Homecoming: Alumni, Friends and Family Weekend

Save the date for a weekend of connection and celebration! From campus events and performances to games and meals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We look forward to welcoming alumni, friends and families back to campus for this special time together.
Friday, November 14
10 a.m. | Inauguration – Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Auditorium
Bethel University will celebrate the inauguration of its 9th president, Dr. Dee McDonald, in a formal event that honors the past while looking to the future.
11:30 a.m. | Luncheon – Wiekamp Athletic Center – Goodman Gymnasium (by invitation only)
This event will be held immediately following the inauguration and include a meal and light programming for special guests, by invitation only.
1 p.m. | Historical Presentation – Taylor Memorial Log Chapel
Join Bethel Trustee and former Vice President Dennis Engbrecht for an engaging presentation about Bethel’s early years and the people, faith and vision that helped shape our university.
1:30 p.m. | Campus Tours – Meet at the Van & Jean Gates Welcome Center
Discover Bethel’s campus on a guided tour led by student ambassadors. See key spaces and experience the community firsthand.
2 p.m. | Afternoon Tea – Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Rotunda
This event will be held in the Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Rotunda and will be a meet-and-greet style “high tea,” including tea and delectable refreshments. Alumni, friends, faculty and staff are encouraged to attend this FREE event!
5 p.m. | “Into the Woods” Character Dinner and Show – Dining Commons (ticketed)
Enjoy dinner with “Into the Woods” characters before the evening performance. Includes Chicken Finger Friday meal and show tickets. Ticket sales coming soon.
7 p.m. | Musical “Into the Woods” – Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Auditorium (ticketed)
“Into the Woods”, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, follows Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood, and a Baker and his Wife as they journey into the forest to make their wishes come true. But happily ever after doesn’t come without a price. With rich music, sharp wit and unexpected twists, this Tony Award-winning classic explores what happens after “once upon a time.” Purchase tickets*
*Do not purchase tickets separately if you plan to attend the Character Dinner and Show.
Saturday, November 15
12 p.m. | Women’s Basketball – Wiekamp Athletic Center – Gates Gymnasium
Cheer on the Lady Pilots as they take on Rochester Christian University in Gates Gymnasium.
1 p.m. | Musical – “Into the Woods” – Everest-Rohrer Fine Arts Center – Auditorium (ticketed)
“Into the Woods”, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, follows Cinderella, Jack, Little Red Riding Hood, and a Baker and his Wife as they journey into the forest to make their wishes come true. But happily ever after doesn’t come without a price. With rich music, sharp wit and unexpected twists, this Tony Award-winning classic explores what happens after “once upon a time.” Purchase tickets
2 p.m. | Men’s Basketball – Wiekamp Athletic Center – Gates Gymnasium
Cheer on the Pilots as they take on Saint Xavier University (Ill.) in Gates Gymnasium.


