December 10, 2025
East Texas Baptist University celebrated Commencement on December 6, featuring The Honorable John Cornyn, United States Senator for Texas, as the keynote speaker. The ceremony, held in Baker Chapel of the Rogers Spiritual Life Center, honored the achievements of ETBU's graduating class and inspired attendees with Senator Cornyn’s message, encouraging graduates to embrace their faith, trust God’s guidance, and remain committed to a life of service.
During his address, Senator Cornyn challenged the graduates to consider how they will use their gifts and education to serve others. “As you leave this place with your mind sharpened and faith strengthened, you will step into a world in desperate need of servant-leaders. Whether you pursue a career in medicine, teaching, the military, business, ministry, or dedicate yourself to raising a family, I hope you will find a way to selflessly serve others. And in doing so, you will find purpose.”
Following the graduation ceremony, Senator Cornyn joined community members, faculty, and staff for a luncheon hosted by ETBU in the Great Hall of the Great Commission Center. Attendees enjoyed fellowship and lunch, followed by an engaging Q&A with Senator Cornyn, moderated by ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn. During the Q&A session, Senator Cornyn addressed key issues and shared insights from his career in public service.
In addition, key stakeholders from across the region had the opportunity to brief Senator Cornyn on the most pressing issues affecting East Texas and to highlight programs and initiatives that are making a significant impact across the state. Luncheon guests also posed their own questions, allowing the Senator to connect directly with the East Texas community on a range of topics.
“Senator Cornyn is a powerful and articulate voice for Texas values in Washington,” Dr. J. Blair Blackburn said. “People respect him because of his values and what he stands for, his ability to build relationships and work together for the good of our country and for the best of our state. We are thankful for Senator Cornyn’s esteemed leadership and respected statesmanship as he effectively serves Texas in the U.S. Senate.”
Senator Cornyn was first elected in 2002 and most recently re-elected in 2020. A native of San Antonio, he has served in public office for nearly four decades, including roles as a district judge, a justice of the Texas Supreme Court, and the Texas Attorney General.
In the U.S. Senate, Senator Cornyn serves on the Finance, Judiciary, Intelligence, Foreign Relations, and Budget Committees, contributing to legislation on national defense, immigration, economic policy, and other key issues. From 2013 to 2018, he served as the Senate Republican Whip. He is also involved in efforts related to military personnel, veterans, and their families, as well as matters affecting the state’s economic and policy interests.
“I know at a time when we look out across the country and across the world, and we wonder what in the world is going on, we need good people to assume roles of servant leaders and to be a good example for the rest of the country and for others, and to give us hope that the next days will be brighter than even those we've had behind us,” Senator Cornyn said.