Homecoming 2009 overview

Every student hears of Western Michigan University Homecoming and many participate in the events, but few know the process that goes into planning it each year.

According to Jackie Luedtke, a student co-coordinator for WMU Homecoming, the co-coordinators make most of the decisions concerning what events are held during Homecoming Week.

However, the co-coordinators work alongside a graduate assistant and two administration members.

“Between the five of us, we plan all of Homecoming,” Luedtke said.
Although the date of Homecoming week had already been set, the co-coordinators chose what events are to be held during the week, and what happens which nights.  Some events are being carried over from years previous, such as the Soapbox Derby and Western Games.

The co-coordinators also chose the theme of this year’s Homecoming, “Brown and Gold Never Grow Old.”

Graphic arts professor Paul Sizer designed this year’s logo.
Planning for Homecoming began in May.

The first order of business was to find sponsors for the events.  The committee was able to partner with local businesses such as Qdoba Mexican Grill, Schafer’s Flowers and Sweetwater’s Donut Mill.

The week of Homecoming will kick off with the Qdoba Homecoming Kick-off at Goldsworth Valley Pond, where Qdoba will offer free food and live music.

On Wednesday, the Western Student Association will host a special Western Wednesday. The event will feature the WMU pep band and an appearance by Buster Bronco.

On Thursday, Miller Auditorium will host Yell Like Hell and a Miller Movie.  Yell Like Hell is new to Homecoming this year; it will see RSOs facing off against each other with cheers and songs.

On Friday, Western Games will take place at Goldsworth Valley Pond while the Soapbox Derby will be held on Gilkison Avenue.

On Saturday, the Campus Classic will be held at the Bernhard Center, and Pep Fest and the Family Weekend Tailgate will be held at the College of Health and Human Services.

Before the game, there will be a Flag Run at Waldo Stadium.

As the Broncos face off against the University at Buffalo, halftime will see the crowning of the Homecoming king and queen, as well as the winner of the Spirit Cup. Later that day, Miller Auditorium will host the NPHC Marchdown.

Homecoming weekend will wrap up on Sunday morning with the Grab the Reins Brunch at Bigelow cafeteria.

Although students may participate in and enjoy the events that Homecoming has to offer, many may not know why WMU holds a Homecoming each year.

“It’s kind of one of those things where you’re literally celebrating being a Bronco for a whole week,” Luedtke said, “It’s a whole week full of pride, basically.”
Luedtke added that Homecoming is also a good reason for WMU alumni to return to campus.

Another purpose of Homecoming is to raise money with philanthropic organizations, one of which is chosen each year.

“It’s also building relationships with non-profits in the area,” Luedtke said. “Each year we try to branch out and work with a different [philanthropic] organization.”
“Are students interested in having fun?” Luedtke said. “Get out there and enjoy some events.”

Short URL: http://www.westernherald.com/?p=10368

Posted by HeraldAdmin on Oct 18 2009. Filed under Special Issues. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

Cody Kimball
Web Manager: I'm a Communication Student at WMU, a SCUBA Diver, Boater, Ordained Minister, Notary Public, Web Designer, Film Maker, DJ, and of course a Journalist. Born and raised in Port Huron, MI and a graduate of SC4. http://www.codykimball.com