Manchester University’s Homecoming 2022 is Saturday, Oct. 22 at the North Manchester campus. The theme for this year is “Black & Gold, Forever Bold.” Register here.
Alumni are welcomed back to campus for the annual Homecoming event, which will include many beloved traditions. The Alumni Honor Awards and peace studies plaque dedication in honor of Archbishop Desmond Tutu are among the planned events. There will also be a football game versus Bluffton University, where an announcement about Manchester’s bold future will be made.
Reunions this year are for the classes of 2017, 2012, 2007, 2002, 1997, 1992, 1987, 1982, 1977 and a special 50th reunion for the Class of 1972.
Dedication of the Manchester Chime being built on the Manchester University Mall is set for 11 a.m. on Saturday. The structure will house Manchester’s historic Chime, formerly in the Administration Building. 2022 marks the 100th anniversary of the Chime.
Scheduled events for the day include:
- Alumni Honor Awards Banquet at 9 a.m. in the upper Jo Young Switzer Center
- Spartan Street Fair from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the drive between Burt Field and Spartan Stadium (Cash only)
- Manchester Chime dedication at 11 a.m. on the Manchester University Mall
- Food trucks from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the drive between Burt Field and Spartan Stadium
- Live music from local band Friends with the Weather from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. behind the PERC
- Class photos and reunions from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Reunion Tent
- Soccer games at 1 and 3 p.m. at Good Field
- Football game vs. Bluffton at 1:30 p.m.
- Peace studies plaque dedication at 2 p.m. in the Gladdys Muir Peace Garden
- Environmental Studies 50th Anniversary at 3:30 p.m. at the Environmental Studies Cabin
- Alumni of Color Reunion from 4-5 p.m. at the Jean Childs Young Intercultural Center
- 50th Class Reunion Dinner at 5:30 p.m. in the upper level of the Switzer Center
- Volleyball game at 7 p.m. in the PERC
Food options for those with dietary restrictions will be available.
Children are encouraged to join in the fun at the Kids Zone behind the PERC, which will have face painting and crafts, between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Homecoming week events
In the week leading up to Homecoming, starting Oct. 17, virtual events will include the Homecoming Virtual 5K, Coffee with Dave live on Facebook, Campus Store Flash Sale and virtual class reunions. See the Alumni page on the Manchester University website for more information.
Activities for students will include traditions like Spirit Week dress-up days and a bonfire, as well as a career fair hosted by Career and Professional Development. A residence hall banner contest will take place the week prior.
-Chloe Leckrone ’22