Today, October 7th, concludes the activities for Houghton’s annual Purple and Gold week, though as Homecoming Weekend commences, a new wave of activities flows into campus.
At 7:30 pm tonight, Wesley Chapel will host the Homecoming Collage Concert, in which the Greatbatch School of Music students will perform a number of astounding pieces. When the concert ends, the homecoming dance will begin at the Nielson Center, where students are encouraged to dress comfortably and fashionably, in all kinds of evening wear.
On Saturday, October 8th, there will be several Homecoming sporting events, including Cross Country’s Invitational on the Field of Dreams at 11:00 am, Field Hockey at 12:00 pm, Women’s soccer at 2:30pm, and Men’s Soccer at 5:00pm – all of which will be located on Burke Field. The Equestrian Center will also be hosting an Open House event starting at 9:00 am and running through 5:00 pm.
- Throughout Saturday, Houghton will be hosting Family Weekend, where several Alumni class reunions will be held and activities for families of the campus will be conducted. The “Hands-On Houghton” Festival will be located in the Kerr-Pegula Field House from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, where all members of the community are encouraged to learn more about the opportunities for active participation on campus. Representation of numerous clubs and groups can be found there, as well as games and activities.
To formally conclude Homecoming Weekend, the student body will gather in Wesley Chapel at 9:00 pm for the annual and highly-anticipated SPOT. There, hosts, seniors Colin Campbell and Bekah Fenn will feature a number of goofy and spunky numbers, acts, and bits presented by numerous students. The winners of Purple and Gold week will also be announced.
When asked about the planning process of these events, senior and CAB Director Joey Schunemann stated, “It’s fun, but equally as stressful sometimes. Trying to create an array of events that are diversely enjoyable by people of all walks of Houghton life proves to be a challenge, but having a CAB staff that tries to explore those differences is a great first step to ensuring we represent students in everything we do.”
Schunemann also spoke on the purpose of these activities, expressing hope for the Houghton community. “Houghton University is ultimately our home. Our desire is to inspire students with that belief, even as they wrestle with unpleasant experiences contrasting with beautiful ones.”
Schunemann’s statement encapsulates how many view the tradition of Homecoming Weekend at Houghton as one of togetherness and communal growth. Homecoming Weekend presents an opportunity for students to come together during the ebbs and flows of semester coursework to enjoy and celebrate the Houghton community for what it was, is, and continues to be. ★
