Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) is set to host another exciting Homecoming weekend on Oct. 25-26. 2024’s celebration promises to be a vibrant mix of tradition, school spirit and community pride. All students, alumni and friends of the Colonel community are invited to come together for festivities including the annual parade, tailgating and the much-anticipated Colonel football game.
“Homecoming is a time to celebrate the rich traditions and strong community that define Eastern Kentucky University,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “It’s a special opportunity for the past and present campus community to come together as One Eastern, share pride in EKU and reflect on the lasting impact this university has on all of us. It reminds us of the power of connection and the enduring spirit of the Colonel family.”
Homecoming festivities will kickoff on Monday, Oct. 21, with a livestream interview with President McFaddin. The annual Homecoming Parade will take place at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, with its traditional route on Lancaster Avenue and Main Street. Following the parade, EKU’s HOCO Block Party starts at 7 p.m. on Water Street with live music, food and drinks from several vendors.
On Saturday morning, Oct. 26, the parking lot in Alumni Coliseum opens at 9 a.m. for tailgating ahead of the Homecoming football game. A celebration for EKU President Emeritus Michael T. Benson will be held at noon with a special portrait unveiling in Keen Johnson Walnut Hall, honoring his impactful legacy and leadership. The Homecoming game kicks off at 3 p.m. with the Colonels facing Utah Tech. The Homecoming Royal Court will be crowned during half-time.
The 2024 EKU alumni award recipients will be recognized at the J.W. Spider Thurman Alumni Awards and Pioneer Brunch, which is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 26, at 10 a.m. Colonels being inducted into the Hall of Distinguished Alumni include Ricky Gordon, ’92 ’20; Karen Harbin, ’82; Thomas Lockridge, ’81; and Dr. John “Lucky” Meisenheimer, ’79.
Recipients of the 2024 Professional Achievement Award are Theophilus (Theo) D. Bellamy, ’98; Dr. Ryan Burns, ’06; and Jeff Crowe, ’93.
Alumni receiving the 2024 Distinguished Service Award are Betsy Williams Clemons, ’80; Margaret Dunbar-Demaree, ’81; Rebecca Fifer, ’08; David Bruce Fraley, ’85; DuWayne Grant, ’83; Dan Kirstein, ’13 ’15; and India Kirstein, ’15.
Kiah Arnold, ’12; Dr. Nicole Wozniak, ’14 ’18; and Elizabeth León Zaragoza, ’17, will be honored with the 2024 Young Alumni Award.
Additional signature Homecoming events include:
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Light Up Your ResLife - 8 p.m., Oct. 23 - Powell Plaza
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Colonel Corn Roast - 5-7 p.m., Oct. 24 - Powell Plaza
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Homecoming Campus Tours - 1-5 p.m., Oct. 25 - Alumni Center at Keen Johnson
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Young Alumni After Party - 9 p.m., Oct. 25 - Paddy Wagon in Richmond
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Homecoming 5K - 8 a.m., Oct. 26 - EKU Campus Recreation Center
Homecoming weekend has additional events planned for the campus community ranging from various organizational, departmental and college reunions and events. See a complete schedule of all Homecoming events, including maps, tickets and registration details.