BUIES CREEK – A milestone year deserves a big party.
Campbell University is planning just that on Oct. 21 for its 125th Anniversary Gala, scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. at the John W. Pope Jr. Convocation Center.
Nearly 1,000 alumni, current students, faculty, staff and friends of Campbell are expected for the celebration, which will highlight the University’s history, according to Renee Green, admissions coordinator for the College of Arts & Sciences and Gala co-organizer.
“That I know of, Campbell hasn’t had a big event like this … a social event bringing together faculty, alumni and students,” Green said. “And I think it is an amazing highlight in Campbell’s history … a celebration of what we’re all about and a time for those who love Campbell and who have been touched by it to come together to remember and celebrate.”
The Gala is one of the highlights of Homecoming Week, which will culminate with the football team’s 1 p.m. game on Oct. 22 against San Diego University at Barker-Lane Stadium. That Friday, doors to the Gala will open at 6:30 p.m. with an “orange carpet” welcome, horsd’oeuvres stations representing different decades, formal photos near the bronze camel statue, a photobooth and a walk-through timeline of Campbell photos throughout the years.
At 8 p.m., a program will highlight 125 years of faith, learning and service at Campbell, and at 9 p.m., the dancing will begin with David and Emily Geiger from Grace Ballroom and the Moonlighters. Music from decades past will evolve as the night progresses.
“I think this dance is different because it’s focus is on Campbell University, and it brings together many different groups of people who all share a passion and appreciation for all that Campbell means,” Green said.
Green said planning for the Gala has taken months, and she expects those in attendance to not only have a good time, but leave with a better appreciation for Campbell’s history.
“I think (Campbell’s founders) would be proud of how far we’ve come since the little schoolhouse with 21 students,” she said. “We’re teaching and reaching the world and then sending out students out in it to make a difference in it. And it all starts in Buies Creek.”
For more information, email Green at [email protected]/* */ or call (910) 814-5516.
Click HERE for more information and a complete schedule of Homecoming 2011.