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Alumni & Friends

Homecoming: The Fall Tradition Returns

 

A Week of Tradition. A Celebration of Community. A Place to Belong.

There’s something special about coming home—and at Wayland Baptist University, Homecoming is about more than returning to campus. It’s about celebrating the people, memories, traditions, and Pioneer spirit that connect generations of Wayland family.

And now, we have even more reason to celebrate… 

Homecoming Is BACK in the FALL! October 18–24, 2026

For the first time in several years, Wayland Baptist University is excited to welcome Homecoming back to the fall season where this beloved tradition has long called home.

And this year, Homecoming isn’t just a weekend—it’s an entire week of Pioneer celebration!

From October 18–24, campus and the surrounding community will come alive with a mixture of events and activities designed to bring students, alumni, faculty, staff, friends, families, and the Plainview community together.

Whether you are a current student making your first Homecoming memories, an alumnus returning to campus after years away, a longtime friend of Wayland, or a community member ready to experience the Pioneer spirit, there is a place for you at Homecoming 2026.

Come back to reconnect with old friends.
Come back to celebrate lifelong memories.
Come back to cheer on the Pioneers.
Come back to discover what’s happening on the Hill.
Come back to make memories that will last for years to come.

 

Ready to Wear the Crown?

Homecoming is about celebrating Pioneer pride, tradition, and the people who make Wayland special—and now it’s your chance to be part of the tradition!

Students interested in representing Wayland as Homecoming King or Queen are invited to apply for Homecoming Royalty. Whether you’re passionate about Wayland, involved on campus, or simply ready to make a lasting Homecoming memory, we want to hear from you.

Step into the spotlight. Represent the Pioneers. Make Homecoming history.

Applications are now open!

Get Information & Apply

 

Schedule of Events

 

Sunday, Oct. 18

Monday, Oct. 19

7 p.m.-Prevail Worship Gathering (hosted by the Baptist Student Ministry)

Come and worship alongside current students at Prevail, a weekly worship service led by the Baptist Student Ministry team. The Office of Spiritual Life at WBU actively leads and equips students to follow Jesus whole-heartedly and to share the Gospel with others. Come and see how God is working in the lives of this generation of college students as they seek to make Jesus Christ known on their campus.

  • Location: SMAC/Trinity Building

8 p.m.-10 p.m.- Ice Cream at the Laney (Presented by Student Activities)

What better way to celebrate Homecoming than with ice cream and the Wayland family? Stop by the Laney Student Activities Center for "Ice Cream in Laney", a fun and relaxed evening where students, alumni, friends, and the Wayland community can gather, reconnect, and enjoy a sweet Homecoming treat.

Whether you're catching up with old friends, making new ones, or simply looking for a place to unwind after a full day of Homecoming activities, come grab a scoop and stay awhile. It’s a simple Wayland tradition in the making—good ice cream, great people, and plenty of Pioneer spirit!

Come for the ice cream. Stay for the fellowship. Celebrate Homecoming the Wayland way!

Tuesday, Oct. 20

7 p.m.-9 p.m. (UC 211)-Mental Health Awareness Event

Take a break from the excitement of Homecoming Week and make time to care for yourself! Counseling Services invites students to Take Care Tuesday, an evening focused on mental health, relaxation, and practical ways to manage anxiety and stress.

Participants will explore mindfulness and somatic techniques designed to help calm the mind, release tension, and promote overall well-being. Come as you are, slow down for a while, and discover healthy ways to de-stress.

Take care of your mind. Take care of your body. Take care of you.

 

9:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Late-Night Breakfast (UC Cafeteria)

Keep the Homecoming celebration going Tuesday night with a late-night breakfast exclusively for Wayland students! Bring your friends, enjoy delicious breakfast favorites, and take a break from the week with great food, fun, and Pioneer fellowship. Come hungry, wear your Wayland gear, and make Tuesday night one to remember! A valid Wayland student ID is required for entry.


 

Wednesday, Oct. 21

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Mabee Regional Heritage Center Open (Flying Queens, Jimmy Dean, and Llano Estacado Museums)

  • For more information: 806-291-3660

10 a.m.-5 p.m.:  The Malouf Abraham Family Art Gallery Open

11 a.m.:  Homecoming Chapel (Harral Auditorium)

Join us for a special homecoming chapel. Additionally, our honor class alumni will be recognized and homecoming queen and king candidates will be introduced.

Livestream: /about/spiritual-life/chapel/index.htm

Tune into 91.5 FM (Plainview and local area) 

Guest Speaker: Rodney Wallace (Plainview-1996-BS; Plainview-2014-M.Ed); Sarah Wallace (Plainview-1999-B.I.S.; Plainview-2019-M.Ed)

Praise/Worship Band: House Band

 

12:00 p.m-2:00 p.m.: A Splash of Pioneer Spirit (Outside UC Cafeteria)

Cool down and celebrate Homecoming with a refreshing splash of Pioneer spirit! Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends are invited to stop by for a fresh cup of lemonade, connect with the Wayland community, and enjoy a little Blue & Gold fellowship during Homecoming Week.

Come thirsty. Leave refreshed. Stay Pioneer proud!


 

 

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Thursday, Oct. 22

8:00–10:00 p.m.Worship Night on the Patio

Take a moment during the excitement of Homecoming Week to gather in worship and fellowship. Join us Thursday evening for Worship Night on the Patio, led by Jarrett Lynch.

Come as you are and spend the evening worshiping alongside students, alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of Wayland. Whether you’re returning home to Wayland or experiencing Homecoming for the first time, this will be a special opportunity to slow down, connect with one another, and center our hearts on Christ.

One Wayland. One Community. One Night of Worship.

 

6:00 p.m.- Pioneers of Excellence Dinner-Invitation Only (Location: Trinity Building Sanctuary)

An evening dedicated to gratitude, celebration, and the enduring spirit of Wayland. University partners will gather for the Pioneers of Excellence Dinner to recognize and celebrate those whose generous support, faithful commitment, and selfless service continue to advance the mission of Wayland Baptist University.

This special gathering provides an opportunity to honor the individuals and partners whose dedication helps strengthen the Wayland community and ensures its mission continues to impact generations of Pioneers.

This is an invitation-only event.



 

 

Friday, Oct. 23

10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.: Mabee Regional Heritage Center Open (Flying Queens, Jimmy Dean, and Llano Estacado Museums)

  • For more information:

 

 

 

10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.: The Malouf Abraham Family Art Gallery open 

For more information:


 

 

 

11:00 a.m.-Class of 1976 50th Anniversary Check-In and Luncheon

Celebrate 50 Years of Pioneer Memories!

Class of 1976, this is your moment! Check in, reconnect with classmates, and join us for a special reunion luncheon celebrating 50 years of friendships, memories, and the lasting impact of your Wayland experience. Come share stories, renew old friendships, and celebrate this incredible milestone together!

  • Location: UC 211 (Upstairs above the cafeteria) 
  • Registration Link:  

 

 

1:00 p.m.- Class of 1976 Campus Tour

See Wayland Again!

Take a walk down memory lane with a special campus tour for the Class of 1976! Rediscover familiar places, see how the campus has grown and changed, and hear about what’s new at Wayland. Come see how far we’ve come while remembering the place where so many lifelong memories began.

  • Register here:  

 

 2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.-Flying Queens Legacy: “If Not For Them” Special Episode Viewing

Join the Hutcherson Flying Queens Foundation for a special Homecoming celebration at the Wayland Hutcherson Flying Queens Museum! Alumni Flying Queens will be on hand to welcome guests, share their stories, and help provide museum tours. The current Flying Queens team, Coach Jordan Vessels, and staff will also join the celebration.

The afternoon will feature a special episode viewing of If Not For Them, a documentary by Brenda VanLengen honoring the trailblazers who helped shape women’s basketball.

Viewing begins at 2:30 p.m.
Location: Wayland Hutcherson Flying Queens Museum

2:30pm-Battle at Hilliard: Pioneer Wrestling Duals

 Get ready for takedowns, team pride, and Homecoming energy! Join us at Hilliard Field as Wayland’s men’s and women’s wrestling teams face Murray State College in an exciting showdown. Wear your Blue and Gold, bring your loudest cheers, and help rally our Pioneers to victory!

6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.-Sip, Mix & Mingle: Dirty Sodas and Boba (Presented by Student Activities) 

Take a break from the Homecoming excitement and stop by for a refreshing afternoon treat! Dirty Sodas & Boba is the perfect opportunity to grab a creative drink, catch up with friends, and enjoy the energy of Homecoming at Wayland.

Choose something fizzy and flavorful or satisfy your boba craving while spending time with fellow Pioneers. Whether you're heading to your next Homecoming event, exploring campus, or simply looking for a fun place to hang out, swing by and sip, mix, and mingle with the Wayland family.

Grab a drink, make a memory, and keep the Homecoming celebration going!


6:00 p.m.-Pioneers on the Court!

Homecoming Week gets competitive at The Hutch! Join us at 6:00 p.m. as Wayland Baptist Women’s Volleyball takes on the College of the Ozarks. Bring your Pioneer spirit, cheer on the team, and help us pack The Hutch!

 

 

6:00 p.m.:  Blue & Gold Awards Banquet (Trinity Building Chapel)

Join us as we honor this year's Distinguished Alumni, Distinguished Benefactor, Distinguished Young Alumnus, and Alumni Educators of the Year.

If you would like to attend the banquet and reserve a seat (meal included), please RSVP here:  

  

Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients:

  • Dr. Phillip Aday, Class of 1976— Bachelor of Science
  • Rev. Christopher Riley, Classes of 1996 and 2008 — Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Religious Education; Master of Arts in Religion

Distinguished Benefactor Award Recipients: 

  •  Randy and Carol Kaufman

Distinguished Young Alumnus Award Recipient: 

  • Marisabelle Trevino, Class of 2013 — Bachelor of Science in Fitness Management Composite

Alumni Educators of the Year: 

  • Anthony Wagner, Class of 1996 — Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, All-Level
  • Dana West, Classes of 1989 and 1992 — Bachelor of Science; Master of Education in Educational Administration

 

6:00 p.m.- Class of 1976 Reconnect and Visit

Come together with your Class of 1976 friends for a relaxed time of reconnecting, reminiscing, and celebrating 50 years of memories! Enjoy refreshments while sharing favorite photos, stories, and unforgettable moments from your Wayland days. Bring your pictures, bring your memories, and most importantly, come ready to reconnect with the classmates who were part of your Wayland story.

  • Location: Baptist Student Ministry Fellowship Hall
    • Trinity Building (810 Utica; North Edge of WBU Campus)

 

8:00 p.m.-An Evening of Music, Faith & Wayland Tradition (Harral Auditorium)

As Homecoming brings the Wayland family together, spend an evening experiencing the beauty, power, and tradition of music at Wayland Baptist University.

Join us for ABIDE, a special concert presented by the Wayland Baptist University Choir. Through an inspiring evening of choral music, our talented students will fill Harral Auditorium with voices that reflect Wayland’s commitment to faith, excellence, and community.

Whether you are an alumnus returning home, a member of the Wayland community, or a guest joining us for Homecoming, ABIDE offers a meaningful opportunity to pause amid the weekend’s excitement, enjoy beautiful music, and celebrate the spirit that continues to connect generations of the Wayland family.

Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.


Saturday, Oct. 24

 

9:00 a.m.-Athletics Hall of Honor Ceremony (Learning Resources Center-Atrium)

Celebrate the rich tradition of Pioneer Athletics as Wayland Baptist University welcomes the 2026 Athletics Hall of Honor Class. Join alumni, friends, and the Wayland community as we recognize these outstanding individuals for their achievements and lasting contributions to WBU Athletics.

2026 HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEES

Chelsey Driskill Souza
Volleyball | 2012–2015

Brian Whitlock
Cross Country & Track and Field Coach | 2004–2011; 2015–2022 麻豆APP

Marina Gallegos
Women’s Golf | 2014–2018

Edward “Eddie” Taragon
Cross Country & Track and Field | 2009–2012

Eddie Allen
Baseball | 2007–2011

The public is invited to attend. (Limited Seating)


11:00 a.m.-Pioneers at the Grill-Sponsored by PCI (Front of Gates Hall)

Come hungry and get ready for Homecoming Gameday!

Before cheering on the Pioneers, join us for Pioneers at the Grill—a Homecoming cookout bringing together alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends for food, fellowship, and plenty of Pioneer spirit.

Grab a bite, reconnect with the Wayland family, and enjoy the excitement as we get ready for kickoff. Make it part of your Homecoming Saturday and help us set the stage for a great afternoon of Pioneer football!

Complimentary food available while supplies last.

 

11:00 a.m.-Class of 1976 Lunch Before Kickoff 

Before the excitement of the Homecoming football game begins, the Class of 1976 is invited to gather for a casual lunch together! Enjoy good food, easy conversation, and one more opportunity to spend time with classmates before heading out to cheer on the Pioneers. No formal program—just a relaxed time to enjoy being together and celebrate 50 years of Wayland connections before kickoff!

  • Location: Baptist Student Ministry Fellowship Hall
    • Trinity Building (810 Utica; North Edge of WBU Campus)
  • RSVP Link:  

12:00 p.m.-Bring the Pioneer Spirit to The Hutch!

Get ready to turn up the energy and cheer on your Wayland Baptist University Women’s Volleyball team during Homecoming Week! The Pioneers are taking the court at 12:00 p.m. as they face off against John Brown University at The Hutch.

Gather your friends and family, wear your Pioneer gear, and help fill the stands with the energy our team deserves. Whether you’re a current student, proud alumnus, or a member of the Wayland community, this is your chance to be part of the action and show your Pioneer pride!

 

2:00-5:00 p.m.:  The Malouf Abraham Family Art Gallery open

Discover one of the cultural gems of Wayland Baptist University at the Malouf Abraham Family Art Gallery. Located in the WBU Library, the gallery showcases a diverse collection of exhibitions featuring local, regional, national, and student artists. With works ranging from paintings and photography to sculpture and other media, the gallery offers visitors an opportunity to experience creativity, culture, and artistic expression right here on the Hill. Admission is free and the gallery is open to the public.

 

2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.-Pioneer Tailgate Takeover

The excitement starts well before kickoff! Students, alumni, families, and the entire community are invited to come together for a Homecoming Tailgate packed with Pioneer spirit!

WBU student organizations will bring the fun with games, face painting, crowd signs, activities, and plenty of ways to get ready to cheer on the Pioneers.

Come hungry! Our tailgate will also feature food trucks serving up your pre-game favorites, including:

Shady’s BBQ | Chop Chop | Kenosis | Yellow Duck | Boys Jerky

And there’s more to come!

Grab your friends, bring the family, wear your blue and gold, and make the tailgate part of your Homecoming Saturday.

Come early. Stay for the fun. Then head into the stadium ready to cheer on the Pioneers!

 4:00 p.m.-Saturday Football. Homecoming Spirit. Pioneer Pride!

There’s nothing quite like Homecoming in the fall—and this year, we’re bringing back one of the traditions that makes it so special: Homecoming Football!

Join the Pioneer family on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. as Wayland Baptist University Football takes the field against Arkansas Baptist College at Greg Sherwood Memorial Bulldog Stadium (24th Street and Yonkers Street-Plainview) As Homecoming returns to the fall season, we want to celebrate in true Pioneer fashion—with a packed stadium, plenty of blue and gold, and the energy of the entire Wayland community behind our team!

This is more than just a football game. It’s a chance for current students, alumni, families, faculty, staff, friends, and community members to come together and celebrate the traditions and relationships that make Wayland feel like home.

Whether you’re returning to campus for the first time in years, making your first Homecoming memories as a student, or simply looking for a great way to celebrate with the Pioneer family, we want to see you in the stands!

Put on your blue and gold, bring your friends and family, and help us make some noise for the Pioneers!

Pack the stands. Wear blue and gold. Bring your Pioneer spirit.

 

 

7:00 p.m (or immediately after game)-Class of 1976 Final Meet-up (Trinity Building-BSM Fellowship Hall) 

Before Homecoming weekend comes to a close, the Class of 1976 is invited to gather one more time for a final reunion reconnect. Enjoy a relaxed opportunity to visit, share memories, catch up with longtime friends, and celebrate the relationships that began at Wayland 50 years ago.

No formal program—just good conversation, familiar faces, and one more chance to be together before saying, “Until we meet again.”

 

 

Lodging Information

Following are lodging options in Plainview and special deals, if any, that are offered :

    • Comfort Suites - 3615 Grandview Drive,  (806) 600-5188
      • King Single Bed ($139/Night; 10% Off when you mention "WBU Alumni")
    • Holiday Inn Express - 4213 W. 13 th,  (806) 296-9900

 

Homecoming is a special time for our Wayland family—full of games, gatherings, recognition ceremonies, and opportunities to reconnect with old friends and make new memories. 

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