ANDERSON — At least for a few days, it will be gospel legend Sandi Patty’s daughter who will be queen.

Jenn Helvering, daughter of Sandi Patty and John Helvering, appeared shocked when she was named 2009 Homecoming Queen at Anderson University on Thursday in Reardon Auditorium.

“I really was very surprised,” the AU senior said afterward. “I didn’t expect it at all. I got the e-mail, and I thought it was a mistake.”

Helvering said she was sad that she would be gone all weekend. She travels nationally with a Christian music program called The Revolve Tour.

“I’m sure for most of her life, Jenn has been known as ‘Sandi Patty’s daughter,’” said the singer and former Anderson resident by e-mail Thursday.

“But every day, I get to be Jenn Helvering’s mom. I’m especially proud of that today.”

John Helvering, who attended the event, agreed.

“It was extremely exciting to see (the honor go to) someone that did not work for this title,” he said. “But it’s very well deserved.”

Family of another national music figure from Anderson were also on hand. Mike and Tammy McLaughlin accepted the 2009 Distinguished Young Alumni Award for their son, singer-songwriter Jon McLaughlin, during the ceremonies.

The theme of this year’s homecoming is “Stay Connected for Good.”

Also honored were Ray Freer, AU professor emeritus and former art department chairman, with the Distinguished Service Award; Ken and Grada Lockhart, with the John H. Kane Loyalty Award; AU freshman Jyllian Kumfer, with the Alumni Council Scholarship Award; and Christine Densmore Young, director of resident programming at Bethany Pointe, with the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Becky Archibald will receive the Outstanding Music Alumni Award during the Homecoming Concert at 7:30 p.m. tonight in the Park Place Church of God. Admission is free.

Anderson native McLaughlin, who studied music at AU, is working on his third album for Island Def Jam Records.

“We’re honored that all of our children have come through AU,” said Mike McLaughlin. “But Jon’s experience here is one that has certainly impacted his life.”

Archibald, a 1983 AU alum and award-winning jazz and classical pianist, said, “It was quite a surprise when they called me. I was very, very happy and honored.”