FOREST CITY, Iowa, Oct. 7, 2026 – Waldorf University will welcome alumni, families, friends and community members to campus Oct. 9-10 for Homecoming weekend, celebrating the university’s history and traditions while recognizing a distinguished group of alumni, coaches, student athletes and teams.

This year’s Homecoming will recognize 12 individuals and one team through the university’s Athletic Hall of Fame, Team of Honor, Distinguished Service Award and Lifetime Achievement Award.

The 2026 Athletic Hall of Fame class with be inducted Friday, Oct. 9 with dinner beginning at 5 p.m. in the Boman Fine Arts Center. The Hall of Fame honors individuals whose accomplishments have made a lasting impact on Waldorf athletics. This year’s inductees are Edgar Baxton 1974, who coached football, wrestling and volleyball; baseball standout Erin Janss 1979; football standout Derek MacCready 1986; and Rachael (Masner) Jones 2003, 2005, who competed in women’s basketball and volleyball.

The 2004 softball team will be recognized as Waldorf’s 2026 Team of Honor on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. in the Boman Fine Arts Center. The team will be honored for their accomplishments that have earned them a lasting place in Waldorf’s athletic history.

Later Saturday morning, the All-Guest and Class Reunion Luncheon will feature a presentation of this year’s Distinguished Service and Lifetime Achievement Awards beginning at 11 a.m. in the Atrium. The 2026 Distinguished Service Award recipients are Denny Jerome 1970, Steve Lovik 1975, Kathy (Hennessey) Jerome 1976 and Pat (Cooper) Lovik 1976. The award recognizes alumni who have demonstrated exceptional service and commitment to Waldorf University and the community. Kevin Monson 1971 and Jeriann (Ritter) Leary 1997 will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of their significant accomplishments and lasting contributions.

For more information, to register for Homecoming events or to view the full schedule, visit waldorf.edu/homecoming.