By Xhaxany Cuellar, assistant editor
The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor became an institution in 1845, over 178 years ago. Since then, over 26,000 graduates have created numerous paths to make the university what it is today. Some of UMHB’s alumni include Jerrell Freeman, Lucy Wilson Rice and Buddy Groom; all of who, alongside their classmates, have gone on to have successful careers in professional sports, journalism and missionary work.
The UMHB Alumni Center and Museum aims to preserve the history of the university while providing an experience for former alumni to visit and relive their experiences and allowing students to learn about the university’s past.
Director of Alumni Relations Jeff Sutton graduated from UMHB in both 2007 and 2019 and received two degrees from UMHB. He now works to connect alumni to the university years after graduating. Every month, Mr. Sutton sends out emails and letters to inform alumni members of university events and highlight traditions. The Alumni Center works with multiple members of university staff to plan class reunions and networking opportunities.
Ond of the biggest events for alumni is Homecoming, with over 700 alumni members and 1400 guests expected to attend. A year of planning goes into organizing Homecoming and this year, the Alumni Center has planned over 22 events for students and alumni.
“The goal each year is for Homecoming to look effortless, but we have a whole team that dedicated months to preparing,” Sutton stated.
In addition to Homecoming, the Alumni Center celebrates “The Charter” on Feb 1 to highlight the day the charter of the school was signed in 1845. This year, the Charter celebration will host the 50 year reunion of the class of 1974 and the reunion for Historical Phila, Royal Academia and Campus Boys. A celebration lunch and special message will be given for the induction of the 1974 class into the heritage club and will take place April 20, 2024.
