Biography
Dr. Blair Blackburn has served as President of East Texas Baptist University since June 2015. Prior to ETBU, he served at four other institutions of higher learning, including Dallas Baptist University, University of Texas at Tyler, Lon Morris College, and Paris Junior College. His experience in campus operations, administrative affairs, student life, athletics, fundraising, and enrollment has led ETBU to a 34% growth in enrollment and over $42,300,000 in total donations during the past eight years. Under Dr. Blackburn’s leadership the University has expanded the number of bachelor’s and master’s degree program offerings. Campus life for students at ETBU abounds with the expansion of spiritual development, student engagement, and servant leadership opportunities.
Dr. Blackburn earned an Associate of Arts from Tyler Junior College, and was named as TJC’s Valuable Young Alumnus in 1999. In 1991, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Texas at Tyler, and was named as UT Tyler’s Distinguished Alumnus in 2016. President Blackburn holds a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from Texas A&M University-Commerce. He earned his Doctor of Education in Educational Administration from Baylor University in 2000. He has been married to his wife, Michelle, for 31 years. The Blackburns have three adult children: Taylor, Elizabeth Blair, and Parker. The Blackburns are members of Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler.
