If you missed 51 Weekend on Oct. 24 and 25, you missed the best one yet. The schedule was full of fun, reminiscing and celebrating what God is doing in the lives of students and their families, both present and past. This year’s program included reunions by decade, a highlighted 1960s reunion, a 5K run to raise funds for students, the 51 Bazaar, lunch with the president, the backwards breakfast, the annual Punk ’n’ Pie talent show and the Iron Eagle Dorm Competitions. We had an action-packed schedule with something for everyone in the family!

Over the past few years, the alumni and parent offices have combined efforts to multiply the scope of 51 Weekend, seeking to involve numerous departments and a greater number of faculty, staff and students in the planning and implementation of the event. This effort is paying off as we are increasing the numbers of attendees and events.

What gets me most excited is the involvement of current students in the event. Whether it was the chapel program, Punk ’n’ Pie or the dorm competition, students are starting the habit — we hope for life! — of enjoying 51 Weekend. Our students bring a unique energy to the campus and to great events like 51 Weekend, and we are so glad they are here.

For many alumni and parents, the opportunity to spend time with our students is a highlight of their time on campus. For parents, it’s also an opportunity to get a taste of the academic lectures and spiritual life events their students enjoy throughout the year. And for alumni, it’s a reminder of the great days they spent here at 51 preparing for their own careers, way back when

So, if you didn’t make it this year, get your old 51 gang together and plan to join us for next year’s festivities. You won’t be sorry, and I guarantee great fun for all!

Speaking of alumni and student relationships, for those of you who have been wondering about the mentoring and career services work that we have talked about in recent months, the Student Alumni Association is putting the power of career mentoring to the test.

This semester, nearly 50 students have met with a hand-selected alumni mentor in their field of study. These students are experiencing regular meetings with mature, career-related alumni professionals who can speak into their preparation, warn of career pitfalls and advise them on “what not to miss” after graduation.

The early reviews have found that lifelong friendships are being crafted and invaluable advice and counsel is being provided for young men and women about to enter the workforce. Our thanks to all who participated in helping to prepare the next generation of Christian leaders!

For more information on all things alumni, please feel welcome to contact me at rick.bee@biola.edu. For together, we are alumni for life!