- HOMECOMING EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
The information listed below is inclusive of all events and activities listed in the official brochure, plus additional events and activities sponsored by various campus organizations and groups.
Getting Started
Registration Headquarters and Nostalgia Room
Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources
Stop by the Christopher Center to register and start your Homecoming and Reunion Weekend experience by picking up event passes and additional information.
Reminisce in the Community Room with Doering ’53, former university archivist, and Judy Miller ’70, special collections librarian and assistant professor of library services. Browse yearbooks, Torches and other memorabilia, and take in multimedia historical displays. This area is an excellent place to meet up with classmates.Golf Cars
Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sunday, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Golf cars will be on hand to provide transportation to campus locations for those needing assistance. Check in at the table in front of the Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources, where a member of the Student Alumni Association will be happy to assist you. From other locations on campus, you may call Registration Headquarters at 219.464.5142 or 800.833.6792, ext. 23, to request a pick-up.Reunion Gathering Rooms
Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources
Meet with classmates throughout the day, reminisce about the bygone days, and share your Valpo memorabilia.
- 50th Reunion Class (1959) - Board of Directors Room
- 25th Reunion Class (1984) - Community Room
Homecoming Mums
The Student Alumni Association carries on this tradition by offering Homecoming mums for sale. Purchase yours on the attached registration form and pick it up at Registration Headquarters during registration hours, Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.2009 VUAA Christmas Ornament
Each year, the VU Alumni Association debuts its annual Christmas ornament during Homecoming and Reunion Weekend. In recognition of the Chapel of the Resurrection’s 50th anniversary, the 2009 VUAA ornament will feature the Chapel Angel – one of the most recognizable images from the stained glass windows. Reserve yours on the attached registration form and pick it up at Registration Headquarters on Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., or Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Available ornaments from some previous years also may be purchased at Registration Headquarters.University Archives
Friday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources, Room 300
Stop by the University Archives and reminisce about Valpo’s past as you browse through historic memorabilia.University Book Center
Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sunday, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Harre Union
Spend $50 on clothing and gift items and receive a 20 percent discount.Theatre Performance
Thursday and Friday, 8 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m.
VU Center for the Arts, Studio Theatre
“Fuddy Meers,” an American play by David Lindsay-Abaire, is the story of an amnesiac who awakens each morning as a blank slate on which her husband and teenage son must imprint the facts of her life. Directed by Lee F. Orchard, chair of the department of theatre. Tickets are required and may be purchased in advance by calling the VU Box Office at 219.464.5162. A limited number of tickets may be available the day of the performance. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for non-VU students and senior citizens 62 and older. VU student, faculty and staff tickets are free with VU identification.Brauer Museum of Art
VU Center for the Arts
"Selections from the Robert and Ellen Haan Collection of Historic Indiana Art" and "Left Behind: Native American Artifacts from the Robert Schoon Collection" will be displayed. Admission is free.Museum Hours:
Friday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Noon – 5 p.m.
Guided Tours:
Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 8
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.Christ College Homecoming Symposium: A Christ College Alumni PanelMueller Hall, Refectory8 p.m.“America’s Next Top Model” SpeakersHarre Union, BallroomJoanie Dodds and Clark Gilmer, past contestants from the popular television show, will be on campus to speak. Enjoy a student fashion show as well as a “meet and greet.” Sponsored by Union Board.
Friday, Oct. 9
Special Reunion Sessions and Tours
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Pre-registration is preferred for all of the following events, except the Prayer Service. Some events offer several available attendance times. Space is limited, so register early.10 a.m., 1:45 p.m., 3 p.m.
Campus Tours
Enjoy a ride through campus and take in all the changes and progress since your time at Valpo. See the awardwinning Harre Union and Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources, the beloved Chapel of the Resurrection, and more. Tours will depart from the turnaround between the union and the chapel.10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Harre Union “Behind the Scenes"
Harre Union, Lobby
Larry Mosher, director of the Harre Union, will share details about the newest building on campus, as student and staff guides show you through the award-winning facility.10 a.m.
Chapel of the Resurrection 50th Anniversary Tour
Chapel of the Resurrection
Fifty years ago the chapel was dedicated and forever changed the look and feel of the VU campus. Take a tour led by Joseph Cunningham, university pastor and dean of the Chapel of the Resurrection. Tour departs from the chapel narthex.10 a.m.
Dance Lesson
Harre Union, Ballroom C
Students from VU Ballroom will offer a free lesson in ballroom dance. All ages and skill levels welcome.11:15 a.m.
Prayer Service
Chapel of the Resurrection
Attend chapel break with students and members of the VU community.1:45 p.m.
Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources Tour
Christopher Center for Library and Information Resources
Led by Rick AmRhein, dean of library services, and staff. Discover all that this library has to offer to today’s Valpo students. Tour departs from the Community Room.1:45 p.m.
Lutheranism Today
Mueller Hall, Refectory
Valparaiso University is an independent Lutheran university. But what does this mean? What is “Lutheran identity” in today’s world? How does VU understand its Lutheran character and how are Lutheran values expressed and lived out on campus? Valpo staff will discuss these questions and others.3 p.m.
Cooking Demonstration With Valpo Executive Chef
Harre Union, Multicultural and International Programs Suite
Meet VU executive chef John Reid. Watch and sample as he prepares a new menu item sure to please students this semester. Find out about the meal options students have today and the new union’s centralized dining system.Noon – 1:30 p.m.President’s LuncheonVU Center for the Arts Guild-Lobby CommonsEnjoy this opportunity to dine with Mark A. Heckler, Valparaiso University’s 18th president. Tables will be reserved for the 50th and 25th reunion classes. Preregistration required, $10 per person.Noon – 4 p.m.Graduate School Open HouseHarre Union, Ballroom A3 p.m. – 4 p.m.Distinguished Chemistry Alumnus Presentation“The Promise of Solar Energy”Neils Science Center, Room 234Presented by John Golbeck ’71, a 2009 recipient of the VU Alumni Association Distinguished Alumnus Award.
3:20 p.m.Physics and Astronomy ColloquiumNeils Science Center, Room 224Ron Kneusel ’88 will speak on “The Physics of Medical Imaging.” Refreshments available at 3:05 p.m.4 p.m.28th Annual Huegli Lecture and ReceptionAberdeen Manor Ballroom and Event Center, 216 Ballantrae, ValparaisoSpeaker: Christoffer Grunamann, John R. Eckrich University Professor in Religion and the Heating Arts4 p.m.Women’s SoccerCrusaders vs. Indiana State UniversityEastgate FieldTickets may be purchased at the gate. $5 for adults, $3 for youth ages 12 to 18, and free for children age 11 and under. VU students, faculty and staff admitted free with VU identification.4 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.Kretzmann Society ReceptionVU Center for the Arts, Guild-Lobby CommonsBy invitation only.5:30 p.m.Coronation, Barbecue and ConcertHarre Union, Woiwod PatioWitness the crowning of VU’s Homecoming King and Queen. Barbecue and concert by A Kidnap In Color is open to all alumni. Concert will begin at 6 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.Class of 1959 and the Brown & Gold Club ReceptionHarre Union, Ballrooms B and CMembers of the class of 1959 will be inducted into the Brown & Gold Club. Gather for hors d’oeuvres and fellowship. Pre-registration required.7 p.m.Hymn SingChapel of the Resurrection7 p.m. – 10 p.m.25th Reunion ReceptionCasa Del Roma, Ballroom712 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso
Members of the class of 1984 are invited to gather for hors d’oeuvres and fellowship. Cash bar available. Pre-registration required.7:30 - 8:15 p.m.
Astronomy with the Hubble Space Telescope
Neils Science Center, Room 224
Lecture presented by Bruce Hrivnak, professor of physics and astronomy.8 p.m. – 11 p.m.Sigma Chi Alumni DinnerBuffalo Wild Wings, 212 E. LincolnwayFor information contact Michael Licitra ’10 at michael.licitra@valpo.edu or 630.992.9295.8:30 p.m.FireworksResurrection MeadowBring your blanket or lawn chair and witness a spectacular firework show sponsored by Union Board.8:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.Astronomical Observatory Open HouseLocated behind Meier Hall and Gellersen CenterHosted by Bruce Hrivnak, professor of physics and astronomy. In the event of cloudy or inclement weather, an indoor planetarium show will be featured in Neils Science Center, Room 224. Call 219.464.5202 or visit physics.valpo.edu/astronomy/obsOpenHouse.html after 5 p.m. that evening to ensure that the observatory is open.9 p.m.Homecoming and Reunion Weekend BINGO!Harre Union, Ballrooms A and BSponsored by the Student Alumni Association.Supplies provided and prizes awarded. Donations ($2) taken at the door.
Saturday, Oct. 10
6 a.m. – 7:30 a.m.Sigma Chi Sunrise FootballEastgate FieldFor information contact Michael Licitra ’10 at michael.licitra@valpo.edu or 630.992.9295.8:30 a.m.Honors BreakfastHarre Union, BallroomBy invitation only.9:30 a.m.Admission Office Campus Mini-Visit ProgramKretzmann Hall, Board RoomHigh school students and their families will learn about Valparaiso University from an admission staff member, then head out at 10 a.m. for a campus tour. Complimentary football game tickets are included. Space is limited, so please register early. R.S.V.P. to the admission office at 888.468.2576 (toll free) or 219.464.5011.9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.Biology, Chemistry, and Physics Open HouseNeils Science Center, Lobby
9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.Fitness Center Open House and TourFitness CenterStop by the building formerly occupied by the University Book Center and see the latest addition to campus – a brand-new fitness center for the campus community. A guided tour will take place at 10 a.m.
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.Sigma Alpha Iota Alumnae BrunchVU Center for the Arts, Bauer HallFor information contact alissa.carlson@valpo.edu.9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.Kappa Delta ReceptionScheele Hall, Chapter Room
9:30 a.m – 11:30 a.m.Sigma Chi Grill and Tailgate404 Monroe St.For information contact Michael Licitra ’10 at michael.licitra@valpo.edu or 630.992.9295.9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.CBA Silent AuctionIn front of Urschel Hall
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.College of Nursing Virtual Nursing Learning Center Open HouseLeBien Hall, Room 107Janet Brown, dean of the college of nursing, and students will demonstrate the SimBaby, SimMan, and other functions of simulation technology in nursing education.
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.Department of Sociology and Criminology Open HouseHarre Union, Alumni RoomCoffee and doughnuts will be served. For information, contact the department chair at peter.venturelli@valpo.edu.
10 a.m. – NoonCareer Center Open HouseHarre Union, Career CenterCome see the Career Center’s new location, enjoy refreshments, and pick up information on how alumni can help students.10 a.m. - 11 a.m.Department of Mathematics and Computer Science GatheringGellersen Center, Room 12410:30 a.m. – NoonOffice of Multicultural Programs Reunion Pancake BrunchHarre Union, Office of International and Multicultural Programs Suite, Multipurpose RoomThe Office of Multicultural Programs (OMP) invites alumni involved with OMP, AAA, BSO, LIVE, MANA, the VU Black Alumni Association, and friends and supporters of OMP for a pancake brunch. $5 per person will support the VU Alumni Association Book Assistance Program. To register contact amy.cook@valpo.edu or call 219.464.6769.11 a.m. – 1 p.m.Oktoberfest!Huegli Lawn, TentThis brand-new event draws on the European background of VU’s Lutheran heritage and turns it into a celebration unlike anything Homecoming and Reunion Weekend has seen before. Enjoy traditional German food, live music from oom-pah band The Deutsch- Meisters, free polka lessons from student members of VU Ballroom, kringles for sale by the VU Guild, snow cones offered by Union Board, a “Kinder-Eck” (children’s corner) hosted by the German Club, and root beer straight from the bottle. Tables will be reserved for members of the 50th, 25th, and 10th reunion classes.11 a.m.Alumni Choir RehearsalChapel of the Resurrection
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.College of Engineering Alumni and Friends PicnicGellersen Center, West Side
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.Gamma Phi 50th Reunion LuncheonHuegli Hall, Lumina RoomAll alumni from the 50th anniversary pledge class and graduating class are invited. For information contact Dot (Allwardt ’60) Nuechterlein at vudot@comcast.net.
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.International Food BazaarHarre Union, Southwest LawnAmerican and international foods prepared by students will be available for purchase. Sponsored by VISA.11 a.m. - 1 p.m.90th Anniversary Alpha Xi Epsilon Alumni Social GatheringCasa Del Roma712 Calumet Ave., ValparaisoFood is provided with cash bar available. Spouses, children and guests are welcome to attend. For more information contact Deena (Butterfield '96) Lawley at deenabutterfield@netscape.net.11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Homecoming BBQ Luncheon Sponsored by the VU College of Business Administration
Tent in front of Urschel Hall
11:30 a.m.
Sigma Phi Epsilon Pig Roast
705 Mound St.NoonDepartment of Education TentMiller HallStop by before, during, or after the football game for some light refreshments and to learn about the latest happenings in the department. For information contact the department of education at 219.464.5077.
NoonSigma Phi Epsilon Alumni Meeting705 Mound St.Noon to 2 p.m.Art Club Face Painting and Sidewalk ChalkingBetween the Harre Union and the VU Center for the ArtsMaterials will be provided. All alumni, friends and children welcome.1 p.m.FootballCrusaders vs. University of San DiegoBrown FieldTickets are $7 and may be purchased at the gate. Children 10 and under are free. All tickets are general admission. VU students, faculty and staff admitted freewith VU identification.1 p.m. – 4 p.m.Gamma Phi Beta and Gamma Phi Open HouseHuegli Hall, Lounge2 p.m.Phi Kappa Psi House Corporation Meeting801 Mound St.3 p.m. – 5 p.m.Young Alumni SoireePepe’s Mexican Restaurant1058 S. State Road 2, ValparaisoMembers of the classes of 1999 through 2009 are invited to catch up over complimentary appetizers. Cash bar available. Pre-registration preferred.3 p.m. – 5 p.m.Christ College Alumni ReceptionMueller Hall, Commons
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.Department of Communication Open HouseSchnabel Hall, Lobby
3 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.Valpo Admission Network Social HourMaria Elena’s454 S. Greenwich St.Members of the VAN are invited to join Barb Lieske, director, and her assistants for hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Relax after the football game, meet other volunteers from around the country, and share stories about your VAN activities from the past year. R.S.V.P. to admissions.network@valpo.edu.
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.Fitness Center Open House and TourFitness CenterStop by the building formerly occupied by the University Book Center and see the latest addition to campus – a brand new fitness center for the campus community. A guided tour will take place at 3:30 p.m.4 p.m.Choral ConcertChapel of the ResurrectionVU’s Chorale and Men’s Chorus, directed by Christopher M. Cock, Phyllis and Richard Duesenberg chair in Lutheran music, will perform along with the Women’s Chorus, directed by Maura Janton Cock, adjunct instructor in music. Tickets are required and may be purchased on the attached form. $15 for adults, $10 for non-VU students and senior citizens 62 and older. VU students, faculty and staff admitted free with VU identification.4 p.m.Men’s Tennis Alumni TournamentValparaiso University Tennis ComplexFor information contact coach Jim Daugherty at 219.464.5257.4 to 6 p.m.Phi Kappa Psi 2nd Annual Amici Reception & Alumni/Undergraduate Photo801 Mound St.House tours will be offered. Cocktails and appetizers will be provided. Dress is casual. Guests are encouraged to attend. Photo of all brothers in attendance will be taken between 5 and 5:30 p.m.6 p.m.Reunion Celebrations with Class PhotosPhotos of reunion classes will be taken and available for ordering. Cost includes dinner and entertainment. Dinner will be served at 7 p.m. Casual attire. Pre-registration required. See below for specific information for your class reunion celebration.Classes of 1959, 1964, 1969, and the Brown & Gold Club (’58 and prior)
Harre Union, Ballroom
Featuring the VU Faculty Jazz Trio. $25 per person.
Photo times:
50th – 6:30 p.m.
Brown & Gold – 6:45 p.m.
40th and 45th – immediately following dinnerClasses of 1974, 1979, 1984, 1989, and 1994
Old Town Banquet Center, South Suite
711 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso
Members of the class of 1984 will receive a 25th Reunion commemorative pin. $25 per person.
Photo times:
25th – 6:30 p.m.
30th – 6:45 p.m.
15th, 20th, 35th – immediately following dinnerClasses of 2004 and 1999
Casa Del Roma, Ballroom
712 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso
$20 per person. Casa Del Roma is located just behind Northside Tap Bar & Grill.
Photo times:
10th – 6:30 p.m.
5th – 6:45 p.m.6 p.m. – 11 p.m.St. Teresa of Avila 35th Anniversary CelebrationPorter County Expo Center215 E. Division Rd.Celebrate St. Teresa’s 35th year with dinner and dancing at this 1970s-themed bash. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for VU students or children ages 5 to 12. Cash bar. For tickets or more information, contact Janet Keller, parish life chairperson, at 219.464.4042.7:30 p.m.Valparaiso University Symphony OrchestraChapel of the ResurrectionConducted by Dennis Friesen-Carper, Frederick A. and Mazie N. Reddel professor of music, and featuring Joseph Bognar ’94, associate professor of music, on piano. Tickets are required and may be purchased on the attached form. $15 for adults, $10 for non- VU students and senior citizens 62 years of age and older. VU students, faculty and staff admitted free with VU identification.9 p.m.Sigma Phi Epsilon Open RitualLocation TBA9 p.m. to 1 a.m.Phi Kappa Psi Alumni Get TogetherDuffy's Place1154 Axe Ave.
Sunday, Oct. 11
8:30 a.m.Homecoming Breakfast and Alumni Association Annual MeetingChristopher Center for Library and Information Resources,Community RoomTables will be reserved for the Brown &Gold Club and the 50th and 25th reunion classes. Reunion class procession to follow. Pre-registration required. $8 per person.9:30 a.m.Class ProcessionChristopher Center for Library and Information ResourcesBrown & Gold, 50th and 25th reunion classes will process to the worship service.10 a.m.Worship Service and Awards PresentationChapel of the ResurrectionValparaiso University Alumni Association award recipients will be honored and a moment of remembrance will be observed for alumni who are no longer with us.12:30 p.m.Men’s SoccerCrusaders vs. Butler UniversityBrown FieldTickets may be purchased at the gate. $5 for adults, $3 for youth ages 12 to 18, and free for children age 11 and under. VU students, faculty and staff admitted free with VU identification.1:30 p.m.Dancing With the VU StarsHarre Union, BallroomIn VU’s own version of the popular television show, some of campus’ most familiar faces have undergone weeks of training and will appear with students from VU Ballroom for some competition on the dance floor. Admission fees will be collected at the door. $5 for anyone with a VU identification card or for alumni wearing official Homecoming and Reunion Weekend nametags. All others, $7. Half of all proceeds will go to charity.3 p.m.Organ RecitalChapel of the ResurrectionMartin Jean, professor of organ at Yale University and former VU organist, will perform. Tickets are required and may be purchased on the attached form. $15 for adults, $10 for non-VU students and senior citizens 62 years of age and older. VU students, faculty and staff admitted free with VU identification.3 p.m.Women’s SoccerCrusaders vs. University of Detroit MercyEastgate FieldTickets may be purchased at the gate, and are $5 for adults, $3 for youth ages 12 to 18, and free for children age 11 and under. VU students, faculty and staff admitted free with VU identification.