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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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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, 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ, 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ special—and now it’s your chance to be part of the tradition!

Students interested in representing 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ as Homecoming King or Queen are invited to apply for Homecoming Royalty. Whether you’re passionate about 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ, 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ family? Stop by the Laney Student Activities Center for "Ice Cream in Laney", a fun and relaxed evening where students, alumni, friends, and the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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.

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

• For more information: /student-life/explore/campus-attractions/art-gallery.htm

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 p.m.-2 p.m.-Sip, Mix & Mingle: Dirty Sodas & 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ.

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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ family.

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

 

Thursday, Oct. 22

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

• For more information:806-291-3660

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

• For more information: /student-life/explore/campus-attractions/art-gallery.htm

 

 

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

An evening dedicated to gratitude, celebration, and the enduring spirit of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ. 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University.

This special gathering provides an opportunity to honor the individuals and partners whose dedication helps strengthen the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ community and ensures its mission continues to impact generations of Pioneers.

This is an invitation-only event.

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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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ. Come see how far we’ve come while remembering the place where so many lifelong memories began.

• Regster here:  

 

 2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.-Flying Queens Legacy: “If Not For Them” Documentary Screening

Join the Hutcherson Flying Queens Foundation for a special Homecoming celebration at the 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 screening of If Not For Them, a documentary by Brenda VanLengen honoring the trailblazers who helped shape women’s basketball.

Documentary begins at 2:30 p.m.
Location: 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Hutcherson Flying Queens Museum

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

Homecoming Week gets competitive at The Hutch! Join us at 6:00 p.m. as 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 Alumni Benefactor, Distinguished Young Alumnus, Alumnus of the Year and our Pioneers of Promise student honorees. 

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

  

Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients: 

•  

Distinguished Alumni Benefactor Award Recipients: 

•  

Distinguished Young Alumnus Award Recipient: 

•  

Alumni Educator of the Year: 

 

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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ days. Bring your pictures, bring your memories, and most importantly, come ready to reconnect with the classmates who were part of your 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ story.

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

Saturday, Oct. 24

 

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

Discover one of the cultural gems of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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.

• For more information: /student-life/explore/campus-attractions/art-gallery.htm

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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ connections before kickoff!

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

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

Get ready to turn up the energy and cheer on your 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ community, this is your chance to be part of the action and show your Pioneer pride!

 

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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ 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.

 

 

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Lodging Information

Following are lodging options in Plainview and special deals, if any, that are offered (Feb 7-10):

• 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
• President's House Bed & Breakfast, 1307 W. 6th St., 806-869-0885
• Quality Inn - 600 N I-27,  (806) 293-9454
• Super 8 - 4005 Olton Road,  (806) 293-4181
• The Hitching Post RV Park & Cabins  - 4018 N. I-27, (806) 789-3066, $40 nightly for RV site, cabins vary
• Reddy Hotel-3001 Dimmitt Rd.,806-288-8888

 

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