Alums Return for 2010 Homecoming

Pacific Union College alumni gathered as they do each spring for Homecoming Weekend, April 16-18. From the handing out of Diogenes Lanterns (the school flower) to the Utt Lecture to parties for Honor Classes, events gave alumni a chance to enjoy the current campus and reminisce about their days at PUC.

This year, Honored Alumni awards went to Audrey and Bruce Anderson, Monica Neumann, and Jake Scheideman. The Andersons, both 1960 graduates, come from a family whose members have attended, taught, or pastored at PUC since 1910. The two have been invaluable to the legacy of former PUC professor Walter Utt, hosting alumni and board meetings and collaborating with the college on Utt Endowment affairs. Monica Neumann, class of 1970, is an anesthesiologist, professor, and director at Loma Linda University Medical Center and is known for her work in nurturing the next generation of Adventist medical professionals. Local bike shop owner Jake Scheideman, class of 1990, has spent 10 years improving life for the people of a small town in Nicaragua. He founded the non-profit Developing Communities, Inc., and has involved the local community and many volunteers in contributing to the town.

PUC also honored Jean Phillips as an Honored Pioneer, a person whose friendship to the college had been significant. Phillips serves as trustee for the estate of Dorothy Tweed, whose trust provides academic support funding for PUC's nursing program. Others recognized included Herb Ford, a long-time college supporter and former journalism teacher who was honored at the Diogenes Dinner, and retiring professors Nancy Tucker, Bill Hemmerlin, and James Chase.

The weekend officially celebrated PUC's "Distinguished Past, Confident Future,” and included opportunities for visitors ranging from exhibits in Rasmussen Art Gallery, the history museum, and the Wilmer C. Hansen Museum to a music department concert featuring the orchestra, handbells, symphonic wind ensemble, and I Cantori chorale.