Loma Linda Daily Brief

Here’s a quick look at what’s happening around Loma Linda for Saturday, February 7, 2026, from campus events to children’s health support.

Homecoming weekend set for late February

Loma Linda University Health is gearing up for its annual Homecoming, scheduled for Thursday, February 26, through Monday, March 2. Alumni, friends, and community members are invited to return to campus for a long weekend of continuing education, worship services, and family-friendly activities.

Highlights on the schedule include a large Homecoming bash with food and games, class reunions, a special Sabbath service with a parade of flags and haystack lunch, and a “Best of Loma Linda” musical program. A community pancake breakfast and a mission-focused breakfast will give current and former employees, students, and neighbors additional chances to reconnect.

Organizers say registration is now open and encourage early sign-ups for popular sessions and events.

Veteran legal leader named general counsel

The university’s Board of Trustees has appointed attorney Chris Johnston as general counsel and chief legal officer for the health system and its affiliated entities. He steps into the role following the January retirement of longtime counsel Kent Hansen.

Johnston has worked in the Office of General Counsel for about 15 years and previously served in the organization’s risk management department. His background also includes leadership roles with a denominational risk management organization and earlier work in civil litigation.

University leaders highlighted his experience with healthcare, education, and faith-based institutions, noting that he has been a frequent lecturer on legal and governance issues for nonprofit organizations.

Donation strengthens Children’s Hospital Child Life programs

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital this week recognized Spirit of Children, a nonprofit partner that raised more than $217,000 to support Child Life services and the Child Life Fellowship program.

The gift was celebrated during a check presentation and ribbon-cutting on campus. Hospital leaders said the funds will help expand therapeutic play, emotional support, and educational resources for young patients and their families.

In appreciation, the hospital plans to install a permanent plaque outside the eighth-floor playroom, a non-medical space designed to let children relax, play, and feel a sense of normalcy during treatment.

Staying connected

Taken together, these stories reflect a community investing in education, strong governance, and compassionate care for children. Residents can watch for more details on Homecoming events and opportunities to support pediatric patients in the weeks ahead.

Sources

• https://news.llu.edu/community/lluh-homecoming-set-february-26-march-2
• https://news.llu.edu/community/chris-johnston-appointed-lluh-general-counsel
• https://news.llu.edu/community/spirit-children-raises-more-217000-child-life-loma-linda-university-childrens-hospital
• https://www.nadadventist.org/news/spirit-of-children-raises-more-than-217000-to-support-child-life-at-loma-linda-university-childrens-hospital