From athletic matchups to alumni meetups, student performances to a live show by The Voice‘s Ryan Quinn, this year’s Homecoming and Family Weekend at Utica University is packed with activities.
Running from Friday, Sept. 26 to Sunday, Sept. 28, the weekend’s list of events offers something for everyone — from current students, returning alumni or visiting family members.
“There’s a different kind of energy on campus during Homecoming — it reminds you why being part of this community matters,” said Autumn Richey, a sophomore at Utica University. “You run into friends, professors, even alumni you haven’t seen in a while — it’s fun, and it just makes campus feel alive in a different way.”
The weekend kicks off Friday afternoon with a Welcome Station in Strebel Lounge, followed by the Women’s Tennis match vs. Hartwick College at 4 p.m. At 5 p.m., students can join in events like Trax’s Bingo Bash, the Borders + Edges art reception, and the Alumni Career Panel hosted by the Office of Educator Preparation.
That night, the Utica University Performance Showcase will bring student singers, dancers and cheerleaders, perform at the Strebel Auditorium at 7 p.m., and at 8 p.m., recording artist and Utica alum Ryan Quinn — known for his appearance on The Voice — will headline the Orange & Blue Brews Pub Night at Pioneer Pub. Guests can enjoy refreshments and drinks from the North East Tap Co.’s vintage tap truck.
“I’m definitely planning to catch Ryan Quinn’s performance,” Richey said. “I think it’s so cool that someone from Utica who was on The Voice is coming back to perform. That’s not something you get every weekend.”
Saturday will start early with events for alumni groups and campus tours, while the annual 12th Man Tailgate kicks off at 9 a.m. The biggest event of the weekend, the Homecoming Football Game against Alfred State, starts at 1 p.m. at Charles A. Gaetano Stadium. Students, families, and alumni are encouraged to show their Pioneer pride in blue and orange. After the game, the post-game celebration will take place outside Thurston Hall.
Other events on Saturday include the Artisan Alley & Farmers Market, alumni sports games, and a Golden Pioneer Luncheon hosted by President Todd Pfannestiel. Sunday wraps up the weekend with a Farewell Brunch in the Strebel Dining Commons.
Many of these events require registering. Online registration is closed, but walk up registration is available at all events. Visit https://www.utica.edu/homecoming-weekend for the complete list of Homecoming events and information.
