retiring in 2009, to promote the attitude and behavior of Christ-centered servant leaders among students at ETBU.
"I believe the best way to approach any leadership role, is to become a better follower first," Parrish expressed. "I recognize that Christians are called to serve out of the love, grace, and sacrifice. I am changed because of my experiences here and I believe I am meant to change the world by continuing to serve others as Christ has taught me to serve."
ETBU Chair of the Department of Communication Studies Cole Franklin announced Harleigh Parrish as the female award recipient. Parrish is a Speech Communication major, who has served in numerous roles during her time at ETBU including President of Lambda Pi Theta, Student Government Association (SGA) Senator, Resident Assistant, and a member of the Debate Team.
ETBU Professor of Communication Studies Dennis Robertson described Parrish as, "a great student, a humble servant, Christ-centered, gifted for service, and willing to go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that everyone is taken care of."
Austin Damron was introduced as the male awardee by ETBU Dean of the School of Christian Studies John L. Harris. Damron is a Religion major, who has been an active leader in several student organizations and events such as Welcome Week, Tiger Camp, Student Foundation, and Tupas. ETBU Dean of Students Blair Prevost noted that Austin, "demonstrates humility and grace toward others in his leadership roles. He seeks the best for his fellow students, while exhibiting a commitment to excellence."
"Christ is a servant and I want to be more like Him. I want to reflect Him in all I do," Damron said. "While at ETBU, I realized a call to serve as a youth pastor and have been prepared to do so. I believe that I will be able to apply all that I have learned serving here at ETBU to teach youth about the character of Christ, to serve with a higher purpose, to build unity, and to practice patience and adaptability."