HOMECOMING WRAP-UP
This year’s Homecoming was filled with excitement as thousands of alumni and friends descended on the Capstone. Although I have been affiliated with this great institution for 25 years, I must say that I was heartened and energized by the show of support and love given to me by our alumni throughout the Homecoming weekend. Their generosity and dedication to Howard propels our University towards greatness. Our recent Homecoming celebration also provided opportunities for alumni engagement that were well attended. As alumni return home, it is clear to us that our celebration must be holistic. We enjoy the friendship, the memories, the game and many activities. We plan to expand that experience and to provide opportunities for reunion and continued personal enrichment from the Capstone. These may occur in the form of workshops on financial planning, health and wellness, philanthropy and other issues that are pertinent to alumni as well as updates about alma mater. Student Activities The tradition continued with the first-ever Homecoming pep rally at Greene Stadium; an exciting Entertainment Power Summit; glamorous fashion shows; an energetic step show; and amazing performances by Erykah Badu, Brandy, Trey Songz, Eric Benet, Mary Mary, and Migos; hilarious comedy acts from Marlon Wayans and Lil’ Duval; and a funfilled parade. Alumni Activities I had the privilege of attending several wonderful alumni events, including the Bison Express kickoff and reception. This event featured keynote speaker and Howard alum Rock Newman, who shared dozens of stories about the legacy of Howard University. It was truly great to see so many former student athletes rekindle their love for alma mater.
Yardfest Yardfest attendance was more than 15,000 this year. Our attempt to cap the attendance was mandated by District of Columbia officials, including the Fire Marshal, as we secured the necessary permits for the event to ensure a safe capacity. Unfortunately, these efforts were not successful. I have convened a task force to examine Homecoming, generally, and Yardfest in particular, going forward. We will continue to refine and restructure it to ensure greater success in subsequent years. Parade One of my favorite events of the weekend was the Homecoming Parade, which featured Academy Award nominee Taraji P. Henson (B.A. ‘95) and actor Lance Gross (B.F.A. ‘04) serving as Grand Marshals and Marlon Wayans serving as Grand Ambassador. Hundreds of Bison and supporters lined the streets of Georgia Avenue and throughout the historic LeDroit Park to show their love and support of Howard University. The Game Always thrilling is the Homecoming Football game. This year, our Bison defeated the Morgan State University Bears 28-14 in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference matchup! Again, congratulations to our football team, coaches, and Intercollegiate Athletics staff. Thank you for making Howard’s 89th Homecoming memorable. See you next year! -Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick