While homecoming celebrations are traditionally associated with students and alumni, Buffalo State University’s Homecoming Week is also a time for faculty and staff to celebrate being Bengals! This year’s theme, “Together We Grow,” emphasizes Homecoming as a unified event in which all are encouraged to participate.
Many academic departments across campus will offer events throughout the week: the Anne Frank Project will host alumnus Lazarus Lynch, ’16, as the Donn Youngstrom featured speaker; the Music Department will present the annual Music Alumni Concert; and more. Even if your department is not hosting an event, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this exciting time at Buffalo State.
Homecoming Week kicks off Monday, September 23, and concludes Saturday, September 28, with the Big Game! Here are some other ways to get involved:
Decorate Your Door—and Maybe Win a Pizza Party
Offices and departments are invited to register for the Homecoming Door Decoration Contest with decorations around this year’s theme: “Together We Grow.” Judging criteria include use of theme, craftsmanship, attention to detail, and creativity.
Decorations should be completed by the end of the day Monday, September 23, and displayed through Friday, September 27. Doors will be judged on Wednesday, September 25, between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. The first prize office or department will win a pizza party!
To participate, please register online before Friday, September 20, at 5:00 p.m.
Wish Buffalo State a Happy Birthday and Say Hi to Benji
Stop by the Campbell Student Union Plaza on Tuesday, September 24, between 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. to enjoy a cupcake in celebration of Buffalo State’s 153rd year educating students in the city of Buffalo. Plus, check out the new and improved Benji mascot!
Sip and Socialize at Homecoming Happy Hour
The annual Homecoming Happy Hour on Wednesday, September 25, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. offers faculty and staff a chance to mingle at Coyer Field. As the Bengals Football Team gears up for Saturday’s big game, enjoy appetizers and a drink for just $5.
Tours of the press box and presidential suite will also be available.
Enjoy Quality Music from Buffalo State Alumni
Enjoy a reception and performances from Buffalo State Music Department alumni on Thursday, September 26, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. This celebrated Homecoming tradition is free and open to all.
Get Excited at the Alumni and Family Tailgate
On Saturday, the Alumni and Family Tailgate helps get everyone excited for the game! Food, games, and plenty of Bengal spirit will be on display. Those who attend the tailgate receive free admission to the 5:00 p.m. game, where the Buffalo State Bengals take on Alfred State.
Tickets to the tailgate are $5 per person and include a meal with choice of barbecued chicken, hotdog, or burger with sides like macaroni and cheese and corn salad.
This is just a sampling of the activities available throughout the week. To learn more and for a full schedule of events, please visit the Homecoming website.
Happy Homecoming, Bengals!
Photos by Jesse Steffan-Colucci, Buffalo State photographer.