ETBU Students James Fugate and Kellie Ann Thompson Receive the Bob & Gayle Riley Servant Leadership Award

MARSHALL, Texas (10/08/12)- The 4th annual Bob and Gayle Riley Servant Leadership Award was presented to students James Fugate and Kellie Ann Thompson during Chapel on Monday at East Texas Baptist University. The two seniors received their awards from Dr. Riley, president emeritus, and his wife, Gayle.

Fugate is a Psychology and Criminal Justice major from Spring, Texas, who will graduate in December. He is a member of the ETBU Tiger football team and serves as a captain. Fugate has led the Tiger Mentoring program allowing football players to spend time with local youth. During his time at ETBU, he has also participated in Habitat for Humanity, Prison Ministry, multiple mission trips and has been active at the Church at Lake Cherokee.

Thompson, from Crandall, Texas, will graduate in Spring 2013 with a degree in Elementary Education. She has been an active leader in Baptist Student Ministry Journey and LifeGroup. Thompson is also involved with children in the Marshall community as Kids Club ministry leader. She is an active member at Crossroads Baptist Church of Marshall.

The Bob and Gayle Riley Servant Leadership Award is given annually to two students who exhibit exceptional servant leadership. Students are nominated by their peers during the spring semester and then invited to apply for the award.

The Riley’s presented each winner with a miniature replica of Max Greiner’s sculpture of Jesus washing the feet of Simon Peter named the "Divine Servant” and a cash award.

Greiner’s "Divine Servant” sculpture is located at the north entrance of the Ornelas Spiritual Life Center and was donated by the Rileys to the University. Dr. Riley served as ETBU’s 11th president from 1992 until his retirement in 2009.