WKU News

The WKU Alumni Association, in partnership with the Department of Student Activities and WKU Athletics, will celebrate the tradition of Homecoming with a 1920s-inspired “Roaring Red” theme throughout the week concluding on Nov. 16, 2024.

“Homecoming is a celebration of our Hilltopper Spirit, and this year, we’re turning back the clock to the roaring 1920s,” said Zach Marcum, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement & Philanthropy. “The ‘Roaring Red’ theme was chosen by our community and captures the excitement, energy and flair that defined the era. It’s going to be a weekend where everyone can step into the past and relive the memories they made here on the Hill.”

Selected from 80 unique submissions, Marcum said the “Roaring Red” theme reflects the passion of the WKU community.

“We saw incredible engagement from our Hilltopper Family,” he said. “A group of current students, representing a wide array of student organizations, narrowed down the submissions to the top two themes. The final decision was made through an Instagram poll, where ‘Roaring Red’ won with more than 60% of the vote. It’s clear that this theme resonated with everyone, and we can’t wait to bring it to life.”

The Homecoming festivities kick off with the second-annual Hilltopper Excellence Awards on Thursday, Nov. 14, which will include induction of the 33rd Class of WKU Hall of Distinguished Alumni, as well as the presentation of other top alumni achievement and distinguished service awards.

On Friday, Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky will host the annual Chili, Cheese and Community luncheon, with the Homecoming Parade dominating the evening’s celebrations.

Before the parade, community members are invited to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere at Fountain Square Park and the Fountain Square Entertainment District.

“The DJ will keep the energy high, and the downtown scene will be buzzing with life,” Marcum said. “At 5:30 p.m., turn your attention up to College Street and watch the parade roll through, showcasing the timeless spirit of WKU.”

The WKU Homecoming parade will start at the iconic steps of Cherry Hall. From there, the parade will proceed straight down College Street, filling the city with the sights and sounds of Hilltopper pride, all the way to Fountain Square Park.

Following the parade, everyone is invited to gather at the stage in Fountain Square Park for Big Red’s Roar Pep Rally. The program will feature WKU President Timothy C. Caboni, the WKU Football team, the Big Red Marching Band, WKU Cheer, WKU Dance-Topperettes and Big Red for an unforgettable evening of Hilltopper Spirit.

Homecoming Day on Nov. 16 will feature numerous reunions of organizations, Greek groups, athletic teams, academic programs and more. With the football game currently scheduled for kickoff at 11 a.m., Tailgate & Celebrate will begin at 8:30 a.m.

“Homecoming is all about the timeless memories made on the Hill,” Marcum said. “No matter your grad year, we think that the energy of the 1920s brings that spirit to life—an era of bold style, music and celebration. We’re excited to see our Hilltopper Family embrace this theme and make it one of the most memorable Homecomings yet. The entire weekend is set to be a roaring good time, filled with fun, nostalgia and WKU pride.”

For information, contact Zach Marcum at zachary.marcum@wku.edu or 270-745-2688.

-WKU-

Western Kentucky University prides itself on positioning its students, faculty and staff for long term success. As a student-centered, applied research university, WKU helps students expand on classroom learning by integrating education with real-world applications in the communities we serve. Our hilltop campus is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, which was recently named by Reader’s Digest as one of the nicest towns in America, just an hour’s drive from Nashville, Tennessee.