September 18-20, 2026
Dear Alumni & Friends, Great Scott! The time circuits are activated, and it's time to set your destination for Homecoming 2026. Join us September 18–20, 2026, as Bethany College celebrates Homecoming with this year's theme: Back to the Future. Whether it's been a few years or a few decades since your last visit, Homecoming is your opportunity to reconnect with classmates, revisit cherished traditions, and see how Bethany is shaping the future while honoring its rich history. We're also pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Alumni Awards. Join us during the Celebration Dinner as we recognize and honor fellow Bethanians whose achievements, leadership, and service reflect the very best of Bethany College. 2026 ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENTS Richard Doran ‘78 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award Kelly Kowalski ‘10 Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award Michael Mihalyo Jr. James E. Allison Award for Teaching Excellence The future starts with a trip back. We hope you'll join us for an unforgettable Homecoming weekend as alumni from every generation return to Bethany. Jason Koegler Vice President for Advancement Angie Bado Alumni Engagement Coordinator
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SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 *REGISTRATION REQUIRED Golf Scramble* | 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Tee off at the beautiful Highland Springs Golf Course for a relaxed and unforgettable morning on the greens. Open to alumni of all skill levels, enjoy camaraderie, friendly competition, and breathtaking views. Shuttle service begins at 2 p.m. and runs until 11 p.m. for added convenience. Registration at Erickson Alumni Center | Noon – 5:30 p.m. Kick off the weekend by checking in at the Erickson Alumni Center to receive your name badge, welcome packet, exclusive bookstore coupon, and event info, along with a chance to reconnect with classmates. Erickson Lounge Accommodations | 3 – 6 p.m. Relax in comfort with fellow attendees in the Alumni Center lounge. Stop by for refreshments, informal conversation, and a cozy campus atmosphere while reconnecting with friends. 1933 Society Reception* | 3 – 4:30 p.m. Join distinguished alumni on the Erickson Alumni Center Patio as we honor new members of the 1933 Society, a tradition celebrating academic excellence and enduring scholarship. Men's Soccer Game | 3:40 – 6 p.m. Cheer on the Bison as they take on the Titans of Westminster College at Hoag Field. Pregame ceremony to honor Paul, "Ace" Hayward '83. Class Receptions Class of 1986 Reception* | 4 – 5:30 p.m. (Old Main Corridor) Class of 1976 Reception* | 4 – 5:30 p.m. (Phillips Lounge) Celebrate milestone reunions with your classmates in class-specific settings full of shared memories, stories, and nostalgia. Faculty Art Show | 4 – 6 p.m. Scroll through the Renner art Gallery and enjoy works from Bethany’s artists in residence faculty: Kevin Clancy ’09 and Doug Jackson, an inspiring showcase of artistic talent. Homecoming Celebration Dinner & Alumni Awards Reception* ($35) | 6 – 8 p.m. Gather in Commencement Hall for a festive dinner celebrating reunion classes and honoring award-winning alumni. This warm and festive event brings together classmates and former mentors alike. Cocktails begin at 5:30 p.m.! Bonfire & Pep Rally | 8:15 – 10 p.m. Head to the Sigma Nu House for a brand-new tradition: a bonfire and pep rally! Enjoy firelight, smores, popcorn, school spirit, music, and great company.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 *REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Registration | 9 a.m. – Noon at Erickson Alumni Center Register today to pick up your credentials, exclusive bookstore coupon, meet up with classmates, and get ready for a full schedule. Coffee & Conversation | 9 a.m. - Noon at Erickson Alumni Center patio Start your morning with coffee, donuts, and conversation. Satisfy your caffeine craving, indulge your sweet tooth, and catch up with fellow alumni. Live Town Hall | 9 – 10 a.m., Wailes Theatre Join us in Wailes Theatre for candid updates and dialogue with the President and Chair of the Board of Trustees, get a glimpse into Bethany’s roadmap for the future. Grimes Lecture Series | 10:15 – 11:15 a.m., Wailes Theatre “The Impact of AI on Education in the 21st Century” Featuring Steven Butschi, Director of Education, North America, at Google Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with emerging technologies through hands-on demonstrations and interactive activities, followed by a Q&A session and meet and greet with Steven Butschi in the Steinman lounge. All Alumni Luncheon* ($10) | 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Cafeteria Share a casual meal and reconnect with alumni from across the generations in a warm, inclusive gathering. Tailgate & Family Events Tailgate Area Opens | 11 a.m. Family Fun Event | 12:30 – 3 p.m. (near Football Field) — bring kids and families for games, activities, food, and fellowship Bookstore Opens | 12:30 – 4 p.m. (near Football Field) Class of 2001 Reception | 1 – 6 p.m. (Tailgate Area) Class Photos | 1 – 2:30 p.m. (near 5th Quarter Tent) VIP Reception (by invitation only) | 2 – 5:30 p.m. (Fieldhouse End Zone) Chicks n’ Waffles Food Truck (food available for purchase) | 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Football Game* ($10) | 2 p.m. Cheer on the Bison at the first home football game of the season as they take on the Tomcats of Thiel College 5th Quarter Post‑Game Party* ($20) | 5 – 8 p.m. (by Football Field) Celebrate the team’s effort and keep the energy alive with live music, socializing, food and fun in classic post-game tradition as the party vibe continues.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Scroll Breakfast* | 9 – 10:30 a.m., Wilson Lodge @ Oglebay Relax and reflect at a light breakfast gathering, held off-campus in a scenic retreat setting, perfect for quiet conversation and reminiscing. Church Service | 10:45 a.m. – Noon, Bethany Memorial Church Worship and community at Bethany Memorial Church, bringing spiritual reflection and fellowship to the close of our weekend together.
Where we’re going, we don’t need roads . . . because Bethany is always part of you.
QUESTIONS? If you have any questions or prefer to register over the phone, please contact VP of Advancement Jason Koegler at jason.koegler@bethanywv.edu or 304.780.8144.