HOMECOMING SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025
9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
HANOVER COLLEGE CAMPUS STORE
Be sure to stop by the Hanover College Campus Store during Homecoming! Open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the store offers a variety of Hanover apparel, gifts, and memorabilia. Whether you want to update your Panther wardrobe or find the perfect keepsake, the campus store has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to take home a piece of Hanover!
6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
CLASS OF 1975 FRIDAY NIGHT GATHERING
Kick off Homecoming Weekend with your classmates at a casual, pay-as-you-go gathering at the Shoebox on Friday evening! This informal get-together is perfect for reconnecting, sharing laughs, and starting the celebration early. The Shoebox, located near Alumni Stadium, offers excellent food, beer, and wine, and a lively atmosphere—ideal for reminiscing and relaxing with fellow members of the Class of 1975. RSVP requested.
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF IMPACT
Formerly the VIP Dinner | By Invitation Only
Join us for our annual and exclusive evening dedicated to celebrating the generosity and commitment of Hanover College's most loyal supporters. This unique gathering brings together distinguished alumni, donors, and friends of the College for an elegant dinner in appreciation of your invaluable contributions. Enjoy connecting with fellow benefactors, college leadership, and students whose lives have been directly shaped by your support. The evening will include special remarks, inspiring stories of impact, and a glimpse into the exciting future of Hanover College as we approach our Bicentennial.
8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
ALUMNI-STUDENT BINGO NIGHT
The Withrow Activities Center will host the widely popular Bingo Night! Get ready to groove, gamble, and win exciting prizes.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2025
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
SELF-GUIDED CAMPUS TOUR
https://www.hanover.edu/docs/campusmap.pdf
https://www.hanover.edu/admission/visits/virtualtour/
Embark on a personalized journey of exploration and discovery with our new self-guided campus tours at Hanover College. Designed for alumni, students, families, and visitors, this innovative approach allows you to experience our beautiful campus on your terms at your own pace. Why self-guided? Because we believe that every visitor deserves the freedom to explore our campus in a way that suits their individual preferences and interests. Our self-guided tour option lets you linger in your favorite spots and truly immerse yourself in the Hanover experience. If you can't return to campus, take the Virtual Tour today. All campus buildings will be open unless otherwise noted.
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
THE SCIENCE CENTER TURNS 25 IN 2025!
Happy Birthday to one of Hanover College's most dynamic spaces for discovery! Join us on Saturday, October 18, during Homecoming to celebrate 25 years of science, exploration, and curiosity. While no special programming is planned, the Science Center will be open for self-guided tours. All are welcome to stop by and explore everything this incredible facility has to offer, including:
- Sandy is a life-size cast of the world's most complete American mastodon, standing 10 feet tall and stretching 20 feet long.
- Tinker: A juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex cast that brings prehistoric times to life.
- Virtual Tour: Visit now.
9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
THE SOCIETY'S ANNUAL MEMORIAL SERVICE
*Registration Recommended
The 1827 Society invites you to a heartfelt gathering at the Memorial Wall, opposite the President's Home, to honor and remember those we have lost throughout the year. Led by Rev. Catherine Knott, Ball Family Chaplain, this special service provides a time of reflection and remembrance as we celebrate the lives, memories, and legacies of our dearly departed. In a solemn and supportive atmosphere, we come together as a community to share in the comfort of unity and express gratitude for the impact these individuals have had on our lives. We hope you will join us for this meaningful tribute.
9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
HANOVER COLLEGE CAMPUS STORE
Don't forget to check out the remodeled Hanover College Campus Store at the Campus Center during Homecoming! The store offers a variety of Hanover apparel, gifts, and memorabilia. Whether you want to update your Panther wardrobe or find the perfect keepsake, the campus store has something for everyone. Make sure to stop by and take home a piece of Hanover!
9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
COFFEE & CONNECTIONS: A Homecoming Morning Mixer
*Registration Recommended
Start your day the Hanover way - coffee, conversation, and connection! Join us in the North Dining Room for Connections & Coffee, sponsored by the Young Alumni Council. Reconnect with classmates, meet current students, and get ready for a day filled with Panther pride! All alumni are welcome—stop by, sip, and socialize! ☕🐾
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
60th ANNIVERSARY OF SHAKESPEARE IN ENGLAND
*Registration is highly recommended due to the catered meal and seating
Join us at the Duggan Library during Homecoming Weekend for a special celebration and brunch marking the 60th Anniversary of the Shakespeare in England program. This milestone event will honor the program's rich history and its lasting impact on generations of Hanover students. The celebration will feature a panel discussion with program leaders and alumni, including:
- Dr. Jonathan Smith, Emeritus Professor of English
- Gabriel Vanover, Associate Professor of Theatre and Theatre Department Chair
- Dr. Dee Goertz, Professor of English
- Cait Fanin Peel '01, joining us via Zoom from the Shakespeare Centre in England
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
HANOVER COLLEGE CAMPUS STORE POP-UP
Stop by the Hanover College Campus Store pop-up in the Tailgate Lot, near Alumni Stadium, to grab your favorite Panther gear and memorabilia! Whether looking for apparel, accessories, or unique gifts, this is your chance to stock up and show off your Hanover pride during Homecoming.
11:00 a.m. to Noon
MOVIE PREMIERE: "The Jealous Old Man," inspired by Miguel de Cervantes
Join us in CLA 102 for the worldwide premiere of Hanover College's "The Jealous Old Man," inspired by Miguel de Cervantes' uproarious interlude. Experience the creative process of our Spanish and Communication students! The event starts at 11:00 a.m. with a glamorous red-carpet welcome featuring the film stars. The screening begins promptly at 11:15 a.m. and runs for 30 minutes. Following the film, from 11:45 to 12:00, meet the talented cast and crew over a glass of Spanish wine and collect their autographs! Arrive early, as seating is limited!
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
GUIDING GENERATIONS CELEBRATION: A Toast to Cheryl & Our Ambassadors
Join fellow alumni who served as Admissions Ambassadors during your time at Hanover for a special gathering at the Admissions Building. Reminisce about campus tours, student panels, and helping future Panthers find their way—all while celebrating your role in shaping the Hanover experience. This year, we’ll also honor Cheryl Torline and her remarkable career as she retires after years of dedicated service to Hanover College. Help us toast to her impact and legacy in the place where it all began!
11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
LGBTQIA+ OPEN HOUSE
Join us in Lynn Hall for the Annual LGBTQIA+ Open House! This event is an inclusive and welcoming space for all students, faculty, staff, and allies to unite and celebrate our diverse community. Whether you identify as LGBTQIA+ or are an ally, this open house offers a beautiful opportunity to connect, learn, and engage with others.
Noon to 1:30 p.m.
ALUMNI AWARDS LUNCHEON
HanCollege's Alumni Awards Luncheon will be held on the patio of the Campus Center and hosted by the Alumni Leadership Council. The luncheon begins at Noon with a buffet meal, followed by the award presentations at 12:45 p.m.
This event recognizes alumni's contributions to their community, state, and nation through their professional, public, and civic acts in cities. The highest honor is the Alumni Achievement Award, given to alumni who have enhanced the College's reputation. Additionally, the College presents the Distinguished Young Alumni Award, the highest honor for alumni over 40. For more information about the honorees, please visit https://our.hanover.edu/Alumni_Awards.
- Alumni Achievement Award
- Beth Maxson Monnin '83
- Lee' Annis '78
- Karl Plank '74
- Distinguished Young Alumni Award
11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
WELCOME TO PANTHER VILLAGE! HANOVERFEST REIMAGED!
Get ready for a thrilling Homecoming 2025 as we introduce Panther Village, the exciting new location for Hanoverfest behind the home side of Alumni Stadium! This is a new walkable space. Sorry, no vehicles are allowed on the grass, as this is a practice field.
What to Expect at Panther Village:
🏟️ A Homecoming Hotspot for All Panthers!
🏰 Kidz Zone – Bounce houses and fun activities for all ages
🎓 Reunion Row – Special spaces for milestone class reunions.
🏆The End Zone – A dedicated tailgate spot for coaches, alumni, and students
Celebrate Milestone Reunions:
🎓 10-Year Reunion: Class of 2015
🎓 25-Year Reunion: Class of 2000
🎓 50-Year Reunion: Class of 1975
Reconnect with classmates, reminisce about your Hanover days, and create new memories in this vibrant, festive space filled with Panther pride. Stay tuned for more details about this unforgettable celebration. Can't wait to welcome you home! 🐾
1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
PANTHER FOOTBALL
Grab your foam fingers, don your team colors, and get ready to witness gridiron greatness. Don't miss the excitement at Alumni Stadium.
1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
CHAMPION'S CLUB GATHERING
*Members Only
All members of The Panther Club at the Champion Level ($ 5,000+) are invited to the Homecoming football game to enjoy the festivities from the President's Box. Come cheer on your Panthers! The Panther Club's sole purpose is to provide additional financial assistance to our athletic department for our students, coaches, and teams. With your support, we will promote the championship spirit of Hanover athletics.
2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
CENTER FOR BUSINESS AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP OPEN HOUSE
*Registration Recommended
Stop by Parker Hall and explore Hanover's new Center for Business and Entrepreneurship! This open house event offers a first look at the renovated space, designed to support hands-on learning, innovation, and real-world business experiences. All are welcome! Details pending.
2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
SCIENCE CENTER MEET & GREET + SWEET TREATS WITH STAN TOTTEN
The Science Center will be open all day, but don't miss this special Meet & Greet with Professor Emeritus Dr. Stan Totten from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. Explore what's new, reconnect, and enjoy complimentary cupcakes while they last. Whether you majored in the sciences or love a good fossil, we'd love to see you there!
5:00 p.m.
CLASS OF 2015 GATHERING
Join your classmates for a casual night out at Mad Paddle to celebrate 10 years since graduation! Great brews, live music, and even better company—pay as you go and stay as long as you like. Let's raise a glass to the past, present, and Panther pride! 🐾🍻
5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
CLASS OF 1975: 50-YEAR REUNION DINNER
*Registration is highly recommended due to catering and seating
Come together with fellow members of the Class of '75 for an evening of laughter, nostalgia, and the joy of shared experience. Let's make this reunion dinner on the patio of the Campus Center a night to remember—one that celebrates the enduring spirit of Hanover College and the timeless friendships that have stood the test of time.
Evening Agenda
- 5:30 p.m. – Cocktail Reception & Welcome
Enjoy drinks and reconnect with classmates as we kick off the evening.
- 6:15 p.m. – Class Photo
Join us for a commemorative photo opportunity to mark this special milestone.
- 6:30 p.m. - Remembrance Ceremony
A special moment of remembrance to honor classmates who have passed away.
- 6:40 p.m. - Campus Update & Dinner Prayer
Remarks by President Lake Lambert, followed by a blessing before the meal.
- 6:40 p.m. – Dinner Service
Enjoy a delicious meal under the stars as stories and memories flow.
- Following Dinner – Fun Finds with Lee Annis '78
This year's Alumni Achievement Award recipient shares fascinating facts and hidden gems uncovered while writing Hanover's upcoming bicentennial history book.