"Come Home for the Harvest” was the theme of the first-ever fall Andrews University Alumni Homecoming Weekend, Sept. 29–Oct. 2.

The weekend was packed full of fun things to do. A few favorite activities included the Thurs. evening People’s Choice Concert and dessert buffet at the Howard Performing Arts Center, the annual Wes Christiansen Memorial Golf Outing, Fri. evening’s International Flag Raising Ceremony on the campus mall, Sun. morning’s 5K Run/Walk and Annual Homecoming Parade.

Along with annual favorites, several new activities were added to this year’s schedule of events, including Friday’s Pizza, Pop, and Professionals! Current Andrews seniors had the chance to interface with alumni professionals in an informal question and answer session. During a special missions emphasis church service on Sabbath, 62 students stood up and committed to becoming a student missionary, and $30,200 was collected in a special offering for the missions program. Sabbath afternoon’s Harvest-Time Picnic provided a new twist to the annual salad supper. This year’s event moved outdoors to the backyard of the Alumni House where alumni got reacquainted while munching on a bounty of grapes, apples, and salads provided by local alumni.

“Having a fall Homecoming was the best!” said alumnae Nicola Johnson (B.S. ‘95) of Berrien Springs, Mich. “It was sunny during the day and crispy cool at night. The outdoor 'salad supper' had great atmosphere, with hay bales and quilts, hot cider, cocoa, and doughnuts.”

On Sat. evening, alumni, students, and community members alike enjoyed a special concert featuring the Heritage Singers and The Ambassadors in an evening of gospel favorites and African-flavored contemporary Christian music.

“We were blessed with beautiful sunny weather and warm fellowship,” noted Tami Condon, alumni director. “Many alumni have expressed an appreciation for the cozy festivities of the Harvest-Time Picnic and the overall variety of events to participate in. Numerous helpful hands went into making sure every detail was carefully orchestrated; I was especially touched by the team effort that so many individuals at Andrews put into making the weekend a success. Thank you!”

Beverly Stout, University Relations correspondent