February 2, 2026
East Texas Baptist University announces the launch of the ETBU Promise Scholarship for Children of Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC) Senior Pastors, a new initiative designed to expand access to Christ-centered higher education for pastor families across Texas. This scholarship provides a tuition-only award of up to $20,000 per year, totaling $80,000 over four years, to help the children of senior pastors pursue Christ-centered higher education at ETBU.
As part of the University's mission to equip servant leaders through an education that nurtures the mind, body, and soul, ETBU seeks to support those who faithfully serve the Church while preparing the next generation of graduates for lives of leadership, service, and vocational calling.
“Through the ETBU Promise Scholarship, we are honored to come alongside SBTC senior pastors and their families to remove financial barriers and create access to a Christ-centered education,” ETBU President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn said. “Through this initiative, East Texas Baptist University continues its mission of supporting the local church while empowering future graduates to lead with faith, purpose, and service.”
The scholarship is renewable for up to four consecutive years, offering a total potential value of up to $80,000 per student. Up to 50 graduating high school seniors from the Class of Spring 2026 will be selected as recipients. Awards will be determined by the ETBU Scholarship Committee, which will verify eligibility and ensure all requirements are met for both initial selection and annual renewal.
In addition to maintaining a 3.2 GPA, students must enroll full-time and live in on-campus housing, participate in at least one approved student organization, complete 12 hours of community service per semester through the Great Commission Center, and serve as an ETBU ambassador on campus and beyond.
ETBU is dedicated to biblical faith, academic scholarship, and servant leadership. The ETBU Promise Scholarship for Children of Southern Baptists of Texas Convention Senior Pastors ensures that the children of those faithfully serving in churches across Texas have access to a transformative Christian education.
Eligible students must be dependents of currently serving SBTC senior pastors, meet ETBU's admissions requirements, and submit the official scholarship application.
To learn more or to apply, visit www.etbu.edu/SBTCPromise or contact the Office of Admissions at (903) 923-2000 or admissions@etbu.edu.