RICHMOND — The two-decade old Baptist Theological Seminary at Richmond will host its first homecoming celebration Oct. 16-17, welcoming alumni back to campus for two days of festivities.
Homecoming will offer the school, which this year is in the midst of 20th anniversary observances, another opportunity to “celebrate the continuing work of the seminary in equipping men and women for Christian ministry,” said Kim Siegenthaler, director of continuing education and alumni relations.
Virginia Hall will be the site of some of BTSR's first homecoming activities. (BTSR Photo)
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Since 1989, BTSR has graduated more than 580 students now serving around the world.
“The event is generating a lot of excitement among alumni,” said Siegenthaler. “Along with registrations, I’m getting numerous emails from alumni saying how much they wish they could be here.”
Highlights of the celebration will be an update on the state of the seminary from President Ron Crawford, tours of renovated facilities on campus and a cookout for alumni and their families.
The event begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16 with registration and hors d’oeuvres. Between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., participants will hear from Crawford and tour the campus.
Family games will begin on the school’s quad at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, followed by a hamburger and hotdog cookout. The Brown-Hayes Project, a Richmond-based ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s cover band, will provide entertainment.
Siegenthaler said the campus has seen dramatic alterations in two decades.
“Students during the early years of the seminary met in Paisley Hall for classes and roller skated in the basement of Lingle Hall,” she said. “If alumni haven’t been back on campus in a while, they will be amazed by all the changes.”
Alumni should register in advance at www.btsr.edu/homecoming to ensure enough food is available, said Siegenthaler. Cost for the two days (which covers food and entertainment) is $25 per person (12 years of age and up). Friday night only cost is $10; Saturday only is $15.
A limited number of rooms at a discounted rate of $52.99 per night are available at the Quality Inn—West End, if reserved by Oct. 1. Reservations may be made by calling the hotel at (804) 346-0000 and asking for the BTSR Alumni block.