The Life Pacific University community gathered in full force at this year’s Alumni & Friends Luncheon, held during Foursquare Connection 2025 in the Adams Ballroom of the Gaylord Rockies Convention Center in Denver, Colorado. Marking the largest turnout in event history with more than 550 alumni and friends in attendance, the luncheon offered a powerful blend of joyful reconnection, heartfelt recognition, and shared purpose as LPU alumni from across generations came together to celebrate what God continues to do through their lives and ministries.
Guests enjoyed a time of fellowship over a delicious meal, with space to reunite with longtime friends and meet new members of the LPU family. The energy in the room reflected the strength of the university’s legacy and the passion of alumni who are actively living out their callings in churches, communities, and industries around the world.
Honoring the 2025 Alumni of the Year
A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the 2025 Alumni of the Year Awards, honoring five exceptional leaders whose faith-filled work is making a lasting difference:
- Dr. Cliff Hanes & Rev. Mari Hanes – Lifetime of Service Award
- Rev. Dennisa Bumgardner – Kingdom Leadership Alumnus of the Year
- Rev. Naomi Lyford – Beyond Borders Alumnus of the Year
- Rev. Gregg Johnson – Entrepreneurial Spirit Alumnus of the Year
In addition to receiving their awards, several of this year’s honorees offered Spirit-filled prayers and heartfelt words of encouragement over the university, calling forth God’s continued favor, provision, and anointing over LPU’s future.
Their stories and blessings serve as powerful reminders of the impact of a Christ-centered education and a life devoted to Kingdom purpose.
A Special Tribute to the Class of 2024 Honorees
In a meaningful moment of reflection, the LPU community also took time to recognize the 2024 Alumni of the Year, whose awards were originally presented during last year’s reception at Connection 2024. This year’s luncheon provided a more formal opportunity to celebrate their ongoing influence:
- Dr. Sterling Brackett – Lifetime of Service Award
- Rev. Shanon Hladek – Beyond Borders Alumnus of the Year
- Rev. Robert Rufener – Beyond Borders Alumnus of the Year
- Rev. Chantal Edler – Kingdom Leadership Alumnus of the Year
Looking Forward
Whether you joined us in person or are celebrating from afar, the 2025 Alumni & Friends Luncheon was a reminder of the powerful community LPU represents. We’re grateful for every individual who makes up this growing global family.
If you attended the luncheon, we invite you to complete the Post-Event Survey to help us improve future gatherings. You can also relive the event through photos on this page and watch the recap video to revisit the joy and connection of the day.
Thank you for being part of the Life Pacific University story. We look forward to what God will continue to do—through you.
