This year’s Homecoming will take place Oct. 12-16, featuring several events such as the Taking Back Sunday concert and much-loved Foamcoming party.
“Students should expect to have fun, win prizes and have the opportunity to express their Bradley spirit,” Director of Student Activities Michelle Whited said.
Events include the yearly tradition of the Lighting of the B ceremony atop Bradley Hall with free food provided by Famous Dave’s, as well as a BBQ on the quad, a bonfire and a pep rally. Homecoming comes to a close with the Taking Back Sunday concert on Oct. 15.
The Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity will be hosting their annual Foamcoming party. The event is free and on Oct. 13 from 8-11 p.m.
“This dance is in conjunction with Bradley University,” junior interactive media major and media chair of AEPi Zach Dalin said. “A foam guy from Alaska comes down and everyone just has a blast with it.”
This year’s Homecoming will be a little different compared to past years because the weekend activities will be combined with activities being held for Parents’ Weekend.
“This is the first time we have combined these two large events,” Whited said. “We are looking forward to celebrating the Bradley spirit with students, alumni and parents.”
Bradley staff are working together to provide the best experience for all who attend, Assistant Director for Alumni Relations Amber Gruenloh said.
“It’s really a joint effort,” she said. “All committees are joining forces to really create and plan for a great weekend.”
The new Hayden Clark Alumni Center will open Oct. 15 at 11 a.m., giving alumni a dedicated space for interaction and activities, Gruenloh said.
“Some of the exciting events for alumni include an all-Greek alumni reunion and an alumni reception for all former students,” she said.
Students are already excited to see what this year’s Homecoming has to offer. Previous years have proved to be enjoyable because of the school spirit found at the Homecoming soccer game, senior business administrative major Adam Currier said.
“The Friday night game is one of the most highly attended athletics events,” he said. “They give out a lot of free stuff too.”
Sophomore health science major Lindsey Whitfield said she agreed.
“Soccer was definitely the highlight,” she said. “They get the most support from students.”
Freshman Heather Foy said she expects to see some similarities between high school and college Homecomings.
“I like that we’re all together, friends, people you’ve never known before,” she said. “It’s nice to socialize with everyone.”
Gruenloh is coordinating the Homecoming/Parents’ Weekend schedule, and anyone interested in adding to the Homecoming schedule can contact her to propose their event. New events will be added until the week of Homecoming.
