Autumn at the Arbor : An SAU Homecoming

Beckett Speaker Series - Dean Lockwood '82 Women's Basketball Associate Head Coach, Michigan State University

Coach Lockwood spent 15 seasons as the assistant coach at University of Tennessee, working with the men's and women's basketball programs, including two National Championships in 2007 and 2008, and three Final Four appearances.

Beginning his eighth year at Michigan State University, Coach Lockwood provides player development for the women's basketball team. He is a member of the Bay County Sports Hall of Fame and Spring Arbor University Athletic Hall of Fame.

Following the lunch, Coach Lockwood will share stories from his 40+ years of coaching experience and how God has guided his journey, from Spring Arbor all the way to the NCAA basketball court.

A complimentary lunch buffet is included. Parking is available at The Arbor Church. Please register online by September 23, 2026.

Register Today!

SAU Serves – SAU students and employees join up to give back to our Spring Arbor and Jackson communities through various service opportunities. 

8:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.

Jackson and Spring Arbor

42^nd Arbor Games – One of SAU’s longest standing traditions, Arbor Games (Field Day for college students) always provides an electric atmosphere full of fun and laughter. Eggs will fly, banners will wave, and the 2026 torch bearer will be revealed.

2:00 P.M.

DeCan Field

Women's Soccer vs. Huntington University - be sure to come out and cheer on our women's soccer team as they take on Huntington.

7:00 P.M.

Cougar Soccer Complex

Alumni Awards Dinner - Each year, we pause to honor alumni who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to their calling, service to their communities, and a total commitment to Jesus Christ. We invite you to join us in celebrating the 2026 award recipients.

Register Today!

6:00 P.M.

Kresge Student Center | Ralph Carey Forum 

Alumni Baseball Game - There’s a certain energy at Burbridge Field when the sun goes down and the stadium lights turn on. Join us for an unforgettable night of nostalgia and high-velocity action as our current Cougars take on the SAU Alumni. Whether you’re stepping back onto the dirt or cheering from the bleachers, come celebrate the past, present, and future of Spring Arbor Baseball.

7:00 P.M.

Burbridge Field

Cougar Madness - Join students, staff, and young alumni for the most electric night in the MAC! Meet the 2026 men’s and women’s basketball teams, compete in on-court games for prizes, and snag the official Cougar Madness t-shirt. Don’t miss the tip-off to an incredible homecoming and basketball season!

10:00 P.M.

McDonald Athletic Center (MAC)

Donut Dash 5K - Whether you’re walking or running, the Donut Dash has become a Homecoming favorite as you make your way around SAU’s campus. Most importantly, there will be donuts at every mile mark and at the finish! All proceeds go to support SAU Track and Cross Country and SOAR Jackson. 

Register Today!

9:30 A.M.

McDonald Athletic Center

E.P. Hart Brunch and Homecoming Kick-Off - Start your Homecoming weekend with worship, fellowship, and a delicious brunch! We’ll hear from a current student and a presidential address from Dr. Brent Ellis.

At this event we also recognize members of our E.P. Hart Club and our 50th anniversary class. The E.P. Hart Club is comprised of Spring Arbor alumni who have celebrated their 50th class reunion. This year we are excited to induct the class of 1976 into this special club. 

Register Today!

10:00 A.M.

Kresge Student Center | Ralph Carey Forum

Women’s Basketball Intersquad Scrimmage- Bring the family and cheer on our women’s basketball team as they gear up for another winning season! Enjoy a great atmosphere at the MAC as the team showcases their talent in this annual Homecoming scrimmage.

10:00 A.M.

McDonald Athletic Center (MAC)

Softball Alumni Game- Celebrate the past and present of Cougar Softball! Join us as our talented alumni dust off their gloves and take the field against the current Cougar roster. Don’t miss this fun Homecoming tradition!

11:00 A.M.

Softball Field

Tennis Pro-Am - Game, set, match! Experience the action as SAU Tennis alumni take on the current Cougar team. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a casual observer, come enjoy a morning of great volleys and legendary Cougar competition.

11:00 A.M.

Jones Tennis Complex

Science Atrium Open House - This atrium is a fantastic new addition to our Whiteman Gibbs Science Center, so be sure to check it out and learn more about phase 2 of our science center expansion coming soon!

11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M.

Whiteman Gibbs Science Center Atrium

Esports Facility Tour and Interactive Gaming - Have you seen our new esports facility yet? If not, this is a fun new addition to our campus that you have to see. While you're there, swing by the Cougar Den where you can meet our new coach and watch our athletes play some of the games they play in competition!

11:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Cougar Den/esports facility

Homecoming Festival - Celebrate Autumn at the Arbor with a full afternoon of festivities! Before the big soccer game, join us for a festival packed with games, pumpkin painting, donuts, cider, and inflatables. Browse our local vendor fair, grab a bite from the food trucks, and enjoy live music with the SAU family!

• Alumni: Hoping to enjoy food trucks at the 

  Homecoming Festival but don't want to break the bank? Each registration is $5 but includes a food truck voucher! Register online or on Homecoming Day at our welcome tent.

• Students: Be one of the first 100 students to visit the Welcome Tent with your ID to snag a free voucher!

Register Today!

11:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M.

TBD

50^th Class Reunion (1976) - We are proud to welcome back the Class of 1976 for this landmark anniversary! Join fellow classmates for an afternoon of storytelling, nostalgic yearbook browsing, and fellowship over a complimentary lunch. We can’t wait to celebrate your 50-year legacy. 

Register Today!

12:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.

TBD

25^th Class Reunion (2001) - Can you believe it’s been 25 years? It’s time to get the Class of 2001 back together! Join us to swap stories, see how much the campus has grown, and reconnect with the friends who made the Arbor home. Light refreshments provided.

Register Today!

12:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Kresge Student Center

Student Leader Reunion - Calling all former and current student leaders! Join us for an afternoon of storytelling and connection. Swap memories with fellow alumni and meet the students currently leading on campus. Featuring some very special guests—you won’t want to miss this gathering! Light refreshments provided.

Register Today!

12:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Kresge Student Center

Homecoming Soccer Game - Bring your energy and wear your best SAU gear as we cheer on our men's soccer team as they face Taylor for our Homecoming Soccer Game!

3:00 P.M.

Cougar Soccer Complex

Homecoming Hoedown - The conclusion to Homecoming weekend for our students, this event has become a favorite to many. Dress up in your best western attire and learn how to line dance like a pro.

8:00 P.M.

Plaza