After a year of virtual homecoming events, Saint Augustine’s University finally transitioned back to a traditional homecoming in 2021. Last year, all events were held online and some students felt that they were not exactly getting their Homecoming experience.
The university is still undergoing COVID-19 precautions and a mask mandate was in place for all events. But having events in-person was enough for most students.
“I am excited to finally have fun with my friends and get a chance to finally experience college,” said Bryan Monroe, a sophomore communications major.
The Blue & White experience began Sunday, Sept. 19, with the Homecoming Gospel Explosion Brunch where students, faculty and alumni gathered to listen and enjoy gospel music.
The event was held outside the cafeteria from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday was also the Homecoming kickoff in the George Williams Athletic Complex.
On Monday, Sept. 20, in the Seby B. Jones Auditorium, Darren Brand and Emmanuel Hudson kicked off the Falcon N’ Out comedy show. Students got to laugh, and enjoy each other’s company, while listening to some comedic skits.
Following the comedy show, the Aux Cord Wars, a competition among students, was held in the Seby B. Jones Auditorium.
The 1867 Break is a SAU tradition and this year it was held in the Quad on Wednesday from noon to 2 p.m. This event allowed students to mingle, play games and get to know each other.
Following the 1867 Break, students gathered in the Julia Chester Emery Gymnasium at 7 p.m. for the Mister & Miss SAU Coronation. After 1 ½ years of mostly online classes, students were thrilled to be able to meet their classmates and enjoy these events together.
The BWE homecoming concert on Thursday featured Rapper Lil Boosie and KCAMP as the main acts.
Homecoming activities came to a climax on Friday with the Falcon Fest and the BWE Homecoming step show. Both were held in the Julia Chester Emery Gymnasium.
After a year of virtual homecoming and events, students and alumni had an opportunity to enjoy all that the BWE had put together.
Tia Jones, a senior communications major, thought the event was a success. “Last year when COVID-19 caused classes to go remote, many students opted to have that option and very few students were left on campus,” Jones said. “However, in 2021 we have adapted to COVID-19 and its restrictions and have moved on to our normal lives again.”
–– Jessica Saintil
