Hannibal-LaGrange University welcomed alumni, friends, students, and community members back to campus on November 7–8 for Homecoming 2025. The two-day celebration offered meaningful opportunities to reconnect, honor tradition, and look ahead with hope and excitement.

The weekend opened on Friday with the 50 Year Club Lunch, where HLGU honored the Class of 1975 and celebrated their legacy and continued connection to the University. Guests then enjoyed the opening reception of the Alumni & Friends Art Show, followed by a spirited evening of Team Trivia that brought together alumni and students for friendly competition and fellowship.

Saturday began with the Trojan Fun Trek, giving participants a crisp fall morning to enjoy the beautiful campus scenery and nature trail. Guests then gathered for Brunch with the President and First Lady before heading to the Mabee Sports Complex for an exciting lineup of Trojan basketball games. During halftime, the campus community celebrated tradition and student leadership through the crowning of the 2025 Homecoming Court. Freshman representatives were Reagan Goebel and Micah Boeckman; sophomore representatives were Emma Henderson and Connor Slusher; junior representatives were Olivia Rawlings and Caio Lobo; and senior representatives were Jaynee Durst, Payton Seip, Blake Hall, and Rhett Simpson. Blake Hall and Payton Seip were honored as the 2025 Homecoming King and Queen.

The weekend concluded with Booster Night, featuring internationally acclaimed speaker and best-selling author John O’Leary, whose inspiring keynote—centered on themes from Soul on Fire, the forthcoming film about his life—left a lasting impact on all in attendance. The evening also included musical performances by the HLGU Concert Choir, campus updates from HLGU leadership, and a silent auction that raised over $1,000 to support student scholarships.

During Booster Night, HLGU also presented its annual Alumni Awards. The Outstanding Service Award was given to Jim and Cheryl Rawlings, the Outstanding Young Alumni Award was presented to Chris Buckles ’11, and the Distinguished Alumni Award was awarded to Travis Critten ’99.

Hannibal-LaGrange University extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who returned to campus, volunteered, gave, and celebrated with us. The University is grateful for the spirit of community that continues to define HLGU and looks forward to welcoming everyone back for Homecoming 2026.

Save the date: Homecoming 2026 is November 7!

Contact Alumni Director Lauren Youse for more information. Lauren.youse@hlg.edu or (573) 629-3126