October 23, 2012 (Jackson) - The yearly Belhaven University Homecoming and Family Weekend saw a record attendance and was full of exciting events for alumni, students, parents and families.
Michael Dukes, Director of Development & Alumni, said “I am thankful for each of the alumni and parents who made this weekend so successful. It appeared that everyone enjoyed all the events and had a genuinely good time with one another. There was a vibrant spirit on 'the dear green hill' and it was great to be a witness to several special moments throughout the weekend!”
On Friday, the family fish fry officially kicked off the weekend and later, the artwork of Bewey Bowden was on display for an art show in the Bettye Quinn Alumni House. The Class of 1977 had their 35th reunion while the Class of 1962 celebrated their 50-year reunion. That day concluded with ice cream social and theatre performance.
On Saturday, the 8th Annual Homecoming 5k Run/Walk had a good turn out of early risers who were ready to compete and enjoy the Belhaven walking trail. Students and their parents got to spend breakfast eating and talking with the Dr. Roger Parrott, President of Belhaven University. Blazer tennis alumni took to the courts later that morning to challenge the current players on the tennis team. The Blazers Basketball Mini-Camp hosted a big crowd of kids who got to practice and interact with current players on the team.
During the Alumni Awards Luncheon, the late Evelyn Tackett was inducted into the Legacy of Learning. She will be remembered for her love of all things Belhaven. Her name was added to the list of other esteemed faculty members who have devoted twenty years or more of teaching service to Belhaven.
Stewart Edwards ('92) received the Alumnus of the Year Award, Bonnie McDonald Grubbs ('08) received the Young Alumnus of the Year Award, Thomas R. Patete ('64) was awarded the Church Service Award, Jane Everly ('85) received the Bettye Quinn Education Award and J. Thomas Grantham,Jr. ('71) was awarded the Jim Park Business Award.
The Blazer Football Team won the Homecoming game 66-10, and at halftime the Homecoming Queen and King, Rachel Eason and Terrance Stringfellow, were crowned during halftime.