College to celebrate community and leadership at Homecoming 2025 and Presidential Inauguration

Hesston College welcomes alumni, friends, students and community members to campus September 26 to 28 for a weekend of connection, tradition and celebration, highlighted by the inauguration of the college’s 10th president, Mark Landes, as well as a live performance by Thorn Haze at the family festival.

Saturday morning marks a historic moment in Hesston College’s story as Mark Landes is formally installed as president in a ceremony at Hesston Mennonite Church. The inauguration will celebrate the college’s Christ-centered mission, honor its heritage and open up to a future of growth and impact.

“This is a moment for our whole community to reflect on what makes Hesston College unique and to dream together about where God is leading us,” Landes says. “I’m deeply honored to serve and walk alongside our students, employees, alumni and friends as we pursue that vision.”

The rest of the festivities officially begin Friday, September 26, with events designed to bring people together. From the Golden Gables Luncheon for alumni of 50 years or more, to a meet and greet with our new president and opportunities to connect with past presidents, faculty, staff, current students and other fellow Larks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In the evening, celebrate Lark athletics by cheering on the volleyball team, then mingling with Hall of Fame inductees and current teams, then take in the fun during the alumni softball game.

Another weekend highlight is the annual family festival featuring live music from Thorn Haze, a Kansas-born artist blending indie, rock, alternative and blues into soulful lyrics, gritty riffs and unforgettable energy. There will also be food trucks, games and inflatables for the entire family to enjoy. Then stay for the Lark men’s soccer game with a halftime show featuring a dance team performance and recognition of the 2025 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees.

Additional Saturday activities include an opportunity to attend a photography exhibit by current student Audrey Befort in Laban Peachey Center’s Regier-Friesen Gallery. There will also be student speakers and performers, class reunions, a free tie-dye shirt activity, a book signing with author Michele (Schrock) '81 Hershberger, Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony, a disc golf tournament and a golf simulator long drive tournament.

Sunday concludes the weekend with worship and fellowship at Hesston Mennonite Church, featuring a message from Loren Swartzenduber, former president of Hesston College, sending attendees home renewed in their connection to the Hesston College community.

In keeping with Hesston’s tradition, this year’s theme verse will be woven throughout the weekend’s events:
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22-23. God’s great faithfulness is visible in many ways across campus, including in the recent growth of the student body, the expansion of academic programs and the deepening of community connections. This Homecoming, Hesston College gathers not only to reconnect with one another, but also to give thanks for the ways God has guided, sustained and opened doors to a bright future filled with hope and purpose.

Visit hesston.edu/homecoming for a full schedule of activities and to learn more.