This year’s Homecoming weekend at Utica University was a special time for us, the Upsilons, as we celebrated tradition and community spirit in our bold, unmistakable red hats emblazoned with the slogan “Make Utica Great Again.” While our hats initially sparked some controversy due to their resemblance to a well-known political slogan, we quickly clarified our message: unity, inclusivity and awareness.

As alumni of Utica University, we wanted our presence to make a statement, reminding everyone of the multicultural Greek organizations that once thrived on campus and the impactful events and community services we used to host. We believe Utica is missing our presence, and that is the message we shared with others.Our goal with these hats is to remind everyone of the memories and spirit we once created.

The red color of our hats is significant to us; it represents our long-standing commitment to philanthropy, specifically our work focusing on HIV/AIDS awareness. Although there were some initial misunderstandings about our intentions, we have clearly clarified that our message was not political but rather a call to reconnect and celebrate the history and legacy of multicultural Greeks at Utica.

A community member named Mayra shared her initial reaction: “At first, I thought they were campaigning for Trump. But once they explained the meaning behind the slogan, I realized they were expressing something deeper—bringing people together.” It felt good to hear that people were understanding the true message behind our initiative.

The October Homecoming was especially meaningful for us, the alumni of the Upsilons, as it brought together friends who hadn’t seen each other since our college days. “This year’s Homecoming was special,” we overheard one alum say. “It was incredible to witness the growth and achievements of everyone since graduation.”

We used this opportunity not just to celebrate our shared history but also to promote a message of unity and collaboration. By engaging with alumni from diverse backgrounds, we created a sense of community that extended beyond campus and into the wider world. Our presence served as a reminder of the positive impact multicultural Greek organizations can have on campus life and beyond.

Looking ahead, we feel that our initiative stands as a testament to the enduring power of alumni engagement and the importance of remembering and honoring shared legacies. What began as a point of controversy for our red hats has become a symbol of our commitment to making Utica great through unity, inclusivity and collective action.

In the spirit of our philanthropic work, we, the Upsilons, have set a precedent for future generations to celebrate their heritage while striving for positive change in their communities. As Utica University continues to evolve, we hope our legacy will serve as a guiding light for fostering a campus environment that values diversity, leadership, and service to others.

For more information about the fraternity, you can reach the Upsilons through their Instagram page @uticaupsilons and on their website at www.lsu79.org.