Fifty years after receiving their degrees, members of Asbury Theological Seminary’s Class of 1976 returned to campus for Golden Grad Weekend, held May 7-9, 2026. The gathering brought together more than forty alumni and spouses from across the United States for a meaningful time of fellowship, remembrance, and gratitude as they celebrated a half-century of ministry and service since graduation.
Throughout the weekend, alumni reflected on lives spent faithfully serving Christ in a wide range of contexts, including pastoral ministry, missions, chaplaincy, education, church planting, nonprofit leadership, and denominational work. Their stories offered a powerful testimony to the far-reaching impact of an Asbury education and a lifetime of obedience to God’s call.
Hosted by Rev. Dr. Tammy Cessna and the Alumni Office, alongside a dedicated team of staff, the reunion provided numerous opportunities for connection and celebration. The Seminary’s Global Alumni Center served as a gathering place throughout the weekend, welcoming graduates as they shared memories, renewed friendships, and reflected on God’s faithfulness over the decades.
The festivities began with check-in at the Residence Inn and continued on Friday with a guided tour of campus led by Dexter Porter, who was a Golden Graduate himself this weekend. Two other Staff and Faculty Members, Dr. Steve Martyn and Rev. Danny Key, were also among the Golden Graduate class of 1976.
Rev. Danny Key and Dr. David Watson
Alumni then gathered for lunch in Cordelia Dining Hall with president Dr. David Watson before receiving commemorative medallions and leather-bound Bibles in recognition of this significant milestone. For many, one of the most moving moments came while visiting the Seminary’s graduate wall and locating their names among generations of Asbury alumni. The experience stirred treasured memories and prompted heartfelt conversations among classmates and spouses alike. ATS Archives also came and presented a slideshow, where graduates got to spend time looking back on their time at Asbury and sharing stories about life here.
Dr. Steve Martyn praying over the lunch
Later that evening, graduates enjoyed a private dinner in the Global Alumni Center before attending the Seminary’s Baccalaureate Service in Estes Chapel. Wearing their newly presented medallions, the Golden Grads processed into the service and were warmly recognized by the broader Seminary community.
Saturday morning culminated in participation in the 2026 Commencement Ceremony. Once again, members of the Class of 1976 processed in academic regalia, this time as honored guests whose lives of ministry and witness have helped shape the generations of students following in their footsteps.
As alumni shared their stories throughout the weekend, a common thread emerged: God’s faithfulness across decades of service. Whether serving local congregations, global mission fields, hospitals, classrooms, military settings, or nonprofit organizations, the Class of 1976 has continued to exemplify Asbury’s commitment to preparing women and men for Christian leadership and world evangelization.Their collective witness stands as a reminder that God’s calling extends far beyond graduation.
One Golden Grad and his spouse remarked “To put it simply, The Golden Graduate weekend was something we both will always remember. It was a high moment in my life, and that is not an exaggeration.”
It is our privilege to honor the class of 1976 for their perseverance in honoring God and His ministry, and as we reflect on the weekend we are reminded of Hebrews 12:1-2a: “Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.”
Thank you, class of 1976, for running with endurance and the example you have given us all!
