Wayland Baptist University to Celebrate 50th Homecoming

The weeklong celebration will feature fellowship activities, worship opportunities, athletic events, and special gatherings highlighting Wayland's Pioneer tradition and strong sense of community.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Wayland Baptist University is welcoming alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends back to campus for its 50th Homecoming celebration, scheduled for February 16–21 in Plainview, Texas. The weeklong event will feature a variety of fellowship activities, worship opportunities, athletic events, and special gatherings designed to celebrate the university's Pioneer tradition and strong sense of community.

Why it matters

Homecoming is a significant annual tradition for universities, allowing alumni to reconnect with their alma mater and celebrate the institution's history and community. For Wayland Baptist, this 50th Homecoming marks a major milestone in the university's history and an opportunity to showcase its enduring legacy and values.

The details

The Homecoming celebration will include a variety of events throughout the week, such as ice cream socials, library game nights, campus tours, athletic competitions, and an awards banquet. The festivities will culminate on Saturday, February 21st, with an alumni coffee mixer, additional sporting events, and the presentation of the Homecoming King and Queen.

  • Homecoming 2026 is scheduled for February 16–21 in Plainview, Texas.
  • The weeklong celebration will begin on Monday, February 16, with an Ice Cream Social in the Laney Student Activities Center from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
  • On Thursday, February 19, the Flying Queens® and Pioneer basketball teams will host the University of Science and Arts–Oklahoma at Hutcherson Center, with special Homecoming activities surrounding the games.
  • Friday, February 20, will feature a Homecoming Chapel at 11 a.m. in Harral Auditorium, as well as the Blue & Gold Awards Banquet at 6 p.m. in the Trinity Building Chapel.
  • The Homecoming celebration will conclude on Saturday, February 21, with an alumni coffee mixer, additional athletic events, and the presentation of the Homecoming King and Queen during halftime of the men's basketball game.

The players

Wayland Baptist University

A private Christian university located in Plainview, Texas, that was established in 1908 and operates campuses across Texas, Arizona, and Hawaii, as well as online.

Jeffrey Vera

The Director of Alumni Relations at Wayland Baptist University, who is overseeing the planning and execution of the 50th Homecoming celebration.

Dr. Donna Hedgepath

The President of Wayland Baptist University, who emphasizes the university's strong sense of community and shared mission.

Sara Diaz

A 2023 graduate of Wayland Baptist University who serves as the coordinator for the university's Baptist Student Ministries, which is funded by the Baptist General Convention of Texas.

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What they’re saying

“Homecoming is always a meaningful time for our alumni and friends to reconnect with Wayland and with each other. Whether you graduated recently or decades ago, we want everyone to feel welcomed back home.”

— Jeffrey Vera, Director of Alumni Relations (floydcountyrecord.com)

“There truly is no place like Wayland. Homecoming gives us the opportunity to celebrate our shared mission, reconnect across generations and thank God for the lasting impact of this university.”

— Dr. Donna Hedgepath, President (floydcountyrecord.com)

What’s next

Advance registration is encouraged for all Homecoming events, and the complete schedule of activities is available on the Wayland Baptist University website.

The takeaway

Wayland Baptist University's 50th Homecoming celebration is a testament to the university's enduring legacy and strong sense of community, as it welcomes alumni, students, faculty, and friends back to campus to reconnect, celebrate, and honor the institution's rich history and shared mission.