MARSHALL — U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., delivered one of two commencement addresses Saturday for East Texas Baptist University’s largest graduating class.
The ceremonies in Baker Chapel of the Rogers Spiritual Life Center marked the conferral of degrees to 140 undergraduate and 62 graduate students
Manchin has represented West Virginia in the U.S. Senate since November 2010. He grew up in a coal mining community, learning the values of family, fairness, and hard work from his immigrant grandparents, who inspired his commitment to public service, according to ETBU.
East Texas Baptist University’s two ceremonies Saturday in Baker Chapel of the Rogers Spiritual Life Center marked the conferral of degrees to 140 undergraduate and 62 graduate students. (Courtesy Photo)
Manchin also is former small business owner, state legislator and six-term governor of West Virginia.
He chairs the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and serves on the Appropriations, Armed Services, and Veterans’ Affairs Committees.
Manchin urged graduates to embrace their calling and approach life with a spirit of unity and collaboration.
“There’s no way in the world you can make it by yourself,” Manchin said. “I’ve never had anybody who worked for me; they worked with me. We all have to work together to make something happen. Success depends on the team moving in the same direction. Whether you’re leading a team or contributing to one, always remember that it’s not about tearing people down but building them up so they can rise and grow. That’s how we create lasting impact.”
In the Saturday afternoon ceremony, Dr. Karen O’Dell Bullock was awarded an honorary doctorate and delivered the keynote address.
Dr. Karen O’Dell Bullock was awarded an honorary doctorate and delivered the keynote address Saturday at East Texas Baptist University’s afternoon commencement. (Courtesy Photo)
“An esteemed scholar and educator, Dr. Bullock has taught at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels for over 30 years,” according to ETBU. “A Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary graduate with M.Div. and Ph.D. degrees, she has held leadership roles at Southwestern, Dallas Baptist University, and B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary, where she recently retired but continues teaching and mentoring doctoral students.”
Bullock is executive vice president of the Baptist Center for Global Concerns, addressing global inequities through leadership training, agricultural projects and medical clinics.
“She is a passionate advocate for Christian heritage, missions, and justice, and also chairs the Baptist World Alliance Commission Council,” according to ETBU.
“We are what we read,” Bullock said. “We are shaped and influenced by the books we read. They prepare us not only for interesting conversations but also for facing the real challenges of life. As graduates of East Texas Baptist University, an institution grounded in Christian values, you’ve been immersed in God’s word. Its teachings are woven into the fabric of this campus, from the halls to the classrooms.
“These divine messages inspire us to grow in character, to deepen our faith, and to prioritize being over mere knowing or doing. You’ve been challenged to follow Christ while pursuing your academic goals. As you step into the world, remember that life won’t always be easy. You may face hardships, trials, and setbacks. But God promises to strengthen you and sustain you.”
