Catch the Fever!
The 2009 Homecoming Weekend, “Retriever Fever,” is sure to start with a fire – literally.
On Thursday, October 15, the lawn of Erickson field will be filled with students talking and laughing, reconnecting and waiting to see a flame take fire. The annual Bonfire and Outdoor Movie began five years ago after Thomas Locastro ’09, a student on the First Year Council, sparked the initial idea as a way for students to gather with one another and connect. After he completed the necessary paperwork, a new tradition was born.
And this year, along with favorite traditions of the past – other new traditions will be born.
“We’re a young place, and Homecoming is still a young event,” said Greg Simmons (MPP, ’04), vice president of institutional advancement. “This year we’re building a foundation and a platform so that, through co-programming and collaboration, traditions will give alumni a way to stay connected with UMBC.”
Before the bonfire will be an event that was previously held off-campus in Annapolis: the Alumnus/Alumna of the Year awards. Seven alumni will be recognized at the Albin O. Kuhn Library, 7th Floor, for their professional and personal achievements along with their service to the University. This year’s winners have backgrounds in a number of fields including engineering, the arts and humanities, natural and mathematical sciences and social sciences.
And as the sun sets in the background of the awards ceremony, a glow will reflect from Erickson Field as the Bonfire begins. Many of the events at this year’s Homecoming will be close in time and physical location, creating a vibrant hub of activity – another new tradition for UMBC’s Homecoming.
“This year we thought hard about what was missing from previous years and tried to fill in the gaps,” said Stanyell Bruce, associate director of alumni relations and co-chair of the Homecoming Committee. “Although many past Homecoming traditions remained in the 2009 lineup, a variety of new events have been added to the calendar to ensure there were activities for everyone in the UMBC community.”
From 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, there will be a string of consecutive events for all members of the UMBC community. Committee members said that most events purposely overlap and are close in location so that individuals can participate in most events. Saturday begins with a 5K race fit for runners of any age or speed followed by the men’s soccer game at 1 p.m.
“I’m encouraging everyone to come out and cheer on the men’s soccer team as they embark on a record breaking year in soccer,” said Kevin Gibbons O’Neill ’86, assistant athletic director for fundraising and Homecoming co-chair.
Around the same time as the game, The Commons will turn into “Retriever Fever Fest” – with family friendly activities perfect for faculty, staff and alumni. Other highlights include the Honors College Reception and the Chapter of Young Alumni happy hour. The weekend will end with a performance by comedian Demetri Martin.
For a list of Homecoming highlights, click here.
For a complete listing of events, click here.
(10/9/09)
