Nancy Lane, Content Strategist
Nelson University
For Immediate Release
WAXAHACHIE, TEXAS — Nelson University’s Homecoming 2024 marked a major milestone as the university celebrated its first Homecoming under the new Nelson University name. With record attendance, exciting new events, and heartfelt moments honoring alumni achievements, this year’s celebration highlighted the vibrant community spirit and strong traditions that make the Nelson community special. James Carnell, Senior Director of Alumni Relations, shared, “We were thrilled to welcome so many alumni—some returning for the first time since graduation.”
The excitement kicked off on Thursday, October 31, as the Nelson University Lions Men’s Basketball Team took to the court for the 2024-25 home opener against the Arlington Baptist University (ABU) Patriots at the Sheaffer Center. Embracing the beloved “Texas Snowstorm” tradition, where fans unleash a cascade of ping pong balls onto the court after the first basket, the Lions fed off the crowd’s enthusiasm and powered their way to a thrilling 90-83 victory.
On Friday, the celebrations continued with an inspiring message from Homecoming Speaker Dr. Scott Bottoms at the Alumni Chapel service, setting a reflective tone for the day. Shortly after, the campus gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Phase 1 of the Lions Athletic Complex, a new facility featuring a turf soccer/football field, track and field amenities, and a plaza with the iconic Judah the Lion statue. Vice President Bowles, Athletic Director Dr. Jesse Godding, and President Dr. Kermit Bridges led the ceremony, with key partners like Citizens National Bank of Texas and Waxahachie City Manager Michael Scott joining in to celebrate this exciting addition.
The festivities then moved to the Alumni Lunch Party, a chance for alumni to reconnect over food and shared memories. Following lunch, attendees joined in the friendly competition of the Alumni Softball Game, where alumni of all ages played at the Sports Complex. That evening, over 200 guests gathered for the inaugural Nelson U Barbecue and Affinity Reunions, where various alumni groups enjoyed a relaxed evening with a special menu and lively conversations. The Lady Lions volleyball team showcased their strength with a commanding 3-0 victory against Langston University, posting set scores of 25-18, 25-9, and 25-7. This triumph secured the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) Regular Season Championship once again for the Lady Lions, adding to their impressive legacy in the program’s history and solidifying their reputation as a conference powerhouse. The day concluded with Collinstock, an outdoor music and comedy night under the stars, bringing together students and alumni for a fun-filled evening.
Saturday kicked off with the SWA Brunch hosted by the Women’s Alliance, a beloved tradition that provided another opportunity for alumni to reconnect. Later that morning, the Tailgate & Entrepreneur Fair brought together alumni, students, and families at Lumpkins Stadium for games, food, and activities. The Homecoming excitement continued with the Homecoming Football Game, where the Lions faced off against Louisiana Christian University in front of a spirited crowd. Seniors Kyle Hendricks and Sage Yancey were crowned Homecoming King and Queen. The weekend wrapped up with the Nelson Women’s Volleyball game, as the Lady Lions showcased their dominance on the court, sweeping Central Christian College (Kan.) 3-0.
Throughout the weekend, Nelson also recognized alumni who have made significant contributions in their fields and communities. Honorees included Nate Schatzline, a Texas State Representative and founder of organizations promoting community reform; Caden Metcalf, Lead Pastor of Radiant Church in Arizona; Dr. Shelly Zaldivar, Chair of Nelson’s Business Department and leader of the Women in Business Elevate Club; Jo Anne George, a lifelong supporter of Nelson and local missions; and Mike & Karen Robertson, ministry leaders recognized for their lifelong contributions to worship and church revitalization.
Nelson University extends its gratitude to everyone who joined Homecoming 2024 and contributed to its success. “We look forward to expanding Homecoming events for 2025, Carnell says, “and hope to build on this year’s success.”
Nelson University, formerly Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU), is a private Christian university situated just 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas. Established in 1927, Nelson University now offers more than 70 undergraduate and graduate degrees, both on campus and online. Committed to integrating faith and learning, Nelson University prepares students to fulfill their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered community. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or call 1-888-937-7248.
