LHSON Hosts Annual Alumni Reunion

On Saturday, September 18, over 100 alumni gathered at the Baylor University Louise Herrington School of Nursing Academic Building in Dallas for our annual Alumni Reunion. Although the event normally recognizes all graduates celebrating their 50th, 40th, and 30th anniversaries, this year was made doubly special as we honored not only the classes of 1971, 1981, and 1991, but also the classes of 1970, 1980, and 1990.

Many of the alums came early to mingle and visit with fellow Baylor alums before the luncheon began. They also enjoyed browsing the “pop-up shops” such as, the Baylor Bookstore for keepsake goodies and Smokin' Hot Chix, LLC offering spicy sauces, rubs and marinades. There was also be an informational table to learn about the Sigma Theta Tau International Eta Gamma Chapter at the LHSON and the nursing school’s domestic and global missions efforts.

Attendees visited the nursing school campus to learn about all of the exciting happenings at LHSON, including the installment of our new Dean, Dr. Linda Plank. A Baylor graduate and long-time LHSON faculty member and administrator, Dean Plank served as Interim Dean before being selected for the role full-time earlier this year.

During the Alumni Reunion luncheon, attendees enjoyed a music video, Let Them See Jesus. The video features a song written by Class of 2013 alumnae, Bekah Lemonds and Bethany Gebhard. The video was produced by generous and long-time supporters of the nursing school, Lisa Stepp, an LHSON grad and her late sister, Dr. Kathy Tinius, a Baylor alum. The video was especially touching and poignant, given Dr. Tinius’ recent passing this summer. The luncheon provided a time to commemorate the lives of Dr. Tinius and Wayne Tucker, both of whom previously received the Friend of Nursing Award.

It was also our privilege to continue the tradition of honoring several outstanding individuals with awards to acknowledge their commitment and support of nursing.
• LHSON Distinguished Recent UG Graduate Award
Brennen Bassett
• LHSON Distinguished Recent DNP Graduate Award
Dr. Katy Vogelaar
• LHSON Friend of Nursing Award
Nancy Withrow
• LHSON Distinguished Alumni Award
Dr. Sarah J. Williams

After the luncheon the Baylor Football game against Kansas was shown on the large screen in the Activity Room for all to watch and cheer on our Baylor Bears! Complimentary football snacks and beverages were available to enjoy as well as Baylor stadium cups and pom poms. Simultaneously, some of the alums also enjoyed touring both the Academic Building and Clinical Simulation Building led by current nursing students.

In addition, we are grateful to those that contributed to our goal of raising $15,000 in gifts and pledges. Thank you for your generosity and for making meaningful difference in the lives of future Baylor nurses. Now, more than ever, the impact of nurses is felt worldwide. LHSON is leading the way by holistically preparing and educating students in mind and spirit to fulfill their calling. Your investment in Baylor Nursing through a gift will support future Baylor nurses as they Learn.Lead.Serve.®