Mrs. Chelsea (Jenkins) Christopher (’09) graduated from ETBU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication. She went on to earn a Master of Arts in Global Leadership from Dallas Baptist University, where she met her husband, Steven. The Christophers have two children, Beau and Bella.
Chelsea reflects, “My time at ETBU provided me with an education in a Christian environment that deepened my faith in Jesus.” Following are more of her thoughts.
During a campus visit during my junior year of high school, I was immediately impressed by the warmth and friendliness of everyone I encountered. There was a sense of belonging, and I knew I wanted to be a part of ETBU’s unique community. It was also a bonus that my twin sister, Courtney, planned to attend ETBU!
The unique charm of freshman year definitely stands out, as it brought fresh experiences and friendships. When I think back to my time on the Hill, I’m thankful for the diverse relationships I formed through classes, cheerleading, intramural sports, roommates, BSM, and Delta Pi Theta.
Campus Services Staff Member Kenny Elliot left a lasting impression on me. For many of my classmates before, during, and after our time at ETBU, Kenny’s enduring legacy was marked by his ability to bring joy to the lives of countless students with his infectious brightness and warmth. His genuine friendliness and knack for personal connections allowed him to leave an indelible mark on all who crossed his path. I also had the opportunity to learn from Dr. Cole Franklin, one of my speech communication professors. I enjoyed his class, along with his riddles that I could never crack. I look back and can see the knowledge and confidence I gained in myself and my communication through his leadership, along with the other speech and mass communication professors.
Over the last seven years, I have been able to reconnect with Lauren (Charron) Metang (’11) through church. We have also begun a life group with other families in similar stages of life. It has been a joy to experience a deep community around my family that even goes back to time on the hill.
One of my most cherished memories from ETBU was traveling to Oaxaca, Mexico, with Mrs. Blanca Jenkins for a study abroad class. Here is where I immersed myself in the culture of a Spanish-speaking family despite my limited language skills. Then, after graduation, I transitioned into an Admissions Counselor and thoroughly enjoyed sharing my ETBU journey with prospective students. Each of these experiences paved the way for my current role as the Director of Recruitment at East-West, where I've served for nearly 13 years, inviting others to join in the mission to share the gospel and plant churches among unreached people groups.