May 2, 2025
Bailee Kitchen of Clovis, Ca., was recognized on Wednesday, April 30, during East Texas Baptist University's 78th annual Senior Girl Call-Out. Selected by a faculty and staff vote, the senior student "called out" each year is distinguished for her exemplary Christian character, social consciousness, personal poise, academic achievement, and spiritual vision.
"Attending ETBU has impacted my personal life and education immensely," Kitchen said. "I have had professors who have pushed me to be the best student I can be in the classroom, and I feel prepared for my future endeavors and education goals. In my spiritual life, the events alongside the staff, faculty, and community have allowed my faith to grow in a way I never thought it would. The lasting impression of my time here will stand for the rest of my life; this was not just a season of education for me, but a season of growth, community, new understandings, and a transformative impact on my walk with Christ."
Kitchen, a Christian Ministry major, has poured into the East Texas Baptist University community through her extensive campus involvement. A member of the ETBU Beach Volleyball team, she also served as Vice President of Public Relations for the Student Government Association, Tiger Ambassador for the Office of Admissions, student worker in University Advancement, Thrive Peer Mentor, and Resident Assistant.
"Bailee is a dedicated student, athlete, and Christian," Thrive Coordinator and Assistant Professor for Teacher Education Dana Blackaby said. "Bailee is resilient in all she does and sets high standards for herself. She serves others with compassion and love. I'm thankful for her life and look forward to seeing her impact on the people and children she serves in the future."
During her time at ETBU, Kitchen has been recognized for both academic and spiritual leadership. She is a member of Theta Alpha Kappa, the national honor society for religious studies and theology, and has received academic honors through Pi Delta Theta for student-athletes. She was also awarded the Mr. and Mrs. John Allen Ware Scholarship. A member of Macedonia Baptist Church in Marshall, Texas, Kitchen helps lead the children's ministry and teaches a class for first through fourth graders. Following graduation, she will marry David Clair in June and continue serving at Macedonia while pursuing a Master of Divinity through B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at ETBU.
Thirty women participated in Senior Girl Call-Out alongside their "little sisters," underclassmen chosen by the seniors. During the ceremony, each senior girl passed onto her little sister the symbols of the University's ideals and traditions—the grace of the myrtle, the strength of the oak, and the ever-verdant life of the pine.
"Senior Girl Call-Out is ETBU's longest-standing tradition, now in its 78th year," Director of Student Life Laura Coursey said. "I often wonder if those who began this ceremony imagined the legacy it would create; more than 1,000 women have taken part, each leaving a unique mark on the University. This year, we are especially proud of Bailee Kitchen, who was selected as the 2025 Call-Out. Bailee's impact has been felt across campus, from Athletics to Student Engagement, Admissions, and Advancement. She has made a lasting impression on both her peers and the faculty and staff who have walked alongside her."
For the past 78 years, over 1,000 young women have taken part in this beloved tradition. Today, the University community continues to honor senior girls for their Christian character and academic excellence, upholding a long-standing tradition of recognition.