Ohio Wesleyan’s Annual Homecoming and Family weekend is approaching fast. The festivities will take place from October 4-6 including a variety of events to bring students' families together.
The Office of University Advancement has been working tirelessly to plan the perfect Homecoming and Family Weekend. Katie Webster, the director of alumni and family engagement, spoke about Photo By James D. DeCamp (OWU Flickr)
the purpose of Homecoming and Family Weekend.
“Homecoming and Family Weekend is about bringing the entire OWU community- students, alumni, families, faculty and staff, and our downtown Delaware community together,” said Webster.
Ohio Wesleyan prides itself on its ability to create connections that can help a student not only through their 4 years here but long past graduation. This weekend allows students to invite their friends and family onto campus and get a glimpse into their lives. The weekend also serves as an invitation back to campus for the alumni, providing a chance to bridge the gap between students and alumni.
This year the events for students begin early, on Thursday night. Webster encourages students to attend an event that will mark a change in Ohio Wesleyan’s history.
“Students can join us on Thursday, October 3 at 5 p.m. for the new "social hub groundbreaking" at 4 Williams Drive. This will be an exciting time to be part of history as this new concept begins to become a reality. And, this is also where the Office of Alumni & Family Engagement will be distributing 2024 Homecoming shirts to wear during the weekend,” said Webster.
For new students on campus, or returning students who haven’t taken the opportunity to enjoy homecoming weekend, every day brings something new. Webster talked about the goals for this year and the changes for Friday night, including what students can look forward to for the “choose your own adventure” portion.
“One of our goals this year is to embrace the campus and downtown Delaware community by featuring an opportunity for alumni and families to choose their own adventure on Friday evening. Folks can see a show at Chappelear, head to Perkins Observatory, meet faculty at Pints with Profs, watch a sporting event, head to downtown for First Friday, and more,” said Webster.
Webster also talked about the Saturday traditions that are being continued from years past. Again students can expect a full day of Bishop events.
“Saturday is full of Homecoming traditions- the annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Family doughnuts and Coffee with the Bishop, the parade of Bishops, and of course the Battling Bishop tailgate is the signature event of Homecoming. Saturday evening we look forward to celebrating our fraternity and sorority reunions and awards.” Webster closed with “Truly the weekend has something for everyone.”
Webster encourages students to get excited about the variety of events and being a part of this community in general. When asked what students should be most looking forward to, it was difficult for her to pick just one thing.
“Bishop pride, spirit, tradition, and community fill the campus and our hope is for students to fully embrace and experience the weekend festivities. Engage with alumni, take part in events, be fully present, and appreciate being part of this special place,” said Webster.
Webster stresses the importance of taking advantage of any and all opportunities that this weekend has to offer and beyond that, what Ohio Wesleyan has to offer.
“Students should take the opportunity to make the most of their time at OWU and experience traditions like Homecoming & Family Weekend. The college years go fast and when they look back at their time at OWU, it will be the moments and shared experiences with people they will remember and cherish the most,” said Webster.
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