A place to call home

Every year, Auggies near and far are invited to be a part of Augsburg’s vibrant spirit by attending Homecoming, celebrating the community that shaped them, reliving treasured traditions, sharing stories, and making new memories.

Nate Berkas, director of alumni relations and annual giving, says there’s more to Homecoming than simply being back on campus. It’s about reconnecting.

“My favorite part of Homecoming is when we welcome back alumni and they talk about how grateful they are for coming back because it filled them up,” Berkas explains. “The magic of Homecoming is having people remember that there is great joy in being an Auggie, and that they are just as much an Auggie today as they were when they graduated.”

This year’s three-day event series kicked off Thursday with the Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony and Reception, honoring the selection of nine former student athletes into the 52nd class of the Athletic Hall of Fame. Inductees included Jess Bakalyar ’98, Felicia (Faison) Krick ’09, Whitney (Holman) Mead ’10, Mike Kennedy ’79, Larry Lamparske ’69, Mike LeDuc ’97, Ryan McIntosh ’01, John Pena ’98, and Shanna (Reed) Reineke ’10. In addition, James See ’09 received the Augsburg Excellence in Coaching Award, while Jeff Swenson ’79 accepted the Legend of Augsburg Athletics Award for his legacy as a former athlete, coach, and athletic director.

On Friday, members of the Class of 1975 gathered on campus to reconnect for their 50th Reunion, enjoying student-led tours of campus, performances from alumni and current students, and a special program in Hoversten Chapel.

Alumni Award recipients were celebrated with a ceremony and lunch, with six alumni honored in 2025. Selected Distinguished Alumni Awardees included Susan Allen ’92, Michele Boyer ’89, and Deacon Ross R. Murray ’00, ’09; the First Decade Award was given to Cristian Baca Perez ’16 and Muna Mohamed ’16; and Mark S. Johnson ’75 received the Spirit of Augsburg Award.

A full final day of celebration, Saturday served as an occasion of community gathering for both current students and alumni alike. Early risers were welcomed to Homecoming Chapel, while a lunchtime crowd gathered in the Quad for Taste of Augsburg. Featuring live music from the Augsburg Pep Band and over 35 student groups offering food and beverages, current students look forward to leading this segment of Homecoming each year. Alumni and students filled the Edor Nelson Field stands as Augsburg Football secured a comfortable 44–13 victory over St. Olaf. The weekend’s festivities ended with an evening Homecoming music showcase and dessert reception, with the audience observing performances from various students in the Music Department.

Alumni Board President Kristen Opalinski ’03 says it’s never been more important for alumni to celebrate on campus with students, faculty, and staff.

“As alumni, we play an essential role in sustaining Augsburg’s mission,” Opalinski states. “When we gather in community, we not only honor our shared past but also stand together to support Augsburg’s future. Your presence makes a difference.”

Don’t miss these upcoming events hosted by Augsburg University:

• Give to the Max Day: On November 20, all Augsburg alumni and friends are invited to join a celebration of generosity and community spirit. From the Augsburg Fund that supports scholarships for students, to targeted funding for departments, student organizations, and athletics, there’s a project for everyone to support!
• Advent Vespers: For 46 years, Augsburg has ushered in the Advent and Christmas seasons with a magnificent experience of music and liturgy focusing on the theme of preparation and culminating in the joyful celebration of the Incarnation. This year’s theme, “Guide Our Feet Into the Way of Peace,” comes from the song of Zechariah, an aging priest who rejoices at the birth of his son, John the Baptist. Zechariah prophesizes that his child will “go before the Lord to prepare his ways.” Reserve your spot at one of three performances, December 5 and 6.
• 2026 Convocations, Symposiums, and Lectures: Augsburg offers a variety of annual educational events open for public attendance, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation, the Interfaith Symposium, and the General Leif J. Sverdrup Visiting Scientist Lecture.

Top image: Current students provide a warm “welcome back” to alumni in the midst of game day excitement. (Photo by Courtney Perry)