Bennett College Friends and Family Weekend: A Centennial Celebration Like No Other
For 100 years, Bennett College has been a place where women learn, lead, and leave a lasting impact on the world. This October, alumni, families, students, and friends are invited back to campus for one of the most anticipated moments of the Centennial Celebration: Bennett College Friends and Family Weekend.
Held October 8–11, 2026, the weekend celebrates Bennett’s rich history while honoring the generations of women who have shaped its legacy. Under the theme “Beyond Bearden: A Celebration of Excellence”, the weekend blends tradition, scholarship, fellowship, and celebration into four unforgettable days, culminating in the Bennett College Friends and Family Weekend.
Whether you’re returning to campus, visiting for the first time, or celebrating alongside a Bennett Belle, Bennett College Friends and Family Weekend offers meaningful opportunities to reconnect with the Bennett community while experiencing the next chapter in the College’s remarkable 100-year story.
Thursday, October 8
Pearls of Distinction: Academic Showcase
The weekend begins with an evening dedicated to the academic excellence that has defined Bennett College for generations. Guests are invited to explore faculty and student work while engaging with the innovative programs shaping today’s Bennett experience.
Time: 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Location: Steele Hall Art Gallery & Student Union Foyer
Friday, October 9
Beyond Bearden: A Celebration of Excellence Luncheon
One of the signature events of the weekend, this luncheon recognizes the accomplishments, leadership, and enduring impact of the Bennett community while celebrating a century of excellence.
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Location: The Global Learning Center at Bennett College
Power in Pearls: A Walk Through 100 Years
Experience Bennett’s remarkable journey through an immersive celebration highlighting the people, milestones, and traditions that have defined the institution for a century.
The Diamond Affair
Friday evening concludes with one of the Centennial’s premier celebrations, bringing together alumni, supporters, and friends for an elegant evening honoring Bennett College’s extraordinary legacy.
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: The Global Learning Center at Bennett College
Saturday, October 10
Family & Friends Cookout
Reconnect with classmates, meet current students, and enjoy an afternoon of fellowship on campus during this family-friendly gathering.
Time: 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Location: Campus Quad
Miss Bennett College Coronation
One of Bennett’s most cherished traditions, the Miss Bennett College Coronation celebrates leadership, scholarship, and the continued excellence of Bennett women.
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel
Sunday, October 11
Founders Day Convocation
The weekend concludes with Founders Day Convocation, honoring the vision, resilience, and legacy that have guided Bennett College for 100 years.
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel
Centennial Brunch
Following Convocation, guests are invited to continue the celebration over brunch as the Bennett community reflects on a memorable weekend together.
Location: Cafeteria
Join the Centennial Celebration
Mark your calendar for October 8–11, 2026, and experience Friends & Family Weekend as Bennett College celebrates 100 years of excellence, resilience, and sisterhood.
We look forward to welcoming you back to campus.
