It is that time of year — the time we put aside our books and break out every piece of red we own. Technician stated it best in an editorial in 2008, “Traditions. We have few of them on our campus that were not imposed by or self-proclaimed by the University, and the granddaddy of all traditions is Homecoming Week.”
Homecoming is an award-winning program, which is so big that it has been mentioned in the “U.S. News and World Report” as one of the most popular events on campus. Each year, the energy and excitement surrounding the weeklong festivities grows exponentially. And Homecoming 2009 will be the best yet.
However, Homecoming is built around several important elements. It is built around welcoming our alumni home, supporting the Wolfpack and giving back. I encourage all of you to get involved and take part in what is one of the greatest weeks of the fall semester.
Every day you wear red, you will get fed in the Brickyard starting at 11 a.m. For those of you on Centennial Campus Monday, you can get fed at Textiles, and Tuesday at Engineering Building I.
You can also take time to give back in one of our many avenues to do service. Buy cookies in the Brickyard on Thursday; give blood at one of our three blood drives; bring cans to the Brickyard or be a part of the Service Night 2009.
Join us Wednesday night in Homecoming’s newest element; in the Talley Ballroom, we will be honoring Doc Hendley, a 2005 alumnus. Hendley runs a Boone, N.C. nonprofit, “Wine to Water,” and raises money for his work. Hendley has brought clean, sustainable water to regions all over the world. Join us as we hear about his amazing work — Hendley was also recognized as one of CNN’s Top Ten Heroes. Come and find out how you can help him in this effort.
And on Thursday night, we will party the night away with the annual UAB All Night Bash!
The busiest day of the year, however, will be Friday, as the community and Wolfpackers from many generations gather together for the Hillsborough Street Parade. Join alumni, Coach Tom O’Brien and many notable guests at this event. Enjoy the sites of all the student floats and the many other entries. Immediately following the parade, come out to the Pack Howl Pep Rally and Concert featuring the College Humor Tour and the band, Roman Candle, a free event for all N.C. State students.
Homecoming is not only a busy week but also one of the best weeks of the fall semester. There are very few times a year the campus comes together as a Wolfpack family. By coming out, you are taking part in the “granddaddy of all traditions.” Each year, Homecoming grows and becomes a stronger force on this campus. However, without the support of past students, it would not be the celebration it is today. So, come out, get involved, get behind our team and Terminate the Terps! Go Wolfpack!
