December 7, 2024
On Saturday, December 7, East Texas Baptist University celebrated the achievements of 202 graduates at its commencement ceremonies in Baker Chapel of the Rogers Spiritual Life Center. Guided by the University's President, Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, the ceremony marked the conferral of degrees to 140 undergraduate and 62 graduate students. The event was filled with Scripture readings, songs of praise and worship, heartfelt prayers, and blessings bestowed upon the graduates.
The December 2024 graduating class marked the largest fall class in University history.
"This milestone commencement is a result of the combined efforts of faculty and staff focusing on ETBU's mission of graduating Christian servant leaders so they can follow their calling to God and humanity," Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Thomas Sanders said.
U.S. Senator Joe Manchin from West Virginia delivered the commencement address during the morning ceremony. He has represented West Virginia in the United States Senate since November 15, 2010. Senator Manchin grew up in a coal mining community, learning the values of family, fairness, and hard work from his immigrant grandparents, who inspired his commitment to public service.
As a former small business owner, state legislator, and six-term Governor of West Virginia, Senator Manchin prioritizes "retail government," focusing on constituent engagement and bipartisan solutions. His legislative efforts emphasize job creation, fiscal responsibility, and a balanced energy policy that integrates environmental and economic needs. Senator Manchin chairs the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and serves on the Appropriations, Armed Services, and Veterans' Affairs Committees.
"It is an honor to have Joe Manchin, United States Senator for West Virginia, here with us today," President Blackburn said. "Thank you for serving your home state of West Virginia and our nation. Senator Manchin is respectfully regarded as an esteemed statesman among both political parties. Americans across our country, and those of us in Texas, are grateful for Senator Manchin and his leadership."
Senator Manchin urged graduates to embrace their calling and approach life with a spirit of unity and collaboration.
"There's no way in the world you can make it by yourself," Senator Manchin said. "I've never had anybody who worked for me; they worked with me. We all have to work together to make something happen. Success depends on the team moving in the same direction. Whether you're leading a team or contributing to one, always remember that it's not about tearing people down but building them up so they can rise and grow. That's how we create lasting impact."
In the afternoon ceremony, Dr. Karen O'Dell Bullock was awarded an honorary doctorate and delivered the keynote address. An esteemed scholar and educator, Dr. Bullock has taught at the undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels for over 30 years. A Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary graduate with M.Div. and Ph.D. degrees, she has held leadership roles at Southwestern, Dallas Baptist University, and B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary, where she recently retired but continues teaching and mentoring doctoral students.
Dr. Bullock serves as Executive Vice President of the Baptist Center for Global Concerns, addressing global inequities through leadership training, agricultural projects, and medical clinics. She is a passionate advocate for Christian heritage, missions, and justice, and also chairs the Baptist World Alliance Commission Council.
"We are what we read," Dr. Bullock stated while addressing the graduates. "We are shaped and influenced by the books we read. They prepare us not only for interesting conversations but also for facing the real challenges of life. As graduates of East Texas Baptist University, an institution grounded in Christian values, you've been immersed in God's Word. Its teachings are woven into the fabric of this campus, from the halls to the classrooms. These divine messages inspire us to grow in character, to deepen our faith, and to prioritize being over mere knowing or doing. You've been challenged to follow Christ while pursuing your academic goals. As you step into the world, remember that life won't always be easy. You may face hardships, trials, and setbacks. But God promises to strengthen you and sustain you."
Each semester, ETBU President Dr. Blackburn presents an award to a graduate who represents a Christian leader, scholar, and servant on campus and in the local community.
Hannah Hobson, a Bachelor of Arts graduate in Worship Studies, was honored with the President's Award for the Fall 2024 graduating class at East Texas Baptist University. A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Hannah achieved an exceptional academic record, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA throughout her time at ETBU.
Hannah, a gifted musician and devoted leader, has been a cornerstone of ETBU's Chapel Bands for the past three and a half years. Her campus involvement also includes marching band, pep band, symphonic band, pom, and theatre, showcasing her multifaceted talents. Hannah represented ETBU on the band and choir Global Study and Serve trip to Israel and earned a place in the College Band Directors National Association Intercollegiate Honor Band. Her outstanding achievements were further recognized with the Department of Music and Theatre Arts Academic Excellence Award.
Beyond campus, Hannah has faithfully served in ministry. She has completed practicum hours at First Methodist Church in Marshall and contributed to the worship ministry at First Methodist Church in Shreveport, where her father serves as music minister.
"The quality of Hannah's academic work is superior," Dr. Nathan Phillips, Chair of the Department of Music and Theatre Arts and Director of Bands, said. "She completes assignments thoroughly and often goes beyond the requirements in order to do her best work. As a musician, Hannah is one of the finest instrumentalists I've ever taught. She has superior technique and musicianship and elected to give two recitals that were not required for her degree. She treats everyone she meets with compassion and fairness. She goes out of her way to serve and encourage and gives of her time and energy."
Dr. Blackburn encouraged the graduates and reminded those in attendance of the University's Christ-centered mission.
"Today, we celebrate your academic achievements, spiritual growth, and answered callings to serve," Dr. Blackburn said. "As a Christ-centered university, ETBU has equipped you to become Christian servant leaders, ready to impact the world with the hope, love, and light of Jesus Christ. From this Hill and ETBU, we are sending you out as Kingdom leaders—educated, empowered, and emboldened to influence and impact people. May you carry the torch of faith and transform lives, for the glory of God."