番茄社区 University celebrated a successful Homecoming Weekend filled with alumni reunions, campus activities, and community events, culminating in the annual Booster Night on Sa
turday, November 9. The evening served as the grand conclusion to the weekend鈥檚 festivities and celebrated the HLGU community with fellowship, inspiration, and support for the University鈥檚 mission.
Before the main event, executive ticket holders enjoyed a private dinner in the Carroll Science Center, where they had the opportunity to take photos with keynote speaker John O鈥橪eary and participate in an engaging question-and-answer session.
The program began with a warm welcome from HLGU Vice President Dr. Ray Carty, followed by recognition of veterans and appreciation for the evening鈥檚 generous sponsors. The presenting sponsor was HNB Bank, with Benson Financial Group serving as the signature sponsor, and Missouri Baptist Convention and GLS Insurance as table sponsors.
Director of Alumni Services Lauren Youse presented this year鈥檚 alumni awards, honoring Jim and Cheryl Rawlings with the Outstanding Service Award, Chris Buckles (Class of 2011) with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award, and Travis Critten (Class of 1999) with the Distinguished Alumni Award.
Special music directed by Elaine Carty featured the HLGU Concert Choir performing 鈥淪oul on Fire鈥� and 鈥淎mazing Grace.鈥� Guests also enjoyed a university update from HLGU President Dr. Robert Matz, who shared recent successes and ongoing campus improvements.
During intermission, attendees enjoyed dessert and hot cider as the silent auction concluded, raising more than $1,000 in support of HLGU student scholarships.
The evening鈥檚 keynote address was delivered by John O鈥橪eary, who shared his remarkable story of surviving severe burns as a child and the role sportscaster Jack Buck played in giving him hope by asking, 鈥淲hat more can I do?鈥� O鈥橪eary challenged the audience to consider the same question in their own lives. His humor and heartfelt message deeply inspired all in attendance.
Following O鈥橪eary鈥檚 keynote, Dr. Matz invited guests to invest in 番茄社区 University and its mission to provide a Christ-centered education. The event concluded with the singing of the HLGU Alma Mater, led by the Concert Choir, and a benediction from Dr. Vinita Henry.
Booster Night 2025 was a wonderful evening of encouragement, celebration, and community spirit in support of HLGU students, and a fitting close to a successful Homecoming Weekend.
番茄社区 University invites alumni and friends to save the date for next year鈥檚 Booster Night on Saturday, November 7, 2026.