September 28, 2024
East Texas Baptist University welcomed students, families, and the community for Family Weekend 2024, held on Friday, September 27, and Saturday, September 28. The event offered a variety of activities that celebrated Tiger pride, fellowship, and campus life.
The weekend began on Friday where families enjoyed live music, lawn games, and local food trucks during Gather at the Grove. Attendees also participated in activities at the Outdoor Recreation Center, which included pickleball, sand volleyball, and basketball.
"Family weekend has been fun for us,” Catherine Johnson, mother of freshman PJ Johnson said. “I love seeing him happy and thriving in his new place—not only excelling in school but also building friendships and growing in his walk with the Lord."
Fans cheered on the ETBU Volleyball team as they earned a 3-1 victory over the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in a thrilling match at Ornelas Gym. Meanwhile, hockey enthusiasts headed to Shreveport, where ETBU Hockey tallied a win over the University of Texas at San Antonio. The evening ended with a Movie Night Under the Stars at Jason Bell Park, complete with popcorn, candy, and drinks.
On Saturday, the day started with Small Business Saturday Market and Brunch Bar, where families supported ETBU students, faculty, and staff selling handcrafted goods and baked treats.
Participants then gathered at Baker Chapel for Family Worship, where the chapel band led the congregation in uplifting music. Dr. Matt Baird, Assistant Professor of Christian Ministry, delivered an inspiring message that resonated with families.
"At ETBU Family Weekend, we see two worlds come together—our ETBU family and your family, united by a shared purpose,” Dr. Baird said. “Just as Jesus demonstrated care and compassion for His own family, we are called to care deeply for one another. This weekend is a time to pause, reflect on the responsibility and love we have for our families, and thank God for the blessing of both our earthly and spiritual families. It’s a weekend filled with joy, fun, and the reminder that we are all part of something greater."
During the Family and Faculty Connection, the families enjoyed Shiver Sticks and met their students’ professors. Throughout the afternoon, sports fans had the opportunity to cheer on the ETBU Volleyball team against UT Dallas, the ETBU Women’s and Men’s Soccer teams against Hardin-Simmons University, while others returned to Shreveport to watch ETBU Hockey take on UTSA once again.
The Family Tailgate began at 3:30 p.m. at The Grove, with the traditional Tiger Walk hyping up the football team before their game. The weekend concluded with the highly anticipated ETBU Football game at Ornelas Stadium, where the Tigers faced off against Centenary College in front of a packed house, securing a 47- 8 victory.
“Family Weekend allows us to connect with the families who play such an important role in our students' success,” Senior Vice President for Campus Life Ryan Erwin said. “It's a time to share the progress we've made together, showcase the campus life their students are thriving in, and celebrate the Christ-centered growth happening here at ETBU."