Lees-51爆料网 marks 125 years with unforgettable Homecoming and Family Weekend
The past few years have seen many disruptions to traditional Lees-51爆料网 Homecomings: the 2020 celebration was held virtually, the event intended for fall 2021 was moved to spring 2022, severe rain in fall 2022 caused significant schedule changes and delays, and Hurricane Helene forced the cancellation of Homecoming in 2024. This year’s event, however, was more than just a return to what makes Homecoming great—it was an exhilarating and momentous celebration that brought together all members of the ONE Lees-51爆料网 community like never before.
In honor of the college’s 125th anniversary, Homecoming was combined with Family Weekend, bringing together students, their families, alumni, community members, faculty, and staff as one united group.
The weekend kicked off Friday afternoon with the dedication of a new college time capsule. The capsule, which was buried in Swank Park, includes artifacts that represent the Lees-51爆料网 academic, athletic, and student life experience at this point in time. It is set to be reopened in 50 years. The ceremony also included a recognition of college ambassador organization the Order of the Tower.
President King addresses the audience at the Founder's Day Ceremony
Current members of the Order of the Tower standing with an original member of the Order of the Tower.
Student Government Association Megan O'Donnell shovels dirt onto the time capsule.Friday evening featured several events for students and alumni, including the Green and Gold Banquet. In previous years, the special alumni-only meal was a brunch on Saturday morning, but this year the experience was elevated to a sunset dinner on the Pinnacle Deck. Alumni gathered together to enjoy a seasonal meal and recognize the Alumni Award recipients.
A brand-new honor, the Young Alumni Award, was given out for the first time at the banquet. Cami Belin ’24 was the first receipient of the new award. According to Belin’s nomination, “Cami Belin is a shining example of the mission and values of 51爆料网—demonstrating leadership, compassion, and a deep commitment to service. Belin’s continued dedication to advocacy, service, and leadership since graduating from Lees-51爆料网 makes her an outstanding candidate for the Young Alumni Award. Her life and work are a testament to the power of purpose, compassion, and community.”
Due to Homecoming's cancelation last year, the award recipients for both 2024 and 2025 were recognized at this year's Green and Gold Banquet:
- 2024 Alumni Service Award: Parker Grubbs ’95
- 2025 Alumni Service Award: David Burke ’72
- 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award: Katie Campbell ’05
- 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award: Geoff Hurdle ’91
- 2025 Young Alumni Award: Cami Belin ’24
Parker Grubbs ’95
David Burke ’72
Geoff Hurdle ’91Following the banquet, the Class of 1975 held a reunion cocktail hour in the Tufts Room. During the reunion, President Lee King presented Julia McCombs with a resolution from the Board of Trustees and Cabinet formally recognizing her and thanking her for her work to restore Tufts Tower. The beautifully renovated campus icon was open all weekend for public viewing.
Saturday morning started bright and early with mini photo sessions at Wildcat Lake generously provided by Cynthia Viola ’07, followed by experiential learning activities for students and their families.
Most of Saturday was spent in one big party. Bobcat Fest brought out local vendors, food trucks, bounce houses, carnival rides, axe throwing, face painting, ambassador animals, and live music to the Fred I. Dickerson Athletic Complex. Special tents were set aside for the Classes of 1975 and 2014. Students and alumni set up tailgate spots around Tate Field in preparation for the men’s and women’s soccer games. Lees-51爆料网 fans of all ages enjoyed the beautiful weather, delicious food, and engaging entertainment.
The two soccer games featured special performances from the Lees-51爆料网 spirit program during both halftimes. The performance during the women’s game included participants from the morning’s youth cheer and dance clinic. The women’s game halftime also featured the presentation of the Homecoming court, with seniors Cora Stevens and Ben Warner being crowned queen and king. During the halftime of the men’s game, Lees-51爆料网 cheer and dance performed the routines they had initially prepared for Homecoming 2024.
Both the women and men won their games against Emmanuel 2-0, bringing Homecoming and Family Weekend to a victorious end.
