CBU Homecoming draws more than 4,500 to campus

RIVERSIDE (February 20, 2012) – California Baptist University's homecoming celebration, February 17 & 18, drew more than 4,500 to the Riverside campus for a weekend of alumni, student and family activities.

This year's Homecoming theme, "One World, One Mission," celebrates the university's 15th year of global ministry. Since 1997, CBU has sent out some 2,500 participants to 49 countries through its international and domestic service projects.

Friday night's program featured a bonfire, pep rally and the crowning of seniors Sammy Ramos as Homecoming King and Kelly Leonard as Homecoming Queen. Led by the Lancer cheerleaders and CBU Crazies, the crowd cheered as the second annual bonfire was ignited, followed by a concert by The Daylights.

The Alumni Awards Banquet held Friday evening recognized professional and athletic achievement. John Tavaglione, a 1987 business graduate, was named Alumnus of the Year. Tavaglione currently serves as a Riverside County Supervisor for the second district. Chrystal Kern, a 1976 accounting and criminal justice graduate was honored with the Lancer Medal. Kern serves as the Chief Financial Officer for the American Israeli Public Affairs Committee and is a member of the advisory council for the Robert K. Jabs School of Business.

During the banquet, three former athletes were inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame. They included Yajaira Prado Cadet, 2004-05 women's volleyball; Steven Ferreira , 2001-04 baseball; and Milton Browne, 1996-99 track and field.

Saturday featured the third annual Block Party. The program included the second annual Lancer 5000 5k Walk and Run, artisan walk, live entertainment, department booths, interactive activities and Little Lancer Land for children featuring inflatable attractions and pony rides.

The Lancer Lot Tailgate party generated excitement prior to the evening women's and men's basketball games against Dixie State in the sold-out Van Dyne Gym. Women's basketball defeated Dixie State 71-67, while the men lost 67-70.

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