Hannibal-LaGrange University celebrates homecoming weekend with alumni events, festivities

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal-LaGrange University’s homecoming weekend, held Nov. 8-9, offered alumni, students, faculty and friends an opportunity to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate.

The weekend began with the 50-Year Club Luncheon, a tradition honoring the Class of 1974 and all alumni from prior years. The luncheon included a group photo and a commemorative gift for each inductee, followed by guided campus tours via shuttle.

Friday evening featured the opening of Ruth (Ihrig) Foreman’s “A Retrospective: A Countrywoman with the Heart of an Artist” in the Hagerman Gallery within the Roland Fine Arts Center. This art exhibit celebrates the work of HLGU alumna Ruth Foreman, Class of 1949. It included remarks from the artist’s family, as well as university faculty and leadership. The evening concluded with a spirited team trivia competition led by faculty member Jordan Hosmer as quiz master.

Saturday kicked off with the annual Trojan Fun Trek, an outdoor event that welcomed pets and strollers for a morning of connection and fitness. Ten runners braved the chilly, rainy weather to enjoy the scenic trek around campus. Alumni later gathered for brunch with HLGU President Robert Matz and his wife, followed by a lively literature talk, “Happy Reading,” with lKatherine Burt.

The men’s and women’s basketball teams played an afternoon doubleheader. A student ensemble of HLGU’s talented singers performed the national anthem at both games. During halftime, Eddie Ambrose and Chloe Moore were crowned homecoming king and queen.

The grand finale, Booster Night, included a performance by singer-songwriter Andrew Peterson and the announcement of this year’s alumni awards.