November 7, 2025
East Texas Baptist University welcomed ETBU retirees, Legacy of 1912 Society members, and endowed scholarship donors to campus for the annual Legacy of 1912 Society Luncheon on Wednesday, November 5.
The Legacy of 1912 Society is comprised of alumni and friends who, through thoughtful estate planning and other forms of planned giving, ensure that resources will be available to support ETBU far into the future.
During the celebratory luncheon, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Thomas Sanders welcomed the guests, followed by an Invocation by sophomore Christian Ministry and Business major Kirbee Webb. President J. Blair Blackburn gave remarks and recognitions honoring those in attendance.
“We are delighted to have each of you here as our Kingdom partners and our special guests of honor for this annual tradition, where we celebrate your generosity of support and service to God’s work through East Texas Baptist University,” Dr. Blackburn said. “Thank you for your fervent prayers for our University and the Christ-centered mission He engraved on the heart of this institution 113 years ago. With the ushering in of this season of thanksgiving, we give thanks to God for you. We praise God for your sharing the resources the Lord has blessed you, and in turn, you have sown your talents and treasures in ETBU.”
Senior Communication Studies major Tristan Maggio and senior Nursing major Mackenzie Lawrence shared testimonies of their experiences at ETBU and the impact that scholarships have had on their academic and personal journeys.
“There is something special about this community,” Lawrence said. “The people that have helped build this foundation on excellence and faith. I realize that I'm so blessed to be able to walk in those footsteps. Because with their faithfulness and generosity, students like me have the opportunity to grow here, to serve here, and to carry the light forward.”
Vice President for Executive Affairs Scott Bryant delivered a legacy charge to attendees, highlighting how the University and students’ lives are shaped by their generosity. He emphasized that each gift given to ETBU provides more than just financial support; it creates lasting opportunities for current and future students and positively influences surrounding communities. Bryant shared stories of students whose journeys have been made possible by such gifts, demonstrating how donor contributions empower the University to uphold its mission to prepare Christian servant leaders.
“Your investment in ETBU students is making an impact as they graduate and become Christian servant leaders in whatever field God calls them to serve,” Bryant said. “In the coming weeks, you'll receive thank you notes from the current students that you are investing in. They too will graduate from ETBU. They will go out and do great things, in part because you stepped in and helped at just the right time. You are forever part of the ETBU story.”