Eagles Fly Home
Join us for a weekend of memories, camaraderie and Eagle pride. Whether you’re returning to relive your glory days or making new memories, Homecoming 2024 promises to be a celebration like no other. Mark your calendars now and follow us on social to stay up to date on the event planning and reunion updates.
Schedule of Events
Thursday, October 10
Friday, October 11
Saturday, October 12
Sunday, October 13
Thursday, October 10
Career Connections Fair
11 a.m.-4 p.m. Funkhouser Center
The Career Connections Fair is an opportunity for BC students to network with alumni and employers to explore potential majors, careers, and industries while learning how their academic and personal interests can lead to successful careers. Register now »
Friday, October 11
Activities listed with a ⭐ are part of the Class of 1974’s 50th Reunion.
Eagles Golf Classic
8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Lakeview Golf Club; 4101 Shen Lake Drive, Harrisonburg
Event and registration details
Join the excitement on the green with us for the annual Eagles Golf Classic on Friday, October 11, 2024! This fundraiser is a four-player captain’s choice format with two sessions beginning at 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Register now »
⭐ Class of 1974 Registration
3-4 p.m. John Kenny Forrer Learning Commons, Entrance
Full event details
Kick off Homecoming by stopping by the Forrer Learning Commons
(formerly Alexander Mack Library) to check-in (or register) and pick up your 50th Reunion
Memory Book.
⭐ Class of 1974 Campus Tour
4-5:30 p.m. John Kenny Forrer Learning Commons, Entrance
Full event details
See what’s new on campus! Departs from the Forrer Learning Commons and ends at Bowman Hall where your class will celebrate their class gift and dedication of the newly renovated Bowman Hall.
5K Run/1 mile Walk
5 p.m. Nininger Hall or Virtual
Event and registration details
Join the 5k run/1-mile walk through the town of Bridgewater or participate virtually (October 1-12) in your own community. Sign up today!
Bowman Hall Dedication
5:30-6:30 p.m. Bowman Hall Steps
Full event details
Join President Bushman, the Class of 1974, special guests and the Screamin’ Eagle Marching Band as we dedicate and open the newly renovated Bowman Hall. Self-guided tours of Bowman will be available immediately after the dedication and on Saturday, October 12 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
⭐ Class of 1974 Gift Presentation
6-6:30 p.m.
Bowman Hall Steps
Full event details
The Class of 1974 will be treated to a special tour of Bowman Hall following the class gift presentation.
Field Hockey vs. Washington & Lee
6 p.m. Jopson Athletic Complex
Full event details
Catch the action as Bridgewater College faces off against Washington and Lee in field hockey. Come support the Eagles as they compete for victory! The game is free and open to the public.
Connections Campaign Walking Tour
6-8 p.m. Starting at Bowman Hall
Full event details
Following the dedication of Bowman Hall, witness the impact of the Connections Campaign. Take a self-guided walking tour and learn about the Three Pillars (Eagle Fund, Teaching and Learning and Capital) of the Connections Campaign for Bridgewater College.
Women’s Lacrosse Alumni Gathering
6-9 p.m. Wampler President’s Suite
Full event details
Join the women’s lacrosse coaching staff and current members while enjoying light apps. Then head over to Jopson Field and watch the Field Hockey game beginning at 6 p.m. followed by Men’s Lacrosse Alumni game beginning at 8:30 p.m.
⭐ Class of 1974 Reception
6:30-8 p.m. Forrer Learning Commons, Class of 1969 Great Room
Full event details
Mix and mingle with classmates while enjoying drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Cost: Beer tickets $3 and wine tickets $5 (preorder up to two tickets per person). Additional drink tickets available for purchase during the event.
Bonfire and Fireworks
8:30 p.m. Dillon Lawn
Full event details
Join us for a Homecoming celebration with a festive bonfire and dazzling fireworks display! Enjoy a night of community, fun, and school spirit as we gather around the flames and watch the sky light up in a spectacular show. Don’t miss this highlight of Homecoming.
Men’s Lacrosse Alumni Game
8:30-10:30 p.m. Jopson Athletic Complex
Full event details
Dust off your sticks and get your Homecoming weekend started off right with some action on your old stomping grounds. All Men’s Lacrosse are invited to participate or watch and cheer from the stands.
Saturday, October 12
Activities listed with a ⭐ are part of the Class of 1974’s 50th Reunion.
BCAA Breakfast
9-10 a.m.
President’s House
Full event details
All current and former BCAA members and past presidents are invited to a breakfast with Dr. Bushman to kick off Homecoming Weekend. This event is by invitation only.
Homecoming Check-In and Alumni Information
10 a.m.-1 p.m. John Kenny Forrer Learning Commons, Entrance
Full event details
Register for reunions and other events, pick up your pre-registration tickets and update your contact information.
Alumni Jazz Band
10-11:30 a.m. Carter Center Concert for Worship
Full event details
All Jazz Alumni will be rehearsing for the Jazz Concert at 7:30 p.m. Pre-registration required; unfortunately, no walk-ups permitted. Attire: All Black or BC Jazz shirt.
Register within Homecoming registration.
NOTE: Registration is required for both the Jazz Band and Screamin’ Eagles band events.
G.O.L.D. Event: Muffins and Mimosas
10-11:30 a.m. Coaches Corner
Full event details
Rain Location: Wampler President’s Suite
Calling all graduates of the last decade! Celebrate your G.O.L.D. status by joining us to start off your Homecoming festivities with muffins and mimosas. Special guests in attendance include: Stephanie Flamini (Head Women’s Basketball Coach), Lance Harden (Cross Country Coach), Mike Maczko (NEW Head Men’s Basketball Coach), and Emily Bagby Witzke ‘20 (Assistant Field Hockey Coach). Cost: $10 per person.
⭐ Class of 1974 Continental Breakfast
10:30-11:15 a.m. Kline Campus Center Lobby
Full event details
Join your classmates for a light breakfast as you prepare for your reunion festivities. $10/person
Women’s Volleyball vs. Marymount
11 a.m. Nininger Hall
Full event details
Come cheer on the Eagles and then stay for the alumni tailgate on Mapp Field.
Self-Guided Tour of Bowman Hall
11 a.m.-2 p.m. Bowman Hall
Full event details
Come see this extraordinary centerpiece of collaborative learning. Enjoy a self-guided tour of Bowman Hall; follow the map dots (red star balloons) as you tour Bowman Hall. Those will mobility issues will enter through the front doors and follow directional signage to the elevator.
Reunion Photos
Beginning at 11 a.m. Classes ending in 4’s meet at Cole Hall; Classes ending in 9’s at FLC
Schedule Listed Below
*Rain Location: Inside steps of Cole Hall
Classes ending in 4’s will meet at Cole Hall steps.
11 a.m.-1944
11:10 a.m.-1954
11:20 a.m.-1964
11:30 a.m.-1984
11:50 a.m.-1994
Noon-2004
12:20 p.m.-2014
12:30 p.m.-2024
Classes ending in 9’s will meet at Forrer Learning Commons (formerly Alexander Mack Library) steps.
11 a.m.-1949
11:10 a.m.-1959
11:20 a.m.-1969
11:30 a.m.-1979
11:50 a.m.-1989
Noon-1999
12:20 p.m.-2009
12:30 p.m.-2019
Homecoming Tailgate
11 a.m. Mapp Field
Full event details
Connect with fellow alumni, students, and fans while gearing up to cheer on the Eagles! Tailgating closes one hour after the football game ends. Please note a game ticket is required for admission to Mapp Field.
Graduate School Tailgate
11 a.m. Mapp Field Spot 11 & 12
Full event details
Current graduate students and alumni of any of Bridgewater College master’s degree programs are invited to the Graduate School Homecoming Tailgate. Dr. Pierson and other faculty will be on hand to visit. Enjoy Chick-fil-A nuggets, fruit, cookies and beverages (beer and nonalcoholic drinks) before and during the game. Please note a game ticket is required to enter Mapp Field.
Homecoming Festival
11 a.m.-2 p.m. Campus Mall
Full event details
Join the BC community for carnival games, photo booth, spirit giveaways, fun food (PrePopsterous Popcorn, Smiley’s Ice Cream, Strite’s Donuts, Parkhurst Wings), a petting zoo and much more. All activities on the Mall are free and open to all alumni, families and students.
Men’s Lacrosse Alumni Tailgate
11 a.m.-2 p.m. Mapp Field
Full event details
Men’s Lacrosse alumni are invited to tailgate with coach Mic Grant prior to the Homecoming game. Beverages and light snacks provided. Please note a game ticket is required to enter Mapp Field.
Reunion Row
11 a.m.-4 p.m. Mapp Field, Reunion Row
Full event details
BC’s newest tradition! All classes in reunion are invited to the Reunion Row tent. Enjoy a delicious catered lunch from Hank’s BBQ and drinks from Brothers Craft Brewing and Bluestone Vineyard. Game ticket required for entry. Courtesy shuttles depart from the Forrer Learning Commons. Please note a game ticket is required for admission to Mapp Field.
Donuts and Departments
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Campus Mall Tent
Full event details
Catch up with faculty from various departments while enjoying complimentary Strite’s donuts and drinks provided by Sugar and Bean Café.
⭐Class of 1974 Ripples Induction & Reunion Photo
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cole Hall
Full event details
We invite you to a special induction ceremony celebrating alumni who have reached the milestone of 50 years since graduation. The Class of 1974 reunion photo will take place immediately following on the steps inside Cole Hall. Pictures available for purchase: $10.
Engineering Reception and Tours of McKinney
12:30-1:30 p.m. McKinney 2nd Floor
Full event details
Join the School of Natural Sciences faculty for an interactive experience of BC’s new engineering program.
Women’s Volleyball Alumni Tailgate
12-4 p.m. Mapp Field, Spot 10
Full event details
All Volleyball alumni are invited to a tailgate with Coach Harris and the volleyball team. Enjoy refreshments from Hank’s BBQ along with beer and wine. Please note a game ticket is required for admission to Mapp Field.
Ripples Luncheon
12:30 p.m. Boitnott Room, Kline Campus Center
Full event details
Reconnect with classmates who graduated in 1973 and earlier at this informative and enjoyable luncheon. Hear from Dr. Barbara Long ‘88, Dean of the Nolen School of Business and Professional Studies. Cost: $15
Women’s Soccer vs. Shenandoah
1 p.m. Soccer Complex
Full event details
Support women’s soccer as they take on Shenandoah University. Game is free and open to the public.
Screamin’ Eagles Alumni Band
1:30 p.m. Carter Center for Worship and Music, Room 1
Full event details
All members of the Screamin’ Eagles alumni band are invited to perform in the stands during the Homecoming game. Members are invited to meet Dr. Christine Carrillo in the band room. Music will be emailed upon registration. Attire: BC gear or Marching/Pep band t-shirt.
NOTE: Registration is required for both the Jazz Band and Screamin’ Eagles band events.
Football: BC vs. Averett
2 p.m. Jopson Athletic Complex
Full event details
Pre-ordered football tickets may be picked up at registration on Saturday. Tickets may also be purchased at the gate on game day (while supplies last). No pets or umbrellas allowed in the stadium. $10 per person / $8 senior ticket / $6 children 6-12 / 5 and under FREE. All sales final.
Classes in reunion can join Reunion Row beginning at 11 a.m. on Mapp Field complete with your favorite tailgate food and drinks. Football ticket will allow you and your guest entry onto Mapp Field. Mapp Field closes one hour after the game concludes.
Men’s Soccer vs. Hampden-Sydney
4 p.m. Soccer Complex
Full event details
Join us for a match between BC and Hampden-Sydney. Cheer on the Eagles and be part of the Homecoming spirit! Game is free and open to the public.
Class of 1984 Gathering
5-7 p.m. The Cracked Pillar Pub (403 N. Main St, Bridgewater)
Full event details
Join members of the Class of 1984 for a gathering after the big game. Permanent Class President, Deanna Bowe ‘84 will save some seats for you! All purchases paid individually.
Class of 1989 Gathering
5-7 p.m. Vito’s Italian Kitchen (1047 Port Republic Rd, Harrisonburg)
Full event details
All classmates are invited to gather after the Homecoming festivities for food and drinks (purchases paid individually) at Vito’s private dining room. Enjoy sitting on the patio or gather inside the restaurant to conclude the BC 35th reunion celebration. Registration is required to determine seating necessary. Event hosted by Permanent Class President Michelle Johnson ‘89.
Class of 2014 Gathering
5-9 p.m. Bluestone Vineyard (4828 Spring Creek Rd, Bridgewater)
Full event details
All members from the Class of 2014 are invited to Bluestone for wine (purchases paid individually). Gather one final time to reminisce about life 10 years after BC and take in the breathtaking views of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. This event is hosted by Permanent Class President Troy Jackson ’14.
⭐Class of 1974 Dinner
6 p.m. The Granary at Valley Pike (3494 Lee Hwy, Weyers Cave)
Full event details
Join your fellow classmates at this special dinner and remembrance of our Fallen Eagles. Happy Hour: 6-7 p.m. with dinner buffet beginning at 7:00 p.m. Meal includes a buffet of Marinated Chicken with Alfredo Cream Sauce, Bruschetta and Balsamic Drizzle, Alfredo pasta with Broccoli (Veg), Steamed Green Beans & Carrots, Tossed Salad with Assorted Dressings, Rolls & Butter, Gingerbread Cake with Lemon Curd, Chocolate Mousse Cup, Lemonade. Beer and wine will be available for purchase. Casual attire. Cost: $50/per person.
Homecoming Concert
7:30 p.m. Carter Center for Worship and Music, Concert Hall
Full event details
Bridgewater College’s Chorale, Jazz Ensemble, and Alumni Jazz Band will perform on Saturday, Oct. 12, in the Concert Hall at the Carter Center for Worship and Music. The performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public, and the BC community is encouraged to attend as part of Homecoming weekend.
Sunday, October 13
Activities listed with a ⭐ are part of the Class of 1974’s 50th Reunion.
⭐Class of 1974 Farewell Brunch
11 a.m.-1 p.m. Kline Campus Center, Main Dining Hall
Gather one last time to celebrate your 50th reunion weekend. Cash and credit card accepted. Cost: $12 per person (plus tax).
Smitty’s Cafe
Forrer Learning Commons
Friday, Oct. 11: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 12: 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Campus Store
Cole Hall
Friday, Oct. 11: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 12: 10 a.m. to the end of the 3rd quarter
Kline Campus Center Dining
Saturday, Oct. 12: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Lunch on your own. Open to alumni, students and friends. $8.50 per person (plus tax).
Sunday, Oct. 13: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Brunch. $12 per person (plus tax).
Questions? Contact:
alumnews@bridgewater.edu
540-828-5451
