If your understanding of Searcy comes primarily from walking around Harding’s campus or your student’s social media posts, you might associate it with the Benson Auditorium, the front lawn, Midnight Oil or white swings. However, today Searcy is a small but growing city with new restaurants, activities, coffee shops and entertainment. At the heart of it all is Harding University, a home for students for nearly 100 years. This Homecoming weekend we want to maximize your Searcy experience as you enjoy Harding’s celebration. From off-campus activities such as the vibrant Art Alley downtown to the fun family atmosphere at the Searcy Skate Rink, there are endless opportunities to enjoy your weekend. In addition, there will be many on-campus events such as the iconic Bison tailgate and football game; Homecoming musical, “Anastasia”; and a front lawn family picnic. We invite you to explore all Harding and Searcy have to offer!
For a full schedule of the weekend's events, visit harding.edu/homecoming
First Ladies Garden is a beautiful green space near the women’s residence halls. It’s a great photo spot, and many enjoy going on walks around the garden.
History House, located on Lott Tucker Drive, highlights Harding’s heritage with various exhibits that showcase the school’s 100-year legacy.
The Pregnant Tree is a classic landmark on the front lawn. The large tree has a bulge on the side as if it were pregnant with possibilities.
C.L. Kay Plaza is located between the Benson Auditorium and McInteer Bible and World Missions Center. There you will find students hanging out on steps, a beautiful fountain and maybe even musical performances.
Botham Jean Memorial, located just outside the University Dining Hall, was established in 2021 to honor alumnus Botham Jean who was tragically killed in Dallas in 2018. You’re invited to sit down and take a moment to read about his life and honor his memory.
Iconic Harding swings, located throughout the front lawn, provide an opportunity to enjoy the fall weather and reminisce.
Harding History Tour invites you to take a walk down memory lane at your own leisure, stopping by iconic campus locations to gain a richer understanding of the institution.
Searcy Skate Family Entertainment Center is a roller skating rink and arcade located just 10 minutes from campus.
Hourglass Escape Rooms is fun for the whole family! Work together as a team to solve challenges and escape.
Art Alley, located in downtown Searcy, is a collection of murals painted by community members. Take a stroll through the alley and enjoy the artwork.
The Rialto is a century-old cinema in the heart of downtown Searcy. $3 classic movies and $1 matinees are great for all ages.
Searcy Cinema, located on Race Street, is where you can catch the newest films on the big screen.
Janet and Larry Crain Memorial Library just opened its new location on Beebe Capps Expressway. There you can enjoy reading, grab coffee at Stu’s Brew and explore the new facility.
Searcy Mural Tour is a great way to experience our historic streets and parks! Searcy’s art scene could not be contained to a single gallery; it’s only natural for it to flow onto walls throughout the city. Download a map here.
Blue House Bookstore, located by Midnight Oil, just opened its doors with a variety of novels, autobiographies and fiction books to browse through; with a children's nook tucked in the back.
Mi Pueblito is a classic Mexican restaurant located on East Race Street just three minutes from campus. Check out their special deals such as $1 taco night.
Wild Sweet William’s is a local pastry shop inviting everyone to indulge in delicious treats and lunch items.
This Guys Smoke ’N Grill is a classic local barbecue joint where you can get a great sandwich and enjoy the smoky scent of slow-cooked meat in the air.
Casa Brava is a Mexican restaurant located on Beebe Capps Expressway. It is very close to campus and beloved by all.
Brick Oven is a pizza place where you can get freshly baked pizzas while enjoying fellowship with family and friends.
Greek House is a Mediterranean restaurant located on Beebe Capps Expressway. Go and enjoy a gyro, some pita bread, and other authentic Greek food.
Rock House is an American restaurant where you can get just about anything. It is also located on Beebe Capps Expressway.
Burrito Day is a local burrito place where you can order a customized burrito or bowl full of the freshest ingredients. Check out their new rooftop seating that overlooks the heart of downtown.
Pho Ever and More is a new Asian restaurant right next to campus on Race Street. Go and try their Pho noodle soup.
Chit Chat & Chew Cafe is a throwback diner located in downtown Searcy. They have all the classic breakfast items you can imagine. See if you can conquer their pancake challenge while you are there.
Tacker's Shake Shack is a classic small-town diner known for its oversized specialty burgers and hand-spun milkshakes, located in the Student Center and on Dr. Jimmy Carr Street.
Midnight Oil serves great coffee, homemade bread, pastries and lunch items, and it’s so close it’s practically on campus. When the weather is nice, take advantage of their outdoor porch.
Mr. Postman doubles as a post office. With a homey feel, their couches are the perfect place to enjoy a seasonal coffee.
Perk and Post is a sister location of Mr. Postman with outdoor-only seating. Occasionally, they host concerts and outdoor festivities.
Starbucks is located on Harding’s campus in Legacy Park and is a popular stop among students during the school day. There is also a location with a drive-thru on East Race Street.
7 Brew is a drive-thru coffee chain located on East Race Street. Stop by and get a coffee or energy drink.
Stu’s Brew has many locations around the Searcy area. The most recent location is inside the new Janet and Larry Crain Memorial Library.
8 a.m. Welcome Center
Location: David B. Burks American Heritage Building lobby
Don’t be surprised if the Heritage lobby is full of life in the early morning hours. Our Welcome Center invites guests to start their day with a warm atmosphere and friendly faces. Stop by to enjoy complimentary coffee and learn about all that is going on around campus. Our student ambassadors will be there to greet you and answer any questions you have. The Welcome Center will be available Thursday morning and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday if you would like to stop by throughout the weekend. We want to ensure your visit has a wonderful start!
9 a.m. Chapel
Location: Benson Auditorium
As you make your way through campus, make sure and join us in the Benson Auditorium for daily chapel. Joining a chapel service with more than 2,500 college students is a vibrant and uplifting experience. It is a staple of the Harding experience as every weekday morning the student body meets to worship God in song, prayer and devotion. You may even hear announcements about what is going on around campus. It is open seating, so get there early to secure a comfortable seat. Chapel is a time to pause, reflect and celebrate shared values, creating lasting memories in a welcoming environment that encourages spiritual growth and camaraderie.
7:45 a.m.- 10:00 p.m. Scholastic Book Fair
Location: Betty Ann Watson Education Resource Center, Thornton Education Building Room 334
Just like your childhood elementary school, the College of Education is hosting a Scholastic book fair. With colorful displays filled with the latest children’s books, classics and educational resources, itoffers something for everyone. The book fair will run 8 a.m.-10 p.m Thursday and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, so drop in whenever is most convenient for your schedule. All proceeds from the Scholastic book fair will help purchase more books for the Watson Center as it continues to grow the children’s library on the third floor of the Thornton Education Center.
8 a.m.- 5 p.m. — Legacy in Kodachrome Exhibition by John Keller and The Lee Watts Collection Exhibition
We celebrate Dr. John Keller's 48 years teaching in the art, architecture and design department and his newest collection of paintings inspired by his mother's extensive photography documenting Nebraska's wild flora. By recreating her photograph collection as vivid watercolor and gouache paintings, this project ensures her botanical passion and story endures across centuries. C. Lee Watts Jr. (1918–2006) was a distinguished American portrait and landscape painter whose prolific career bridged commercial illustration, fine art, and portraiture. He completed a celebrated commission of 22 portraits for Harding University. Faculty, alumni and current student work can be viewed throughout Stevens Art and Design Center.
11:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. — Latin Fest
Location: McInteer rotunda
Hosted by the Swaid Institute for International Education, Walton Scholars and friends.
4 p.m. — Leading with Purpose, Shaping Tomorrow
Location: McInteer 150
Panel moderated by Trustee Erin Brogdon, with panelists Dr. Amy Emerson, trustee; Dr. HyeJin Son, Distinguished Alumna for the College of Pharmacy; Lauryn Turner, Distinguished Alumna for the College of Arts and Sciences; and Jessie Wilson, 2025 Distinguished Young Alumna of the Year.
5 p.m. “Live at Five” broadcast
Location: Amy and Scott Sewell Digital Production Studio, Reynolds Center for Music and Communication
All alumni are invited to sit in the HU16 studio for a real time broadcast of “Live at Five.” The show is completely run by students working in production, broadcasting, journalism, film, graphic design and other creative areas. The energy in the studio is palpable as they navigate breaking stories, conduct int erviews and report on campus events. This dynamic environment fosters relationships as Harding students, faculty, staff and the Searcy community engage with the stories that matter. The program lasts exactly 30 minutes. If you can not attend the broadcast, you can watch it later at https://thelink.harding.edu/hu16/
5:30 p.m. Heritage Circle Banquet
Location: Founders Room, second floor of the David B. Burks American Heritage Building
Homecoming weekend is a special time for alumni to reconnect and relive cherished memories during the reunion festivities. Golden, Emerald, Platinum, Platinum Plus, Diamond and Diamond Plus Circles inductions and reunions will honor classes of ’74, ’69, ’64, ’59, ’54, ’49. Each inductee will receive two complimentary tickets, but if you would like to purchase more, you can find those at hardingtickets.com.
6-8 p.m. — Hors d'oeuvres Recepetion and Cookbook Signing with HUG chef Natasa Tsirmpa
Location: Holland-Waller Center 209
Enjoy a taste of Greece with Harding University in Greece chef, Nastasa Tsirmpa, while catching up with fellow HUG alumni over traditional Greek food. During this time, her cookbook will be available for purchase and you have the opportunity to receive a signed copy.
6 p.m. — Volleyball vs. Arkansas Tech
Location: Rhodes-Reaves Field House
Cheer on the Lady Bisons as they take on Arkansas Tech in a home volleyball match.
8 a.m. Black and Gold Visit Day
Location: Welcome Center, David B. Burks American Heritage Building lobby
Greeted by enthusiastic student ambassadors eager to share their insights, you can sign up for a tour of campus. Hosted by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, this is a one-day group visit event designed to provide a comprehensive overview of what Harding has to offer you. You will have the opportunity to tour campus, meet with professors, sit in on classes, meet current students and much more. For more information, please contact admissions@harding.edu.
10 a.m. Faith in the Workplace
Location: Mabee Business Building
Join us as several alumni and guests will present on topics such as business ethics, current issues in business and advice for business majors. Everyone is welcome to learn about how to be a Christian in the business world and further your career. There will be presentations from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Mabee building is home to many students and a center for academic growth and professional development, preparing students to thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.
10 a.m.- 3:30 p.m — Digital Forensics Lab Open House and Award Presentation
Location: Mabee Business Building 108
Come tour the facility, meet our team and learn more about the future of our lab. Discover how we support law enforcement across Arkansas and train the next generation of forensic professionals. There will be an award presentation at 12 p.m. in the Mabee lobby. Everyone is welcome.
11 a.m. Bison Booster Club golf tournament
Location: Course at River Oaks
Golfing during Homecoming weekend offers a delightful opportunity for friendly competition among alumni and current students. Check in at 11 a.m., and get ready for a shotgun start at precisely noon. This laid-back atmosphere combined with the excitement of Homecoming festivities makes for a memorable day of fun and nostalgia, celebrating both the sport and relationships that last a lifetime. Cost is $125 per person, $500 per team and/or $125 hole sponsorship. Contact Scott Finley directly at 501-268-1312 or email sfinley@farmersagent.com with any questions.
12 p.m. University Chorus Mini-Concert
Location: Reynolds Recital Hall
Open to visitors, choral alumni and family of current University Chorus members.
12 p.m. Preprofessional Health Sciences Alumni Panel
Location: Preprofessional Health Science Center, Pryor-England Science Center 151
Looking for on-campus lunch plans? Come hear from various health sciences alumni about their time at Harding while enjoying taco soup. Panelists will discuss their diverse experiences, offering valuable advice for navigating the transition from college to the workforce. This interactive session encourages guests to engage in meaningful conversations, helping them gain perspective on post graduation from Harding University.
5 p.m. Black & Gold Banquet
Location: University Dining Hall
Join us for a wonderful evening to be reminded of favorite Harding memories and celebrate with Harding heroes and distinguished alumni. Make sure to purchase tickets beforehand for $20 at the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations on the first floor of the David B. Burks American Heritage Building or online at hardingtickets.com.
2-4 p.m. — Ross Cochran Theological Studies Endowed Chair Event
Location: Ross Cochran Common Room, McInteer 236
Honor the legacy of Dr. Ross Cochran, a professor emeritus, who dedicated nearly four decades to equipping students for servant leadership.
2-3 p.m. — Carr College of Nursing Meet-and-Greet Alumna of the Year
Jennifer Cummings,
Location: Swaid Center for Health Sciences 233/234
Join us as we celebrate Jennifer Cummings as the Carr College of Nursing Alumna of the Year, reflecting on her dedication to her patients and families as a Registered Nurse for the pediatric nephrology clinic.
3-4 p.m. — Carr College of Nursing Reception
Location: Swaid Center for Health Sciences 201
Homecoming reception open to all Carr College of Nursing Alums.
3:30 p.m. — Dedication of Forvis Mazars Center of Accountancy
Location: Mabee Business Building lobby
Following the dedication, guests are invited to visit the center, enjoy refreshments, and help us celebrate this new space and the people whose generosity made it possible.
4 p.m. — 75 Years of Bands at Harding Performance
Location: Holland-Waller Student Commons
Celebrating 75 years of Bands at Harding with a presentation and performance by the Thundering Herd.
5:30-8:00 p.m. Department of Music Reunion
Location: Reynolds Center for Music and Communication lobby
Open to anyone who has been involved in music ensembles or academic programs, the reunion will be a come-and-go event from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Attendees can reminisce about their shared experiences, from late-night rehearsals to memorable concerts, while engaging in discussions about their musical journeys. Overall, the reunions not only honor the department’s legacy but also inspire the continued passion for music within the institution.
5:30 p.m. — Harding Academy Class Reunions '76, '01, '16
Location: Wildcat Park
Class of ‘76, ‘01, and ‘16, join us as we revisit old memories and reconnect with old friends.
6:30 p.m. — Harding Academy Homecoming Court followed by football game vs. Brookland
Location: First Security Stadium
Cheer on the Harding Academy Wildcat Football Team as they take on Brookland in a head-to-head game at home. The Homecoming court will be presented before the matchup.
7 p.m. African-American Alumni Association Coffee, Karaoke and Game Night
Location: Holland-Waller Student Commons
The new Holland-Waller Center is a beautiful connection between the iconic front lawn and Legacy Park. Go explore the building and then at 7 p.m. join the African American Alumni Association for a night of fellowship with games, karaoke and complimentary coffee. This is a great time to learn about where our alumni are now and hear exciting stories.
7:30 p.m. Homecoming Musical “Anastasia”
Location: Benson Auditorium
Step into the enchanting world of “Anastasia,” a captivating production that explores the themes of identity, hope and discovering where you belong. Follow Anastasia as she embarks on a journey to Paris in search of answers about her mysterious past, facing unexpected challenges along the way. Filled with beautiful music, adventure and heartfelt moments, this musical invites audiences to discover the power of embracing the past while defining their own future. Don’t miss the chance to experience this unforgettable story of courage, self-discovery and new beginnings! Purchase your ticket beforehand for $20 at the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations on the first floor of the David B. Burks American Heritage Building or online at hardingtickets.com. You can also purchase tickets for $25 at the door. Immediately following the musical, join the cast for a meet-and-greet in the Hammon Student Center.
8 p.m. — Bison 3K GLOW Run
Location: Bison Park.
HEAL at Harding, with the department of kinesiology, challenges you to Go Light Our World at the Bison 3K GLOW Run or Walk. Enjoy a fun jog or stroll around our beautiful campus and experience the GLOW zones that our student organizations, teams and clubs have for us! Free for students, $20 for early registration or $25 on the night of the race.
8 a.m. — Micah Rine Wildcat Legacy Race
Location: Harding Academy
The Micah Rine Wildcat Legacy Race is a 5K race and/or a 1-mile fun run/walk. The race begins in front of Harding Academy. Runners can sign up at the link above. Everyone is welcome to come celebrate Micah's legacy and cheer on the runners.
8:00-9:30 a.m — Sub T-16 Alumni Breakfast Reunion
Location: Founders Room, Heritage Building second floor
Chapel has always been a staple of the Harding experience. Come join as we remember the songs and share the memories of chapel with classmates. This reunion will last around 30 minutes. We hope you take time in the morning to worship and reminisce.
8:30–9:30 a.m. — President's Council Fall Breakfast Reception
Location: Cone Chapel
This come-and-go reception offers an opportunity to connect with fellow members of the Harding community, with the program beginning at 9:00 a.m.
9 a.m. Occupational Therapy Experiential Learning Lab Open House
Location: 605 E. Center St.
Renovated to simulate a typical home setting, the occupational therapy house allows students to practice hands-on skills in a real world setting.
Tour the space and see firsthand how our students are gaining practical experience. You'll have the chance to meet the students, hear about their learning journeys, and observe how they are applying their skills in a setting that mirrors the environments they'll encounter in their careers.
10 a.m.–12 p.m. — TNT Alumni Reunion
Location: Regions Room, Heritage Building second floor.
Reunite with fellow TNT alumni this Homecoming to relive memories and celebrate the bond that keeps TNT members cheering “Go Blue!”
10 a.m Alumni Chapel
Location: Anthony and Wright Administration Building Auditorium
Chapel has always been a staple of the Harding experience. Come join as we remember the songs and share the memories of chapel with classmates. This reunion will last around 30 minutes. We hope you take time in the morning to worship and reminisce.
10-11:30 a.m. — Home Economics and Family and Consumer Sciences 100-Year Alumni Reunion
Location: Olen Hendrix Building 200
Join us as we celebrate 100 years of Home Economics and Family and Consumer Sciences at Harding University! Reconnect with fellow alumni, share memories, honor our rich history and celebrate an exciting new chapter as we introduce the department's new name, Applied Human Sciences.
10-11:30 a.m. — MEPN Five-Year Alumni Brunch Reunion
Location: Swaid Center for Health Sciences 201
Join us as we celebrate five years of MEPN at Harding University!
10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Art and Design Open House
Location: Stevens Art Gallery
Join us for a reception celebrating Dr. John Keller's 48 years teaching in the art, architecture and design department and his newest collection of paintings inspired by his mother's extensive photography documenting Nebraska's wild flora. By recreating her photograph collection as vivid watercolor and gouache paintings, this project ensures her botanical passion and story endures across centuries. Stevens Gallery presents two exhibitions: Legacy in Kodachrome by John Keller and The Lee Watts Collection. Faculty, alumni and current student work can be viewed throughout Stevens Art and Design Center.
10 a.m.-2 p.m. — Art and Design Market
Location: Outside the main (southwest) entrance to the Stevens Art and Design Center, just off the front lawn
Student artists and designers will be selling original work. In the case of inclement weather, please visit the Harding Art and Design Instagram and
Facebook pages for location updates.
10 a.m.-2 p.m. — What We Have Loved: Outdoor Art Exhibition
Location: Front lawn
Join Harding alumna Kendra Neill for a special outdoor art exhibition featuring original artwork, prints for purchase and a children's art activity. Enjoy additional vendors offering flowers, food and more! A portion of
proceeds from all the vendors will benefit the Child Safety Center.
10 a.m- 12 p.m. — Harding Authors Fair
Location: Hammon Student Center in the front of the bookstore
Take this opportunity to meet local or alumni authors, purchase books, and get them autographed!
10:45 a.m.-12 p.m. — Alumni Reception Honoring 60 years of French Missions
Location: Holland-Waller Center 209
Foreign language reception honoring Winfred Wright, first French professor (1966) and first chair of the foreign language department with great mission focus in the French-speaking world through study and campaign tours,
followed by Robert McCready with his frequent study and mission programs.
11 a.m. Women’s Soccer vs. Oklahoma Baptist
Location: Stevens Soccer Complex
Come cheer on our Lady Bisons as they take on Oklahoma Baptist in a home soccer game.
11:30 a.m.- 2:45 p.m. Harding Family Picnic
Location: Bison Park
Your lunch plans are made! There will be a food truck court located on the west side of the Ganus Activities Complex. Meal seating will be available for you to enjoy your meal while catching up with other Harding family. Space for reunion classes from 2021, 2016, 2011, 2006, 2001, 1996, 1991, 1986, 1981, 1976, 1971, 1966, 1961, 1956, 1951 will be available as well. Enjoy inflatable games inside the GAC, as well as a petting zoo in Bison Park.
Other tailgates include:
12:40 p.m. — Bison Football Brotherhood Walk.
Location: Bison Park
Line up in front of the Ganus Activities Complex and cheer on the Harding Bison football team.
1 p.m. Bison Stop Ticket Trailer for Football Tickets
Location: First Security Stadium
If you are at the tailgate, you can purchase football tickets at the ticket trailer parked by First Security Stadium. Tickets are $15 for reserved seating or $10 for general admission. Harding students get in free with their ID. You can also purchase tickets ahead of time online through at hardingtickets.com.
2:30 p.m. — Thundering Herd Marching Band Tailgate Performance
Location: Bison Park
Get in the Homecoming spirit with a lively performance by the Thundering Herd as they bring Bison pride tothe tailgate!
3 p.m. Bison football vs. Southern Nazarene University
Location: First Security Stadium
The Bison football team has been unstoppable this year following their NCAA Division II national championship win in 2023 and their runner-up placement in 2025. Come cheer them on as they play Southern Nazarene University. At halftime, we will honor our Homecoming queen.
4-7 p.m. — Triple M Home Bible Study Reunion
Location: Home of Jay and Ruth Simpson, 171 Triple M Rd.
A gathering for anyone who attended our Home Bible Study from approximately 2011-2020. We will sing and eat, just like old times! Contact Jay or Ruth Simpson for more information at 501-230-6623.
6:30 p.m. Sankofa Gala
Location: Cone Chapel
The Sankofa Gala is sponsored by the Harding University African American Alumni Association. Tickets are $40, and the theme is “Change. Healing. Growth.” The gala is a time to honor the contributions of African Americans at Harding, learn from the past, reconcile past hurts and bridge the racial divide. It will be atime to celebrate our oneness in Christ. Come sing, fellowship and celebrate. Tickets are and will be available in the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations or online at hardingtickets.com through Oct. 21. All proceeds will go toward the Harding University African American Alumni Current Use Scholarship Fund.
6-10 p.m. — MANAFEST
Location: Midnight Oil Park
Brought to you by Mana Nutrition, Good Spread and Kibo Group. Manafest will feature live music from Grammy-nominated duo, The Secret Sisters and the Good Spread Manabago.
7:00 p.m. — Homecoming musical “Anastasia”
Location: Benson Auditorium
Tickets are $22 in the alumni office or online at hardingtickets.com or $27 at the door. Immediately following the musical, join the cast for a meet-and-greet in the Hammon Student Center.
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