UPDATE: East Texas Baptist University (ETBU) has just welcomed over 1,000 guests to its Marshall campus for an exciting Family Weekend held from Friday, October 27, 2023, to Sunday, October 29, 2023. This annual event is designed to strengthen the bond between students and their families while showcasing the vibrant community at ETBU.
The weekend kicked off with the energetic Gather at the Grove event, featuring music, lawn games, and popular food trucks. Attendees enjoyed activities such as pickleball, sand volleyball, and basketball. The festivities continued with a lively performance from the BGB Improv Troupe followed by a Movie Night Under the Stars at Taylor Field, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for families.
Director of Student Life, Laura Coursey, expressed the significance of the event: “Our hope for Family Weekend is that our students’ cups are filled and their parents experienced all the good that their child has been telling them about.” She added, “The enhanced community that comes from our extended Tiger family makes our time together so special.”
The weekend also coincided with the 15th annual Great East Texas Hymn Sing, where hundreds gathered to celebrate Christian faith through hymns led by ETBU alumni, faculty, and staff. This event provided a heartfelt connection among participants, showcasing the university’s commitment to community and faith.
Attendees, like Jim Brown, father of freshman Reagan Brown, shared their joy: “We’ve really enjoyed spending time together at the events — from the worship service to Gather at the Grove and the Tailgate.” His wife, Patty Brown, added, “It makes us feel so much more comfortable knowing she’s surrounded by people who love her and love God.”
On Saturday, the Family Weekend activities continued with a Small Business Saturday Market and Brunch Bar, where families sampled a variety of juices and breakfast foods while shopping from local vendors. This event not only supported small businesses but also fostered a sense of community among attendees.
Later, families gathered for Family Worship in Baker Chapel, followed by the Tiger Family Lunch in the dining hall. In a special initiative, the Family and Faculty Connection allowed parents to meet their students’ professors, deepening their engagement with the educational experience.
As the day wrapped up, many participated in the Family Tailgate before the ETBU Tiger Football Game against Oklahoma Panhandle State University. The excitement of the game added to the festive atmosphere, making this Family Weekend one to remember.
Senior Vice President for Campus Life, Ryan Erwin, emphasized the importance of these gatherings: “Family Weekend is one of our favorite times of the year because it allows us to welcome parents and families into the life of the university. It’s a chance to walk alongside them, celebrate the ways their students are growing and thriving, and rejoice together in the Christ-centered community that makes ETBU feel like home.”
The sense of belonging and the connections made during this weekend highlight the emotional impact of Family Weekend at East Texas Baptist University. With activities designed to engage, entertain, and enlighten, the community spirit continues to thrive, making ETBU a cherished home for students and their families.
Stay tuned for more updates on the impact of Family Weekend events as they unfold.
