Booster Night

HLGU Hosts Inspiring Booster Night to Conclude Homecoming Weekend; Save the Date for November 7, 2026

Hannibal-LaGrange University celebrated a successful Homecoming Weekend filled with alumni reunions, campus activities, and community events, culminating in the annual Booster Night on Saturday, November 9. The evening served as the grand conclusion to the weekend’s festivities and celebrated the HLGU community with fellowship, inspiration, and support for the University’s mission.

Before the main event, executive ticket holders enjoyed a private dinner in the Carroll Science Center, where they had the opportunity to take photos with keynote speaker John O’Leary and participate in an engaging question-and-answer session.

The program began with a warm welcome from HLGU Vice President Dr. Ray Carty, followed by recognition of veterans and appreciation for the evening’s generous sponsors. The presenting sponsor was HNB Bank, with Benson Financial Group serving as the signature sponsor, and Missouri Baptist Convention and GLS Insurance as table sponsors.

Director of Alumni Services Lauren Youse presented this year’s alumni awards, honoring Jim and Cheryl Rawlings with the Outstanding Service Award, Chris Buckles (Class of 2011) with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award, and Travis Critten (Class of 1999) with the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Special music directed by Elaine Carty featured the HLGU Concert Choir performing “Soul on Fire” and “Amazing Grace.” Guests also enjoyed a university update from HLGU President Dr. Robert Matz, who shared recent successes and ongoing campus improvements.

During intermission, attendees enjoyed dessert and hot cider as the silent auction concluded, raising more than $1,000 in support of HLGU student scholarships.

The evening’s keynote address was delivered by John O’Leary, who shared his remarkable story of surviving severe burns as a child and the role sportscaster Jack Buck played in giving him hope by asking, “What more can I do?” O’Leary challenged the audience to consider the same question in their own lives. His humor and heartfelt message deeply inspired all in attendance.

Following O’Leary’s keynote, Dr. Matz invited guests to invest in Hannibal-LaGrange University and its mission to provide a Christ-centered education. The event concluded with the singing of the HLGU Alma Mater, led by the Concert Choir, and a benediction from Dr. Vinita Henry.

Booster Night 2025 was a wonderful evening of encouragement, celebration, and community spirit in support of HLGU students, and a fitting close to a successful Homecoming Weekend.

Hannibal-LaGrange University invites alumni and friends to save the date for next year’s Booster Night on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

For questions, contact Lauren Youse at (573) 629-3126 or lauren.youse@hlg.edu

Booster Banquet Archives

• 2024 Andrew Peterson
• 2023 Dr. Larry Lewis and Dr. Woodrow Burt
• 2022 Dr. Robert Matz
• 2021 Ken Bevel
• 2020 Larry Lewis, Paul Brown, Woodrow Burt

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