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Homecoming 2009 To Celebrate History, Tradition

Sept. 24, 2009
SHSU Media Contact: Meredith Mohr

2009 Homecoming logo Homecoming 2009 will be a “Samtastic” time for everyone on campus for the celebratory birthday bash commemorating 50 years of Sammy when the festivities kick off Oct. 5.

Festivities will begin with the “Homecoming Kick Off Rally” at noon on Monday (Oct. 5), in the Lowman Student Center Mall Area.

SHSU cheerleaders, the Orange Pride dance team and Sammy the Bearkat will be present to help spread the “Orange spirit,” along with the introduction of the 2009 Homecoming King and Queen nominees.

Later, students, faculty and alumni can attend the Comedy Relief show, to be held in the LSC Ballroom at 7 p.m., featuring a surprise guest comedian.

Tuesday’s (Oct. 6) activities include “Make Your Own Ceramics,” hosted by Student Activities at 11 a.m. in the LSC Mall Area. Students can finish off the day by attending Sam Houston’s Best Dance Crew at 7 p.m. in the LSC Ballroom.

On Wednesday (Oct. 7), Student Activities will host the annual “SamJam Carnival” at 7 p.m. in the Holleman Field Parking Lot. Numerous rides and attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel and free food, will be on hand for all to enjoy. The highlight of the night will be the announcement of the finalist for the Homecoming King and Queen.

On Thursday (Oct. 8), Sam Houston Avenue will be transformed with lights and decorations as countless floats designed by student and community organizations begin their route down the street. The 2009 Homecoming Parade will showcase university departments and administrators, distinguished alumni and other government officials, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Friday (Oct. 9) will be a day to see the entire campus wearing orange in support of Bearkat Spirit Friday, and the Department of Student Activities will give away free food and prizes to those in school colors at 10 a.m. in the LSC Mall Area.

Other various activities include the “Golden Circle Reunion” in the LSC Ballroom at 11 a.m. and the “50 Years of Sammy” Reception in the LSC Atrium at 1 p.m.

That evening, the “Distinguished Alumni Gala” will be held in the LSC Ballroom, with a reception at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m., hosted by the office of Alumni Relations.

Five Sam Houston State University graduates who have made notable contributions in business and education, as well as to the university, will be honored at the gala, including Ronny Carroll, Tommy Frank, Col. (Ret.) Jerry Marshall, Ed Reyna, and the Distinguished Young Alumnus for this year, Edd Compton IV.

On Saturday, the President’s Office will host “Alumni Coffee and Pre-Game with the President” at 10:30 a.m. in Austin Hall.

That afternoon, Bearkat fans are encouraged to show their school spirit at the tailgate party at Bearkat Alley, at the north end of Bowers Stadium, beginning at noon. Free food and giveaways will be available on behalf of Alumni Relations and countless student organizations.

The tailgate party will be followed by the SHSU football game with the Bearkats taking on Nicholls State at 2 p.m.

The Regional and Special Interest Alumni Clubs Reception will be held following the game at 5:30 p.m in the LSC Ballroom.

With the long planning, hard work and support of faculty, alumni and on-campus organizations, Homecoming 2009 will truly be a ‘Samtastic” celebration of Sammy, Huntsville, and the rich diversity and history present at Sam Houston State University, according to Brandon Cooper, Student Activities manager.

For more information on Homecoming 2009, "Samtastic! Birthday Bash: 50 Years of Sammy," visit the Homecoming Web site at http://www.shsu.edu/homecoming.

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