Southern Wesleyan University Celebrates a Weekend of Milestones, Competition, and Community at Homecoming 2026
Apr 10, 2026
CENTRAL, SC – As Southern Wesleyan University marks 120 years of faith and learning, the campus welcomed alumni, students, families, and community partners to campus for Homecoming 2026, a weekend marked by meaningful milestones, strong attendance, and a full slate of academic, athletic, and fine arts events.
The weekend kicked off Friday with a ribbon cutting for the School of Nursing in Terry Hall, marking a major milestone for Southern Wesleyan University, celebrating the transformation of the facility into a clinical training space designed to address critical healthcare workforce needs in the Upstate. The ribbon cutting brought together University leadership, elected officials, healthcare partners, and community representatives to mark the beginning of a new chapter for nursing education at SWU.
Saturday’s events began with the Homecoming Lunch at the Track, where alumni and guests gathered before a full afternoon of athletics, fine arts performances, and campus activities.
SWU Athletics gave Homecoming fans a lot to celebrate, with a women’s lacrosse win on Senior Day and a softball doubleheader sweep.
The University’s production of The Prince of Egypt drew near-capacity audiences in both the 2pm and 7pm showings, showcasing the talent of SWU students and providing a powerful theatrical experience for attendees.
The weekend also offered a closer look at SWU’s future in healthcare education, with an open house of the School of Nursing facility in Terry Hall, giving visitors an opportunity to tour the newly renovated space and learn more about the program ahead of its anticipated launch.
The day concluded with an Alumni Dinner attended by more than 90 guests, where Southern Wesleyan University recognized Marsha K. Perrotte as the 2026 Alumnus of the Year. Perrotte, Director of Construction Management at AnMed Health, leads major healthcare development projects across the Upstate and is a two-time SWU graduate with a long-standing career in healthcare leadership and service.
“Homecoming is always a special time for SWU, but this year carried a unique sense of momentum,” said Rev. Emily Holley, Associate Vice President of Advancement and Executive Director of Church Engagement and Alumni. “From celebrating the launch of our School of Nursing to seeing our students excel in athletics and the arts, the weekend really reflected the strength and spirit of the SWU community.”
Class of 1975
Class of 1976
The weekend provided a meaningful way to celebrate 120 years of Southern Wesleyan University, with strong attendance and many alumni coming back to campus to celebrate the milestone.
For more information about Southern Wesleyan University, visit www.swu.edu
About Southern Wesleyan University
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused, faith-filled community that offers inventive learning experiences. The university endeavors to prepare its students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to www.swu.edu.
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