A collection of familiar faces returned to campus this week as PNWU hosted Homecoming 2023.
Over 100 PNWU community members – including 52 PNWU Alumni – took part in a weekend of fun-filled festivities, including a social gathering at campus-neighboring Public House, a golf tournament at the Apple Tree Resort, a tour of the MLC, and a lively alumni & friends dinner hosted on our campus’ west lawn.
The evening was soundtracked by local band American Honey and highlighted by a “raise the paddle” auction. In the end, guests celebrated the establishment of PNWU’s Alumni Endowed Scholarship, capping off the University’s inaugural Week of Giving which raised over $86,000 in support of our students.
“There’s nothing like seeing old friends and colleagues reunite!” exclaimed Lesley Kerns, PNWU’s Associate Director of Development Events and Communications. “It was so gratifying seeing them reconnect to share stories about PNWU’s impact on them.
For many of the attending alums, the multi-program health sciences campus was almost entirely new. Some spoke of their interviews taking place in Iron Horse, as there was no Butler-Haney Hall to interview in. Others commented on BHH’s completion, and the single wing it once was. “They were all so proud of what PNWU has grown into,” said Kerns.
Representatives from all of PNWU’s programs, along with folks from the Northwest Interprofessional Health Collaborative (NIHC), helped to lead community and alumni tours of campus, including a detailed look at our newly completed MultiCare Learning Center and Watson Hall.
Kerns explained that the group would now begin shifting their focuses to “PNWU on Tour,” which will bring alumni together in neighborhoods throughout our five-state region and beyond for unique social engagement events.
“As we look at our Homecoming & Reunion for 2024, we anticipate increased participation, excitement and involvement,” Kerns added. “Stay tuned for more information on both PNWU on Tour and Homecoming 2024!”