Please note that masks will be required to be worn in the public spaces inside Andrews University campus buildings regardless of vaccination status, per University policy. Read more info here.
Please note that all events are subject to change based on the ongoing pandemic situation. Visit the COVID-19 page below for safety and more information.
Andrews University | September 23-26, 2021
We are pleased to announce that we are moving ahead with planning for an in-person Homecoming this fall on the campus of Andrews University on Sept. 23-26, 2021. Please check back frequently for more information about Homecoming over the coming weeks as details are confirmed, and read carefully through the COVID-19 safety information page below. We also highly encourage you to fill out the Homecoming registration form if you plan on attending any of the events throughout the weekend.
Due to Homecoming 2020 getting delayed last year, we will be celebrating multiple honor classes this September. The honored classes during Homecoming 2021 are: 1950, 1951, 1960, 1961, 1970, 1971, 1980, 1981, 1990, 1991, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2010, 2011, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021.
Highlighted Events (may require additional registration)
Join us for a memorable day of golf at Orchard Hills Country Club on Friday, Sept. 24. All proceeds go toward the Andrews Legacy Student Scholarship Fund. RSVP required; more information coming soon.
Join us for Deliverance Mass Choir’s 25th Anniversary Concert Celebration! The concert will be on Saturday, September 25 at 4 p.m. at Andrews Academy.
Below is the list of the choir songs for Alumni weekend:
Matthew 28 (Sabbath Morning): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yB0gKVw-Dk
Concert
When the saints go to worship: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95I8mJqix2U
Let everything that hath breath: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjhJ3xGHkyU
Total Praise– Yaw: https://youtu.be/i0bzfOJ9QAI
All We Ask/Well Done: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1jcm5MleTk
For Every Mountain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUaGoS2LW5g
Annoint me now (Consecrate me now): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iF_-bruU4LE
Tears of Joy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHml7ku8MMY
(Offering Appeal)
Ride on King Jesus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSk1ccpaLI0
After Party
Follower of Christ: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4mZU5X2SQw
Jesus is a rock in a weary land: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVBn2–xVTE
S’mores over a bonfire, haystacks, wagon rides, and visiting with Andrews friends and classmates make the Harvest Picnic a memorable event. Event is complimentary of the Andrews University Alumni Association. The picnic starts at 6 p.m. on Sabbath, September 25 in the backyard of the Alumni House.
The Bradley Family Harvest Run features a 5k and 10.2k, as well as a 1-mile walk option. Explore the natural beauty of Andrews’ campus on one of these scenic courses.
Join us for a special edition of this race on Sunday, Sept. 26 as we celebrate the renaming of this annual event to the inaugural Bradley Family Harvest Run in honor of the late Dr. Fay Bradley, whose generous endowment will enable us to continue offering the Bradley Family Harvest Run to the Andrews University and Berrien community for years to come.
Click here to read more about Dr. Bradley, a 34-time Boston Marathon finisher and Abbot World Marathon Majors finisher who was ranked in the top percentage of the nation in the master’s mile and competed well into his late 70s.
Come watch the 34th annual Homecoming Parade. Viewing bleachers are between the Howard Performing Arts Center and the Seminary Building. The parade will begin at 5 p.m. on Friday, September 24. Learn more and clubs/departments can sign up at alumni.andrews.edu/parade.
Join the Women’s Scholarship Committee for a special brunch and program honoring this year’s Women’s Scholarship recipients on Friday, Sept. 24. RSVP required; click here to reserve your spot.
Title: “Why would you walk 500 miles?”
Speakers: Kris Knutson (BA, ‘01; MA, ‘08) and Denis Fortin (MDiv, ‘86)
For over a thousand years Christians from all over Europe have walked the pilgrim trail Camino de Santiago, the Way of St James, from the French side of the Pyrenees Mountains across northern Spain to the town of Santiago de Compostela. It’s a walk of at least 500 miles to the legendary site of the burial of James, the son of Zebedee, disciple of Jesus and the first apostle to die for his faith.
Today, this ancient pilgrim trail has been reborn and thousands of “pilgrims” walk it every year for countless reasons, some for spiritual devotion, others for personal renewal, or simply for a vacation. In 2019, Kris Knutson (BA, ‘01; MA, ‘08) and Denis Fortin (MDiv, ‘86) walked the Camino over a five-week period. They will share their experience and some encounters along the Way — and maybe inspire you to do it too!
If you are an honored class member, you are invited to this elegant banquet commencing the Homecoming weekend celebrations at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 23. in the Alumni House Backyard Tent. Greet returning classmates and supporters of Andrews University over plates of Sam’s chicken, mashed potatoes and Andrews’ signature dishes. Members of the Class of 1970 and 1971 will be inducted into the Golden Hearts Club after a roll call by the Alumni Association. Honored Alumni will be presented with the Andrews University Alumni Association Medallion, recognizing their outstanding service to church and community. Also honored at this banquet are those who have partnered with Andrews through generous giving, who will be presented with The Spirit of Philanthropy Award. Please RSVP at alumni.andrews.edu/rsvp to secure your complimentary ticket, as space is limited. Honored class members or by invitation only.
2021 Honored Classes: 1950, 1951, 1960, 1961, 1970, 1971, 1980, 1981, 1990, 1991, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2010, 2011, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021
By registering for and attending any Homecoming events, you agree to adhere to the following:
STATEMENT OF SHARED RESPONSIBILITY AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF UNIQUE CIRCUMSTANCES
We are living in unique and uncertain times. None of us knows for sure what the future holds, but at Andrews University we know this—we are going to have a full University experience this fall. We are working hard to ensure that whatever shape the curriculum and co-curriculum takes, it will continue to be the excellent, collegial and productive experience that drew you to Andrews University and to all that we all cherish. At this point we have made the decision to provide an on-campus Homecoming experience in as full a way as possible.
We are committed to meeting federal, state and local health guidelines in all we do. Of course, in the current fluid environment, we cannot promise that the situation will not change. If it does, and we are forced to move to more remote delivery of events, we will do so with your safety in mind. Please understand that whether on campus or remote, a few things are certain:
- Andrews University holds as paramount the health, safety and welfare of every member of its community, and we take seriously our responsibility to create an environment where those principles drive our decisions.
- Having said that, none of us can guarantee what shape COVID-19 will take, and none of us—including Andrews University—can guarantee a COVID-19-free environment. Unfortunately, this is simply not feasible and that means that there is an inevitable risk of infection that we voluntarily accept as we work, visit campus and participate in events.
- Taking steps to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infections (or any other spread of disease) at Andrews University is a shared responsibility. Every member of our community—including you— must do their part. This means adhering to national, state and local health guidelines and requirements, as well as adhering to those measures that Andrews University deems safe and appropriate for its campus. Andrews University reserves the right to impose guidelines that exceed the requirements of the various health agencies. Specific details will be provided as circumstances dictate, but this may include such things as requiring temperature checks, social distancing, contact tracing, wearing masks or other facial coverings, using other PPE, not attending events if sick, and isolating and quarantining when required. You agree to do all of this not just for yourself, but for the safety of others, and because this is consistent with the Andrews University Covenant of Care.
- In complete transparency, you understand that if you return to the physical campus of Andrews University, there is a risk you may contract COVID-19. Despite the University’s efforts to comply with all COVID-19 mitigation recommendations, we cannot categorically guarantee this will not happen. You come to campus acknowledging and understanding this possibility.
- Finally, if you are traveling to the campus of the University to celebrate Homecoming, any expenses incurred in advance for travel, lodging and other costs will be your responsibility to handle, not the University’s, should circumstances change and require a remote Homecoming experience for some currently unplanned reason.
For current ongoing statistics about COVID-19 spread at Andrews University, please visit the University’s COVID-19 Dashboard.
Full Weekend Calendar
Please click on the tabs above to view the preliminary schedule. More activities and information will be added regularly. Please note that all events are subject to change based on ongoing pandemic situation, and check back regularly for any attendance requirement changes such as RSVP information.
1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Registration
Alumni House Backyard Tent
Take advantage of the opportunity to visit with classmates and page through yearbooks as you enjoy refreshments.
You can sign up for events as well as receive your weekend program, nametag and honor class ribbon.
4:30 p.m.
Carscallen Mission Workshop Naming Event
Carscallen Mission Workshop
RSVP required; please RSVP at www.andrews.edu/said/rsvp
Professor Emeritus Carey Carscallen was the driving force for the mission of the School of Architecture & Interior Design for many years, and helped to start the design and construction of the tiny houses, clinic containers and many other projects that can now be expanded due to the new workshop. You are invited to the naming ceremony that is going to be held at the new Carscallen Mission Workshop on September 23, 2021, at 4:30 pm. We hope you can be part of this special event.
6 p.m.
Spirit of Philanthropy & Homecoming Banquet
Honored Class Members or By Invitation Only
Alumni House Backyard Tent
If you are an honored class member, you are invited to this elegant banquet commencing the Homecoming weekend celebrations. Greet returning classmates and supporters of Andrews University over plates of Sam’s chicken, mashed potatoes and Andrews’ signature dishes. Members of the Class of 1970 and 1971 will be inducted into the Golden Hearts Club after a roll call by the Alumni Association. Honored Alumni will be presented with the Andrews University Alumni Association Medallion, recognizing their outstanding service to church and community. Also honored at this banquet are those who have partnered with Andrews through generous giving, who will be presented with The Spirit of Philanthropy Award. Please RSVP at alumni.andrews.edu/rsvp to secure your complimentary ticket, as space is limited.
2021 Honored Classes: 1950, 1951, 1960, 1961, 1970, 1971, 1980, 1981, 1990, 1991, 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2010, 2011, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021
7:30 a.m. Registration and Continental Breakfast
8:30 a.m. Shotgun start
Wes Christiansen Memorial Golf Outing
Orchard Hills Country Club, Buchanan, Michigan
RSVP required
Entry fee: $100 regular, $50 AU students
Price includes 18 holes of scramble golf with cart, lunch and prizes. Support the Alumni Scholarship Fund while enjoying a morning of golf—Four Man/Woman Scramble. Course requirements are collared shirts, soft spikes and no denim pants or shorts. Sponsored by Amita Health, Allred Funeral Home, and others.
8:00 a.m. –12:00 p.m.
School of Nursing Marsh Hall Open House
Marsh Hall will be open for anyone who wants to have a tour of the building and skills labs.
8:30–10 a.m.
Women’s Scholarship Brunch
Alumni House Backyard Tent
RSVP required. Sponsored by the Women’s Scholarship Committee.
Speakers: Kris Knutson (BA, ‘01; MA, ‘08) and Denis Fortin (MDiv, ‘86)
Title: “Why would you walk 500 miles?”
For over a thousand years Christians from all over Europe have walked the pilgrim trail Camino de Santiago, the Way of St James, from the French side of the Pyrenees Mountains across northern Spain to the town of Santiago de Compostela. It’s a walk of at least 500 miles to the legendary site of the burial of James, the son of Zebedee, disciple of Jesus and the first apostle to die for his faith.
Today, this ancient pilgrim trail has been reborn and thousands of “pilgrims” walk it every year for countless reasons, some for spiritual devotion, others for personal renewal, or simply for a vacation. In 2019, Kris Knutson (BA, ‘01; MA, ‘08) and Denis Fortin (MDiv, ‘86) walked the Camino over a five-week period. They will share their experience and some encounters along the Way — and maybe inspire you to do it too!
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Registration
Alumni House Backyard Tent
Take advantage of the opportunity to visit with classmates and page through yearbooks as you enjoy refreshments. You can sign up for events as well as receive your weekend program, nametag and honor class ribbon.
10:30 a.m.
Campus Bus Tour
The bus will load at the Alumni House parking lot at 10 a.m.
Tour guide: Kelsey Curnutt (BA ’11)
Take a trip down memory lane, while being introduced to several new developments on campus. Please note that masks will be required while on the bus.
1–4 p.m.
Homecoming Classic Car Show
Bookstore & Andrews Administration Building Parking Lot
Admire beautifully restored classic cars at this nostalgic seventh annual event hosted by the Area sponsors. Walk around and view rows of classic cars. Bring your Homecoming name badge for discounts on Andrews gear and more. Sponsored by Village Hardware, EYE 4 Design Architects, Dunn Rite Detailing and Swanson Farm.
3:30 p.m.
Tour of the Andreasen Center for Wellness
Andreasen Center for Wellness Lobby
Come tour the facilities of the Andreasen Center for Wellness, which opened in fall 2019. Explore the amenities and rooms within this beautiful Center including the innovative healing oasis, tranquil patio area and various workout spaces, and learn about the benefits this Center provides students and the community.
4 p.m.
Historic Sundial Rededication
Sidewalk intersection between Harrigan & Buller Halls
The Andrews University sundial, which has been part of this community since 1919, has been repaired and refurbished in honor of Donald (MA ’87) and Rebecca (Haug) May (BA ’77), who gave 80 combined years of service to Andrews University.
5 p.m.
34th Annual Homecoming Parade
Viewing bleachers curbside, between the Howard & Seminary buildings
Lineup for entries begins at 4:15 p.m. in the Andrews Academy parking lot, and parade ends at the PMC parking lot.
Come out and watch the pageantry of the creative floats, marching bands and fire trucks as they move through campus during this harvest-themed parade. Awardees will compete for over $500 in total prize money. Entrants will be judged based on personalization, originality, workmanship and spirit. Don’t forget to bring cash/credit card for the Sammy Arepas food truck that will be on-site with vegetarian Latin food offerings! Parade awards ceremony directly follows.
5 p.m.
New Life Fellowship, Black Student Christian Forum (BSCF) & Deliverance Mass Choir (DMC) Alumni Choir Rehearsal
6 p.m.
Department of History & Political Science Picnic
Lesher Memorial Grove
Visit with faculty, students, and alumni at this “come and go” event sponsored by the Department of History & Political Science.
6:30 p.m.
International Flag Raising Ceremony
Flag Mall
Our campus is world-renowned for the way it reflects the international composition of our world church. This annual ceremony provides a beautiful portrayal of our global family. If you have international attire, please wear it proudly! You are also invited to march with us in the preceding parade.
7:30 p.m.
University Vespers
Pioneer Memorial Church
Speaker: Dr. Carlton Byrd (MDiv ‘96m DMin ‘07)
Dr. Carlton Byrd, president of the Southwest Region Conference and a 2021 Andrews University Honored Alumnus, will speak about the importance of mission and being a world changer even now.
7:30 p.m.
AFIA Homecoming Vespers
Activity Center of the University Towers (basement)
Click here to RSVP
7:00–8:30 p.m.
School of Nursing Alumni Vespers
Buller 251
8:30 p.m.
New Life Fellowship, Black Student Christian Forum (BSCF) & Deliverance Mass Choir (DMC) Alumni Impact Vespers
University Towers Auditorium
9 & 11:45 a.m.
The Church at Worship
Pioneer Memorial Church
Speaker: Bill Knott (MDiv’83)
11:45 a.m.
One Place
Newbold Auditorium, Buller Hall
Speaker: Japhet De Oliveira (BA’95, MA’97)
11:30 a.m.
New Life Fellowship & Black Student Christian Forum (BSCF) Alumni 30th Anniversary Celebration
Howard Performing Arts Center
Guest Speaker: Dr. Carlton P. Byrd (MDiv ’96, DMin ’07)
Host Pastor: Danielle Pilgrim (MDiv ‘16)
1 p.m.
Class Reunion Luncheon Buffets
Dining Services, Campus Center
Luncheon pricing:
$10.60 + tax for dine-in; $11.66 + tax for take-out
Child (ages 4–10):
$6.78 + tax for dine-in; $11.66 + tax for take-out
Meal cards may be purchased ahead of time at the Dining Services office, or pay with debit/credit card (no cash) as you go through the line.
Classes of 1950, 1951, 1960, 1961, 1970, 1971
Badger Room, Campus Center
Classes of 1980, 1981 1990, 1991, 2010, 2011, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021
Lincoln and Hoosier Rooms, Campus Center
Classes of 1995, 1996, 2000, 2001
Great Lakes Room (main dining room), Campus Center
1:30-2:30 p.m.
School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness International Cuisine Luncheon
Outdoor Lawn Area (in front of Marsh Hall Building)
An International Cuisine luncheon for alumni of the School of Population Health, Nutrition & Wellness (formerly the Department of Public Health, Nutrition & Wellness).
2-4 p.m.
Community and International Development Open House
203 Buller Hall
Alumni from the Community and International Development program are invited to stop by to visit with faculty and reconnect.
2 p.m.
New Life Fellowship, Black Student Christian Forum (BSCF) & Deliverance Mass Choir (DMC) Alumni Lunch
Andrews Academy
3–5 p.m.
Museums and Open Houses
You are encouraged to explore campus and check out your former department. Some buildings you may remember and others may be new to you. The following areas, among others, will be open.
Andrews Botanical Conservatory
4th Floor, Price Hall, Science Complex
The Andrews Botanical Conservatory contains a wide variety of desert and tropical plants in four rooms on the roof of Price Hall.
Museum of Natural History
1st Floor, Price Hall, Science Complex
The Natural History Museum features the Prillwitz Mammoth, the most complete skeleton found in Michigan, along with a large collection of mammals and birds
4 p.m.
Deliverance Mass Choir 25th Anniversary Concert Celebration
Andrews Academy
4–6 p.m.
Agriculture Education Center Open House
Agriculture Education Center (Former Dairy)
The former dairy is now the new Agriculture Education Center. Check out all the animals that are teaching Andrews students, and learn the plans for the future for this new center of learning.
4-6 p.m.
Retirement Recognition Reception for Bruce Closser and Beverly Matiko
Courtyard between Nethery Hall and Buller Hall
The Department of English invites you to celebrate the personal and professional contributions of Dr. Bruce Closser and Dr. Beverly Matiko. Join us for a light reception followed by a short program recognizing the retirement of these two inspirational professors emeriti.
5 p.m.
Church History Suite Dedication to Dr. Walter Douglas
Seminary, Room N327
Come and celebrate with us the dedication of the Church History Suite in the SDA seminary in honor of Dr Walter Douglas for his 35 years of service to the seminary.
5:30–7:30 p.m. (tours will depart every half-hour)
Harvest Tours
The wagon will load at the Alumni House backyard
Climb on board and join the wagon tour as it meanders around the orchards and farms. An adult needs to accompany small children. In case of rain, the Harvest Tour will be canceled.
Please note: Outdoor activities of these kinds can be hazardous and carry some risk of injury. I mindfully accept the responsibilities of my participation/that of my child.
Please note: Class Reunion Photos will be taken at the Alumni Tent during the Harvest Picnic in the following order:
5:30–7:45 p.m.
Class Reunion Photos
Alumni House Backyard Tent
5:30 Golden Hearts Club (1971 and earlier)
5:50 Classes of 1950 and 1951
6:05 Classes of 1960 and 1961
6:20 Classes of 1970 and 1971
6:35 Classes of 1980 and 1981
6:50 Classes of 1990 and 1991
7:05 Classes of 1995 and 1996
7:20 Classes of 2000 and 2001
7:35 Classes of 2010 and 2011
7:40 Classes of 2015 and 2016
7:45 Classes of 2020 and 2021
6 p.m.
New Life Fellowship, Black Student Christian Forum (BSCF) & Deliverance Mass Choir (DMC) Alumni Meet and Greet Reception
Andrews Academy
6 p.m.
Harvest Picnic
Alumni House Backyard Tent
Parking is available behind the Science Complex, with additional parking at Chan Shun Hall and Howard Performing Arts Center
Join us for this family favorite Homecoming tradition. Whether it’s under the big tent or sitting around the crackling campfire and roasting s’mores, enjoy fellowship and a light haystack supper.
8 p.m.
Alumni Homecoming Gala
Howard Performing Arts Center
Join us for a complimentary concert featuring the Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Chris Wild, the University Singers, conducted by Stephen Zork, and the Wind Symphony, conducted by Byron Graves. A dessert reception will be held after the program.
9 p.m. – CANCELED
Alumni vs. Students Basketball Games
Andreasen Center for Wellness
The men’s and women’s Cardinal basketball teams will make their debut as they compete against alumni teams in the Andreasen Center for Wellness Recreation Center. Be sure to come and cheer your team on.
7:30–11:30 a.m.
Aviation Annual Fly-In/Drive-In Pancake Breakfast
Andrews University Airpark
Adults $7 (children ages 5 and under $3)
Breakfast will be served until 11 a.m.
The Andrews University Airpark invites pilots and non-pilots alike to come out for this annual event. Come for a hearty pancake breakfast in one of our large hangars. Stay to check out the interesting aircraft or vehicles that show up. Learn about the services available to pilots and their aircraft as you see the airport facilities and check out our fleet of planes. Breakfast is free for fly-in pilots and drive-in antique car owners!
9 a.m.
Bradley Family Harvest Run 5K/10K and 1 Mile Walk
Parking available at Pioneer Memorial Church
(Day-of-Registration and packet pick-up from 8–8:45 a.m. at the Andreasen Center for Wellness)
Adults $30, current AU students and children 12 and under $20
1-Mile Walk: $12
Join us for a very special event this year as we celebrate the renaming of our annual Harvest Run to the Bradley Family Harvest Run in honor of Dr. Fay Bradley. The late Dr. Bradley was a 34-time Boston Marathon finisher, Abbott World Marathon Majors finisher and USA Track & Field Masters Hall of Fame member (2003) among other accomplishments. Dr. Bradley was also a Harvest Run finisher, and his gift toward this run will enable us to continue hosting the Bradley Family Harvest Run for many years to come.
Come enjoy the beautiful views of Andrews University’s central campus and (for the 10K) challenging forest trails. Run past iconic scenes such as the J.N. Andrews sculpture, the Globe, and ULC Arch. This year’s start/finish location will be at the Andreasen Center for Wellness.
8-9:30 a.m.
School of Education Alumni Breakfast
Bell Hall, Room 180
Hosted by the Department of Graduate Psychology & Counseling. Come see Bell Hall and enjoy a delicious breakfast with fellow graduates from the School of Education.
11 a.m.
Tour of the Andreasen Center for Wellness
Andreasen Center for Wellness Lobby
Come tour the facilities of the Andreasen Center for Wellness, which opened in fall 2019. Explore the amenities and rooms within this beautiful Center including the innovative healing oasis, tranquil patio area and various workout spaces, and learn about the benefits this Center provides students and the community.
Honored Class Reunions
Visit your honored class reunion page to submit photos and share stories from your time at Andrews.
Lodging
Making your stay for Homecoming a great experience is possible with more than 30+ lodging options near the Andrews University Campus.
A range of accommodations are offered on-campus including a full-service cafeteria. Guest Services offers campus tours to families, individuals and groups. You may arrange a tour by calling 269-471-3360 or by email to Guest Services.
When arriving at Andrews, please stop by the Campus Safety Office to obtain your free visitors parking permit.
Honored Alumni
Day passes for the Andreasen Center of Wellness will be available for Andrews alumni to purchase at the Center’s front desk at a 50% discount rate during September 23-26. Day passes will be $5 each for alumni during those dates.
Please note that masks will be required to be worn in the public spaces inside Andrews University campus buildings regardless of vaccination status, per University policy. Read more info here.
If you experience any of the following during Homecoming, please do not attend events or access campus.
- Tested POSITIVE for COVID-19 in last 10 days
- Close contact with confirmed/probable case
- New or unexplained loss of taste or smell
- Temp above 100.4 F/38.0 C or chills
- New unexplained cough, sore throat, congestion or runny nose
- Unexplained diarrhea or vomiting
- Unexplained new fatigue, muscle or body aches
- New or unexplained shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Notify the Office of Campus Safety at 269-471-3321 or safety@andrews.edu if you feel ill or test positive for COVID-19 after attending Homecoming events.
