East Texas Baptist University held its homecoming celebration Friday and Saturday, welcoming alumni and friends to events on campus. The festivities began Friday with the annual homecoming chapel service in the Rogers Spiritual Life Center.
Dr. Scott Bryant, vice president for executive affairs, said homecoming is a time to reflect on the university's history and reconnect with alumni. He said the event also gives alumni a chance to meet current students.
At the chapel service, the university honored its 2026 Golden Blazer recipients: Charles Ray, Martha (Sanders) Freeman and Don S. Preston. The school said 109 people have received the Golden Blazer since the program began in 2010. The Golden Blazer recognizes generous financial support and volunteer hours.
The 2026 Alumni Awards went to Josiah Jones, Unsung Hero Award; Jessica (Delgado) Jakubowski, Young Alumnus Award; Janae (Schlabs) Shirley, Alumni Achievement Award; and Jason Bell, Blue and Gold Award. Jakubowski said being recognized by the university was an honor.
After the chapel service, the class of 1976 was honored at the Golden Lightkeepers Luncheon in the Great Hall of the Great Commission Center.