HSU Family Dinners Bring Alumni Together Statewide and Internationally

Staying connected has always been a staple of Hardin-Simmons culture. HSU Family Dinners help alumni, faculty, students, and even prospective students stay connected with Hardin-Simmons across the state and even internationally.  

According to Jenn Waldmann, HSU’s Director of Annual Giving, “Not everybody can get back to HSU. So through these dinners, we’re bringing a touch of HSU with us.”

The dinners provide an opportunity for alumni of all ages to connect. Last month, the alumni in Houston were even surprised with a visit from a graduate of the class of 1941. 

This year, the HSU Family Dinners provide alumni a chance to meet and visit with HSU’s new president Eric Bruntmyer. “Eric is a huge supporter of family,” Waldmann said. “These events are really important to him.”

Upcoming HSU Family Dinners will be held May 25 (San Antonio), June 9 (Dallas/Fort Worth), September 14 (Amarillo), September 15 (Odessa/Midland), and November 13 (Waco).

On Saturday July 1, Hardin-Simmons will also hold its second International Family Dinner in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. “Family is so important in Asian cultures,” said Trey Hudgens, HSU’s Director of Global Engagement.

The international dinner will allow alumni and prospective students overseas to experience the Hardin-Simmons family culture and connect with President Bruntmyer, according to Grey Hoff, Assistant to the President for University Marketing and Global Engagement. 

The dinners allow friends and family to gather together in fellowship. Expanding this dinner overseas will help spread the message and witness of Hardin-Simmons University beyond than the Texas borders.  “The HSU family touches Abilene, Texas, and ultimately, the world,” he said.