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Innovative Tradition

At Homecoming 2013, Alumni Celebrate in Old and New Ways

By Holly Harris Wood '07 | Photos by Dan Sheehan and Luke Rutan

Agent Chris and the 007ths serenades Alumna of the Year Margo Jarvies EngbergView more photosView more photos

Student a cappella group Agent Chris and the 007ths serenades Alumna of the Year Margo Jarvies Engberg '89, owner of Pinkabella Cupcakes, at the Homecoming Student Talent Show.

Seattle Pacific University welcomed hundreds of alumni, parents, and friends January 24–26 for a medley of gatherings celebrating Homecoming 2013. From Thursday's worship service to a sweeping Falcon victory at the men's basketball game Saturday evening, the entire weekend was filled with moments of nostalgia and connection.

Alumni gathered for beloved traditions such as class reunions and the Founder's Reunion for alumni who graduated from Seattle Pacific 50 or more years ago. Alumni also enjoyed several new events. Leigh Hopkins '95, interim director of Residence Life, hosted the first-ever peer advisor reunion in Hill Hall, and called it “a fresh way to catch up with people who haven't been back to SPU in a long time.” Also new this year was a game of Ultimate Frisbee between young alumni and current students. More than 50 players took home a commemorative Frisbee and exciting plans for a rematch in 2014; students were stunned by a 15–5 loss to alumni.

The hallmark event of the weekend was Saturday's sold-out Homecoming Luncheon, which featured remarks from SPU President Dan Martin and honored five alumni whose lives reflect the mission of the University. Margo Jarvies Engberg '89 received her Alumna of the Year Award from Martin, particularly recognizing her generosity and support of children in need. John Emra '75, Sheryl Erickson Emra '76, Larry Wall '76, and Gloria Biggar Wall '79 accepted Medallion Awards.

Many other groups gathered, including the Falconettes; Centurions; and alumni in nursing, theology, business, and family and consumer sciences. The Centurions honored Mark Cederborg '73 with the Roy Swanstrom Distinguished Service Award. And former SPC Singers, hosted by Clint Pozzi '72 and Ron Edwards '70, even joined their voices for a musical reunion.