New Baptist Student Ministry building dedicated on University of Texas Medical Branch campus sees expanding ministry

GALVESTON - Texas Baptist Student Ministry (BSM), a ministry of Texas Baptists’ Center for Collegiate Ministry, established a new building on the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) campus. Several key donors, former directors, alumni, state BSM staff, local church partners and others gathered on Oct. 21, 2023, to celebrate the history of UTMB BSM and dedicate the new building.

Reaching Galveston students since the 1950’s

Ben and Sharon Raimer, principal donors and namesake for the new building, were present at the dedication to be honored and participate in the ribbon cutting. The couple met in 1972 through UTMB BSM and have since invested deeply in UTMB student life, BSM missions and many other state and international missions.

“The Baptist Student Ministry has been reaching students on UTMB’s campus since the 1950s, and we continue to be a safe place for students to be supported, cared for and encouraged spiritually,” said Amy Land, director of UTMB BSM.

The new building serves as a space for ministry and outreach programs as well as a gathering place for students.

“We started hosting Thursday lunches again in September, and around 50 students have been attending those,” said Land. “We are also open throughout the day as a study space for students.”

The new building has also hosted a World Series watch night, student Bible studies and social events, as well as retreats and conferences for partnering BSMs and organizations.

Campus ministry shifting to regional focus

With added staff, UTMB BSM is shifting to a regional focus in Galveston County.

“While the main focus is student ministry on the UTMB campus, our hope is that this building can serve as a space for outreach to students of other area campuses,” said Bill Noe, associate director for Texas Baptists Center for Collegiate Ministry.

Staff are currently working to build relationships and do outreach on several area campuses, including Galveston College, College of the Mainland and University of Houston Clear Lake.

“Each of these schools is different. At UTMB, we’re obviously reaching medical students, while others are community or commuter schools. There are unique challenges and blessings that come with reaching these different kinds of students in their own contexts.”

To learn more about Baptist Student Ministry and how you can support the work being done on campuses across Texas, visit txbsm.org