More than 800 people gathered at Avondale University Church on August 22–23 for Homecoming 2025, including more than 300 alumni from honour years—five from the graduating class of 1955.
The weekend began with a Friday evening program that featured nostalgic images, music from across the decades and a Sabbath-opening message. Avondale University chancellor and South Pacific Division president Pastor Glenn Townend closed the evening in prayer.
On Sabbath morning, around 110 alumni attended a devotional program before the 11am service filled University Church. The service, led by Dr Leigh Rice, featured an orchestra and choir of 80 alumni and community members under the direction of Dr Aleta King.
Alumni of the Year recipient Dr Brendan Pratt, recently appointed president of the Australian Union Conference, presented the main message.
Avondale vice chancellor Professor Malcolm Coulson presented the Alumni of the Year award to Dr Pratt, in recognition for his leadership in faith communities across the South Pacific and the wider Church, particularly in secular and post-Christian contexts. He graduated from Avondale in 1995.
Alumna of the Year was awarded to Dr Dawn Grant-Skiba (Master of Teaching, 2015) for her dedication to providing equitable education for children with disabilities and diverse learning backgrounds. She recently completed a PhD through Avondale.
2015 Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Teaching graduate Anna Lindbeck (née Beaden), was awarded Young Alumni of the Year for her service through teaching and music, alongside her current involvement in a world-first cross-country cycling fundraiser for suicide prevention.
Professor Coulson also acknowledged the contribution of alumni Julie Jackson (Dip Tch, 1975) and Jarrod Cherry (BA/BTch (Sec), 2015) in the education sector, and Pastor Norman Young (BA Theol, 1965) for his lifetime of service in theology and teaching.
The weekend concluded with Sing Praise: The Gospel Edition, which featured ensembles and guest musicians performing gospel favourites and brought the gathering to a celebratory close.
