We are thrilled to welcome all alums to campus for worship, classes, and fellowship. Whether you attended seminary in Naperville or Evanston, we happily invite you to our Homecoming celebration!
Friends and family are welcome to celebrate with us as well!
Questions? Contact Mary Bowmann Arents, director of annual giving and alum relations, at 847.866.3889.
Registration
Homecoming In-person: $25/person
Homecoming Online: $10/person
Customize your Homecoming experience with the following in-person events::
In-person Homecoming registration includes:
Online Homecoming registration includes:
Customize your Homecoming experience with these in-person add-ons:
“Our seminary community is thrilled to welcome you back to campus. Our Chapel Planning Team is designing worship that will enliven your spirit. Faculty members are preparing sample classes that will stimulate your mind. And of course, there will be plenty of time for fellowship that feeds the soul.” – President Javier A. Viera
“I am looking forward to reconnecting with classmates, creating connections with new students, faculty and staff, and sharing information about the Junius B. Dotson Institute for Music and Worship in the Black Church and Beyond.” – Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson (G-ETS 2013)
“I’m excited to connect with friends, meet new students, and invest into this community!”
– Rev. Scott Marsh (G-ETS 2019)
Rev. Karli D. Pidgeon
(MDiv ‘07)
Reverend Karli D. Pidgeon is a pastor serving as the District Superintendent for Baton Rouge and New Orleans districts of the Louisiana Conference of The United Methodist Church. In this role, she supervises and supports 95 churches and pastors. Karli has a passion for travel, preaching, and mission. Above all, Karli loves God, loves the Church and is committed to “giving a voice to the voiceless” and reaching those who have been pushed to the margins of society.
All events will take place on the Garrett-Evangelical campus at 2121 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois, unless otherwise noted. Specific locations will be provided upon arrival.
Optional pre-Homecoming retreat grounded in scripture and Gospel Music that helps lead the Body of Christ to receive God’s gift of rest.
$10 per person | Register here.
Opening Worship and Distinguished Alum Awards
Join the community for our weekly chapel service in the Chapel of the Unnamed Faithful, where we will also honor our Distinguished Alums, Rev. Dr. Irene Taylor (MDiv ’87) and Dr. Manuel Villalobos Mendoza (PhD ’10).
Community Meal
Enjoy a casual meal with the opportunity to mix and mingle with current students as well as long-time friends.
Hymn Sing
Grab a drink and raise your voice for an informal hymn sing at The Graduate Hotel just off campus.
Faculty Sample Class
Feel like a student all over again! Attend a class taught by a member of our world-class faculty.
Brian Bantum, Neal F. and Ila A. Fisher Professor of Theology, “Clothed in Flesh: How Jesus is More Than His Death (and We Are More Than Our Sin)” in-person
Gennifer B. Brooks, Ernest and Bernice Styberg Professor of Preaching, “Preaching Good News in Troublesome Times” in-person and online
G. Brooke Lester, Associate Professor of Hebrew Scriptures, “What’s the Difference? The Poetry of the Song of Songs in Translation” in-person and online
Networking Lunch
Connect with fellow alums and current students around common interests to share ideas and encouragement.
Young Adult Initiative Masterclass Film Premiere
Be inspired by young adults in ministry during a film premiere produced by Garrett-Evangelical’s Young Adult Initiative and funded by Lilly Endowment, Inc.
Center for the Church and the Black Experience 50th Anniversary Gala
Celebrate more than 50 years of the CBE at the Halim Time & Glass Museum in downtown Evanston.
$50 per person | Purchase tickets here.
Campus housing is currently at capacity with students, so we encourage you to take advantage of group rates at one of the following hotels.
1625 Hinman Ave
Evanston, IL 60201
$149/night + tax
Breakfast and valet parking available for additional fees
Make your reservation early to ensure availability.
1710 Orrington Ave.
Evanston, IL 60201
$139/night + tax
Complimentary valet parking.
Reservations must be made by October 8. Those not canceled within 48 hours prior to arrival date will be charged for one night’s room and tax.
For Reservations
By Phone: Call 1-800-HILTONS and refer to group code GAR.
Prospective students will be joining us on November 8 & 9 for a concurrent event called “Discover Garrett.” Know a prospective student? Encourage them to register for Discover Garrett and come with you!
Not at this time. Homecoming will serve as our signature event welcoming alums to campus each year. This decision was made in an effort to create an alum-specific experience distinct from the student-oriented events surrounding Commencement. We are thrilled to host Homecoming for ALL alums so you can return as often as you would like!
