Homecoming is one of my favorite times on campus. Alumni return and students cheer at pep rallies and competitions, build parade floats and participate in a variety of activities to create their own memories of Missouri State.

I encourage all members of the campus community to support our alumni and students by participating in Homecoming activities this week. Highlights include:

• Rockstar, a student talent competition, is tonight at 7 p.m. in Hammons Student Center
• Yell Like Hell Pep Rally is at 6 p.m. on Thursday in Hammons Student Center
• Alumni events start with the Welcome Home Kickoff Party at 5 p.m. on Friday in the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center

Saturday begins with the Homecoming Parade at 9 a.m. on John Q. Hammons Parkway, followed by Breakfast with Boomer at 10 a.m. in Meyer Library. Men’s and women’s basketball scrimmages will also begin at 10 a.m. in JQH Arena.

Pregame festivities in Bearfest Village will start shortly after the parade. Kickoff for the Bears football game against Western Illinois State University is at 2 p.m. I hope you will attend the game and cheer on the Bears to victory.

The full list of alumni and student Homecoming activities can be found online.

Thanks for all you do for Missouri State!