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Celebrating the Class of 1974’s Golden Reunion

April 26, 2024 Mason Duebner

At the beginning of April, Hardin-Simmons University celebrated the class of 1974’s Golden Reunion, an annual event that brings together alumni who graduated fifty years ago. To celebrate this monumental achievement, the alumni of 1974 were awarded commemorative plaques, participated in unique activities and experiences on campus, and, most importantly, were inducted into the Golden Lariat Society.Ìý

As the alumni gathered on campus, they were invited to several catered events, including the Reunion Luncheon and Memory Banquet. In addition to the more formal events, they were also invited to participate in several activities reflecting on their time at ĵµ¤Ö±²¥, such as touring through campus to see the changes that have been made since their time in class here. One of the most memorable portions of their return to ĵµ¤Ö±²¥ was their visit to Logsdon Chapel, where they could worship with current students.Ìý

ĵµ¤Ö±²¥’s current students helped provide a welcoming experience for the class of ’74, as well. The Cowboy Band played a private concert to welcome the returning alumni back to campus. The current student government also provided speakers to help recognize members of the Class of 1974 during .

Sylvia Villareal being presented with her commemorative Golden Reunion plaque

Sylvia Villareal being presented with her commemorative Golden Reunion plaque.

Golden Reunion isn’t just about the class of 1974’s time at Hardin-Simmons, however, it’s also about how ĵµ¤Ö±²¥ helped prepare them for the successful lives they went on to lead. Sylvia Villareal, ’74, went on to teach kindergarten for thirty-seven years, a lifelong achievement that has seen her help hundreds of children begin their journey through school-life. “The spiritual aspect of Hardin-Simmons was important,” she mentioned when asked about what set ĵµ¤Ö±²¥ apart from the other colleges of her youth. “ĵµ¤Ö±²¥ provided a strong foundation in Spanish that helped me serve bilingual and Hispanic students throughout my career.” Ìý

Mrs. Villareal’s feelings toward ĵµ¤Ö±²¥ aren’t unique; each member of the class of ’74 attributes parts of their growth to Hardin-Simmons. In turn, they have each left a piece of themselves here, shepherding forth our current students in spirit.Ìý

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