Wayland Baptist University Announces Homecoming Candidates
The university has named its homecoming court candidates and recipients for the annual Blue and Gold Awards Banquet.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Awards
Wayland Baptist University in Plainview has revealed the 15 students selected as candidates for its 2026 Homecoming court. The university will also recognize several individuals for their contributions to the school during an upcoming awards ceremony.
Why it matters
These awards and homecoming traditions serve to honor alumni, educators, and benefactors while engaging the current student body. The events celebrate the history of the institution and the contributions of those connected to the Plainview campus.
The university has nominated 9 candidates for Homecoming queen and 6 candidates for Homecoming king. Recipients are scheduled to be honored at the Blue and Gold Awards Banquet beginning at 6 p.m.
The players
Wayland Baptist University
This private university located in Plainview offers various academic programs and maintains long-standing campus traditions.
Dr. Phillip Aday
He is an educator being honored as a Distinguished Alumnus by the university.
Rev. Chris Riley
He is being recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus for his contributions to the institution.
Randy and Carol Kaufman
The pair will receive the Distinguished Benefactor Award for their support of the university.
Marisabelle Trevino
She is the recipient of the Distinguished Young Alumnus Award.
The details
The Blue and Gold Awards Banquet, held at the Trinity Building Chapel, will honor Dr. Phillip Aday and Rev. Chris Riley as Distinguished Alumni. Additional awards will be presented to Randy and Carol Kaufman, Marisabelle Trevino, Anthony Wagner, and Dana West.
Timeline
The Blue and Gold Awards Banquet is scheduled for October 23, 2026, at 6 p.m.
Culture Shift
These awards reflect the traditional model of university engagement that prioritizes legacy and institutional loyalty. This ceremony follows the historical collegiate tradition of homecoming court nominations, maintaining long-standing academic cultural practices.
Residents and students should note the scheduled event in the Trinity Building Chapel may impact local campus parking and traffic flow. Participants and attendees are encouraged to arrive early for the 6 p.m. start time.
The takeaway
Homecoming season provides a consistent opportunity for the local community to engage with institutional achievements. Attendees should verify specific seating or ticket requirements for university banquets held in smaller venues like the campus chapel.
Further reading
For more information on university recognition programs, see our Awards section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kcbd.
