Alexandra Cordoba – Loveland, Colorado … Hundreds of alumni reconnected at Campion Academy (CA) in Loveland, Colorado, reminiscing about old times, September 20-21. The event included musical performances, church and vespers services, time to catch up with friends, and friendly volleyball and soccer competitions.
Shelley Stroh, Class of 1974, expressed why she thinks it’s important to come back to these reunions: “Our class was so close while we were in the dorm, and it’s awesome to be able to rekindle those friendships. It’s really nice to be able to encourage one another, pray for one another, and it’s just been a really amazing experience.”
The weekend kicked off with an evening vespers service on September 20, where CA students and adults alike shared heartfelt testimonies from their time canvassing. The night ended with a performance by the CA choir of “The Prayer.”
At the church service on September 21, the honor classes, or graduating classes with the year ending in four or nine, were recognized. Alumni of the Year awards were presented to Anne (Lucero) Wham, Class of 1964, for her service to the community while Ryan Hoover, Class of 1998, was honored for his service in the work of God. Jim and Shirley Turner were inducted to the Hall of Faith for their dedication to the students and staff with over 40 years of combined service at Campion Academy.
The church service featured performances from the orchestra, the Koinonia choir, and the handbell ensemble. Kay Kuzma, Class of 1959, was the speaker for the church service. In her sermon, she encouraged people to learn to embrace the plans God has for your life and how you should always aspire for something greater.
In the afternoon, honor class members gathered to celebrate their reunions.
That evening, Lisa Wham-Hickman, Class of 1989, performed a concert during sundown worship in which she sang some of her family’s favorite songs, alongside her aunt, husband, and mother.
The current CA students and alumni also competed in soccer and volleyball games. Alumni were victorious in the soccer game winning six to two and dominated the volleyball game winning three to zero.
Arthur Lee Hatfield, Class of 1984, reminisced on his time in sports and outreach. “We had ski trips, a gymnastics team, a flag football team, basketball, and volleyball,” he recalled. “Instead of competing against other schools, we went to other small Adventist schools and set up clinics for the kids. We would do a little worship program on the weekends when we were there for Sabbath School, church, and vespers.”
Milka Mendoza, Class of 2021, reflected on why she came back this year: “It wasn’t my honor year, but I just wanted to come back because Campion feels like home. It makes me feel warm, and I will always love it here.”
—Alexandra Cordoba is student editor in Campion Academy news team. Photos supplied.