Dr. Ashley (Gonzalez) Shetter (’14) earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology here at ETBU, and would also go on to complete a Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. She now serves as a Physical Therapist while currently working as an Assistant Professor at William Carey University. Ashley lives in Ridgeland, MS, with her husband Alex, ETBU class of ’15, and their son Kendal.
Looking back, I can see that the Lord was leading me to ETBU. Initially, though, I was just searching for a school close to home in Henderson, TX, where I could continue playing soccer.
Dr. Catherine Cone had a lasting impact during my time at ETBU, and I was fortunate enough to have her for several classes. The way she taught and prayed over us before each test is something I will remember forever. I also had the opportunity to serve on a mission trip to Ecuador with her that ultimately led me to my salvation. I appreciate her words of wisdom, charisma for teaching, and her faith, which was reflected in many aspects of her life. Mrs. Ella, who served us in the cafeteria. I know I am not the only one to feel this way, but the manner in which she served us, asked how we were doing, and genuinely cared about us will stay with me for a while. I remember when she got a new car, and when I tell you the entire football and soccer team was excited for her, that is no exaggeration. If Mrs. Ella is still there, please stop by and hug her for me. She has a true servant's heart and demonstrates the love of Christ in everything she does. Dr. Joseph Brown, now I didn't get to spend much time with him other than my last semester at ETBU, but I'm sure glad I did. He pushed me in ways that I didn't realize I needed and motivated me to pursue my career in physical therapy. I think about other students and I racing up the steps to beat him to class before he " locked us out". Hope you got those knee replacements and had a great PT, Dr. Brown.
Social media makes it a lot easier to stay connected to everyone, so I am still able to keep up with quite a few of my soccer teammates as well as my husband's football buddies. The friendships I made throughout my time on the Hill have gotten me through my early adult years, pushed me in my walk with Jesus, and now into motherhood. It is so amazing to see our growth and impact when we serve in different regions.
“I think the thing I remember most is being surrounded by people of faith. Getting out in the real world made me realize how fortunate I was to be in an environment that creates Christian Servant Leaders and learn what a church family really looks like. “ Being a physical therapist has given me daily opportunities to serve others and help them during their time of need. From my education to time spent developing my faith on the Hill, I can share my testimony and encourage those suffering from different ailments.
If I had the opportunity to speak with the next generation of Tigers, I would tell them that this is the most special place and time of their life. This is where your faith will grow and prepare you for the world ahead. You are in a safe place among believers to ask the questions, learn, and demonstrate what being a follower of Christ is like. Don't take your ETBU family for granted; they will be your brothers and sisters in Christ for a lifetime.