East Texas Baptist University Hosts 1,000+ for Family Weekend
UPDATE: East Texas Baptist University (ETBU) is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes over 1,000 visitors for its annual Family Weekend, running from October 20-22, 2023. This cherished event offers students and their families a chance to connect and celebrate the vibrant campus community in Marshall, Texas.
Director of Student Life, Laura Coursey, emphasized the weekend’s significance: “Our hope for Family Weekend is that our students’ cups are filled, and their parents experience all the good that their child has been sharing with them.” The festivities kicked off with the highly anticipated Gather at the Grove on Friday, featuring live music, lawn games, and food trucks, creating a festive atmosphere for families to bond.
As the weekend unfolds, attendees are treated to a wide array of activities, including a performance by the BGB Improv Troupe and a Movie Night Under the Stars. The weekend coincided with the 15th annual Great East Texas Hymn Sing, where hundreds gathered to celebrate their faith through song, led by ETBU alumni and faculty.
Parents are sharing emotional experiences, with Jim Brown, father of freshman Reagan Brown, stating, “We’ve 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.”
Saturday’s agenda kicks off with the Small Business Saturday Market and a brunch bar where families can enjoy breakfast while browsing a unique selection of local vendors. Later, families will gather in Baker Chapel for Family Worship, followed by a Tiger Family Lunch in the dining hall, fostering connections between students and their families.
The day culminates in the Family Tailgate before the ETBU Tiger Football Game against Oklahoma Panhandle State University. Senior Vice President for Campus Life, Ryan Erwin, remarked, “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.”
As the weekend progresses, families are engaging in heartfelt interactions, strengthening ties within the ETBU community. With events designed to celebrate and support students, this Family Weekend not only enriches the university experience but also creates lasting memories for families.
Stay tuned for more updates as the weekend continues to unfold!
