Homecoming weekend is one of the most action-packed weekends of the fall semester. Campus is buzzing with families and alumni pouring in from all over the country. Yes, waking up early on a Saturday may not be your preference, but for the Homecoming Parade, it’s totally worth it! Whether you couldn’t make it to campus this past weekend and want a homecoming recap or you’re a future Yellow Jacket curious about what homecoming entails, here are some highlights for you:
Spirit Week
From Twin Tuesday to Fan Friday, there were plenty of chances throughout the week to get excited for homecoming. One of the best parts of Cedarville is making memories with the people around you, and last week was a great chance to do just that. The themes even change from year to year: Last year, we had Throwback Thursday, but this year we changed it up with Tie-Dye Thursday.
State of the University Address
The State of the University address is your best opportunity to hear about where the University is headed in the next couple of years. Here, visitors learn more about the plans for new buildings on campus, current fundraising goals, and student body growth. From Friday’s State of the University Address, we learned that the student body is larger than ever, with over 6,000 students total! Some of these students in our academic core programs will have the privilege to have their classes in the upcoming new academic center. God has shown His faithfulness through this process in big ways, especially through a recent anonymous gift of $15 million dollars toward this new building’s cost! It is incredible to see the ways that the Lord has supported the campus community and future students, and we’re excited to see Him do more.
Cardboard Canoe Race
The cardboard canoe race is one of the most popular events of homecoming. Freshman engineering students build cardboard boats and try to paddle across Cedar Lake as fast as possible without sinking (and their grade depends on it!). Homecoming visitors got to watch the race, celebrate the freshmen who made it across, and cheer on those who had to swim the rest of the way. Most of the engineering students made it across the whole lake this year, with only a couple of boats that sank. Shout out to boat #26, who won the race!
Fall Play
Theatre is a staple of Cedarville, and Cedarville’s theatre department gives each production their all. Even if you aren’t “into” theatre, it’s definitely worth seeing at least one production. From the fun and games of productions like Charlie Brown last year, to the drama of the spring production Radium Girls, you’re always in for an entertaining night. This Homecoming, visitors attended The Secret Garden and were transported into a story of nature, friendship, and healing.
Jazz Band Concert
Homecoming involves plenty of musical performances to enjoy, and one of the best is the jazz band concert! The environment is relaxed, the mood is good, and the music is upbeat each year. The jazz band had the opportunity to play in the new Scharnberg Business and Communication Center this homecoming and delighted visitors with their music!
Homecoming Parade
Attending the Homecoming parade might mean waking up early, but it’s a Cedarville classic and the highlight of homecoming. This is a unique opportunity for the University and the Village of Cedarville to come together each year. I’ve always walked with the org that I’m part of: Ayo Dance Company. Many of the dorms, orgs, and majors will pass out candy during the parade while visitors and community members cheer each float on and enjoy the festivities!
Academic Expos
This year, instead of reunions, a lot of the departments on campus put on Academic Expo events and shared what their students and faculty members have been up to recently. These events gave alumni visitors the chance to connect with their old departments and see for themselves how the student experience in their departments has changed.
Sidewalk Saturdays
Homecoming visitors got to experience the Village of Cedarville for themselves at the Village’s Sidewalk Saturday event this year! Visitors checked out local businesses, enjoyed live entertainment, and even got to see a car show all on Cedarville’s Main Street at this block-party style event.
Worship Night
Who doesn’t love a good worship night? The campus community and visitors got to experience spiritual refreshment at the homecoming worship finale on Saturday night. For students, alumni, and faculty/staff alike, taking a step back and focusing your eyes on the Lord is a great way to handle the stress you might be feeling before midterms. Academic excellence begins with a heart oriented to glorify the Lord.
Name: Etheny McCall
Major and Year of Graduation: AYALA with a TESOL specialty; class of 2025
Favorite Study Spot: I like changing up my study spot from time to time. I can usually be found in the library or the Center for Biblical & Theological Studies lab.
Favorite Music Artists: It’s so hard to choose! I’ve listened to Gracie Abrams and Taylor Swift for as long as I can remember. I also enjoy Lana Del Rey; I love her unique style.
Favorite Quote: “It is enough for me, anyway.” I have no idea where this came from, I found it on Pinterest and just thought it was sort of cute 🙂
What do You Like to do in Your Free Time? I love to dance! It is one of my favorite things in the whole world; I’ve been dancing ever since I was really little. I also enjoy reading, writing, watching shows, and hanging out with friends.
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 27:4
Tags: #cedarville, #college, #experiences, #homecoming, #memories, #studentlife
Posted in: College Life, CU Parents, Homecoming