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PLAINVIEW, TX — 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University plans to recognize outstanding alumni during the Blue & Gold Awards Banquet at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, in the Trinity Building sanctuary as part of Homecoming 2026.

This year’s honorees include Cassie Mogg, Distinguished Alumna; Carley Hardage Hunt, Distinguished Young Alumna; Kenneth Walker, Alumni Educator of the Year; and Noe and Irma Valles, Alumni Benefactors.

Mogg, a healthcare executive and community leader, serves as Chief Executive Officer of Covenant Health Plainview. Since beginning her career there in 2008, she has advanced through key leadership roles, helping expand healthcare services and strengthen quality care across rural West Texas. A 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ MBA graduate, she is recognized for servant leadership and a commitment to compassionate, faith-informed healthcare.

Hunt, a physical therapist and assistant professor of exercise and sport science at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ, combines clinical experience with a passion for mentoring future healthcare professionals. Her work emphasizes hands-on learning, evidence-based practice and community service, reflecting her dedication to preparing students for meaningful careers in sports medicine and rehabilitation.

Walker serves as Director of Bands at Estacado High School and Dunbar College Preparatory Academy in Lubbock, where he has built a reputation for strengthening music programs, increasing student participation and achieving competitive success. A 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ music education graduate, he is widely respected as a clinician and mentor who uses music education to teach discipline, teamwork and lifelong skills.

Noe and Irma Valles are longtime supporters of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ whose generosity has significantly advanced scholarship opportunities, particularly for first-generation college students. Noe, an attorney and 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ graduate, helped lead major fundraising efforts supporting the First-Generation Scholarship initiative, while both have remained active advocates for higher education and community service. Their philanthropy reflects a deep commitment to helping future students access the transformative opportunities they experienced at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ.

Alumni planning to attend the banquet need to RSVP at by 3 p.m., Friday, Feb. 13. Attendees may also register for Homecoming activities at and find the full schedule at /alumni-and-friends/homecoming.htm.

“These individuals represent the very best of 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ,” said Jeffrey Vera, Director of Alumni Relations. “Their accomplishments and service reflect the values our university strives to instill in every student.”

Homecoming week runs Feb. 16–21 and includes student activities, athletic events, worship gatherings, campus tours and alumni fellowship opportunities.

Dr. Donna Hedgepath, University President, said honoring alumni is an important part of the celebration.

“Our alumni carry 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s mission into their communities every day,” she said. “Recognizing their impact reminds us why Christian higher education continues to matter.”