On October 16-17, Northwestern State University will host its 2015 Homecoming celebration with events for students, alumni and the community.

This year’s theme, selected by the Student Activities Board, is “The Homecoming Games,” a take on the popular “Hunger Games” book and movie series.  Reunions, receptions and other events are planned, including the popular Homecoming parade, pep rally, Rockin’ on the Riverbank Festival, tailgating, football and the presentation of the Homecoming Honor Court.

“This year’s Homecoming celebration will include everyone’s favorite traditions such as the parade, pep rally and Rockin’ on the Riverbank, which draws students, alumni and the Natchitoches community together for a great kick-off to the weekend,” said Vanner Erikson, associate director of Alumni Affairs. “We are also excited about some new features as well, such as the first-ever Homecoming Breakfast at Collins Pavilion.  It will be a super start what promises to be a great day of get-togethers and tailgating.”

Festivities will begin Friday, Oct. 16 with the annual Homecoming Golf Tournament at the NSU Rec Complex.  Four-man teams are invited to participate in the scramble, which will include lunch, contests and more.
The annual Homecoming parade will begin at 5:30 p.m., with floats created by NSU students proceeding from campus to the Fleur de Lis Stage on the downtown riverbank where the pep rally will take place. The pep rally will include performances by spirit groups and the Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band, recognition of the football team and Honor Court and announcements of the winners of the week’s student competitions.

Following the pep rally, NSU will present 80s tribute rock and roll band L.A. ROXX to entertain during the Rockin’ on the Riverbank until 10 p.m. where alumni and friends are encouraged to gather with friends and enjoy the music and festivities.

Saturday’s activities will include several reunions and receptions for departments and Greek organizations.  Dates and times for organizational reunions may change.  Alumni and friends are encouraged to verify activity details beforehand.

Events will begin with the alumni breakfast at Collins Pavilion at 8 a.m. that will include coffee, bloody marys and mimosas.  There is no charge to attend, but RSVPs are required. The Gallaspy College of Education and Human Development will hold a reunion at the Teacher Education Center for graduates from 1995 and 2005 beginning at 9:30, followed by an induction ceremony for the newest members of the Hall of Distinguished Educators at 10 a.m.

The N Club Hall of Fame induction ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. in Magale Recital and a reception for the School of Business’s Outstanding Business Awards will begin at 11 a.m. in Russell Hall.  The Demon Regiment will host an open house beginning at 12:30 p.m. at the James A. Noe Military Science Building.

Tailgating activities for alumni and friends at Collins Pavilion and Demon Alley will begin at 3 p.m.  A meal is available for $5 and is free to members of the Alumni Association.  Non-members can join the Alumni Association at northwesternalumni.com and can prepay to attend the tailgate or pay at the event. The Hospitality Management and Tourism program will hold a Turning 21 Tailgate beginning at 3 p.m.

Pregame activities will begin at 5:30 p.m. in Turpin Stadium.  Kickoff to the Demon’s football game versus Lamar University is at 6 p.m. with halftime ceremonies and the Honor Court presentation at approximately 7:30 p.m.  Tickets to the game can be purchased in advanced by calling the NSU Athletic Ticket Office at (318) 357-4268.
Information, a schedule of events and registration links for all events listed are available at northwesternalumni.com/homecoming2015 or by contacting Erikson at eriksonv@nsula.edu or calling (318) 357-4415.