Winthrop homecoming and reunion will return in person this year during the week of Nov. 8-13. Students, alumni and friends are invited to attend the various events that will be held during the week.
“I love homecoming because it brings current students and alumni together as a community. It’s a great time for students to network and be inspired by previous graduates,” Jordan Terry, a first-year student in the master’s in English program said.
As a result of Covid-19, the Alumni Association has made the decision to cancel the tailgate portion of homecoming. due to the covid-19 guidelines they are continuing to encourage people to follow these precautions.
“Students will adhere to all current Covid-19 guidelines in place on campus to ensure safety for everyone” Lori Tuttle, the executive director of alumni relations and reunion giving here at Winthrop University said.
“While alumni are on campus, they will be required to wear a face covering when indoors on campus, regardless of vaccination status.” Tuttle said.
While tailgating is cancelled, the Alumni Association still wants alumni and students to enjoy the day and hopes they explore other options such as supporting local establishments or venues or gathering at their own homes.
“The historical number of attendees for tailgating over the past few years would present significant safety and social distancing challenges that the university cannot overcome in 2021,” Tuttle said.
“Safety concerns during the current pandemic include: social distancing enforcement, masking enforcement, sanitation issues related to port-a-johns and lack of available hand washing options,” Tuttle said.
Despite the backlash on the decision to cancel the tailgate for the 2021 homecoming, the Alumni Association has received positive feedback from alumni who are planning to participate in the online events and come to Winthrop to watch the men’s basketball game.
“I think that it’s great that Winthrop still decided to have a homecoming this year! A lot of people look forward to it and I think it is smart to have virtual events so that people can still participate while being safe,” senior conservation major Jesse Martin said.
Tuttle explained that the Alumni Association has been hard at work to plan the various events for the several days of homecoming.
“The Office of Student Activities and DSU plan events for the students while the Alumni Association plans events for alumni,” Tuttle said. “The Homecoming Steering Committee provides oversight to Homecoming and Reunion to ensure the week and weekend events are fun and safe for all to enjoy.”
During homecoming week and reunion, students are invited to participate in the various events planned. A few events planned so far include a Homecoming Kickoff Meal, Homecoming Pep Rally on the Campus Green and the Masked Singer performance in Tillman Auditorium. Details of these events can be found on the Winthrop webpage.
The men’s basketball game against Mercer University will be held on November 13, 2021. Those attending are expected to follow all guidelines and rules while in the Coliseum.
Those who are planning to participate in this year‘s homecoming should continue to monitor Winthrop University’s website for updated information.
