WILSON, N.C. — October 1, 2024 — Barton College invites alumni, friends, students, faculty, staff, and the greater Wilson community to embrace a “Wilson State of Mind” for Homecoming Weekend 2024, happening November 1-2. With a full slate of exciting events and activities planned, this year’s Homecoming promises to be a memorable celebration of Bulldog pride and community partnership.
“We are excited to welcome everyone back to Barton for Homecoming 2024, where we’ll celebrate not only our Barton family but also the greater Wilson community,” shared Katie Thomason, Director of Development and Alumni Engagement. “From honoring our 50+ year graduates at the Torchbearers Ceremony to dancing the night away at the Bulldog Bash with the ‘Sleeping Booty Band’, and enjoying the camaraderie at the Center Campus tailgate with a variety of tent packages and additional kids zone activities, there’s something for everyone. This year’s Homecoming is all about coming together to share in the traditions and spirit that make Barton College so special.”
Homecoming 2024 will kick off with the ever-popular Alumni Association Golf Tournament at Wilson Country Club on Friday, November 1. The tournament will begin with check-in at 9:00 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 10:30 a.m. Golfers of all skill levels will have the chance to enjoy a fun-filled day of friendly competition while supporting the Alumni Association Endowed Scholarship.
At 4:00 p.m., the community is invited to join us at 706 Corbett Avenue NE for the dedication of the renovated tennis facilities, newly named the Michalak Tennis Complex. This special event, hosted by the Office of Institutional Advancement and the Division of Athletics, will celebrate the generosity of the Michalak’s and the many supporters of the tennis program at Barton College. RSVP is requested by emailing Tom Maze, Assistant Vice President of Leadership Giving, at [email protected].
Later that evening, the Bulldog Bash will bring everyone back to Center Campus from 6:30-9:30 p.m. for a vibrant celebration featuring live music from the “Sleeping Booty Band”, food trucks, local brews, and a lively atmosphere to set the scene for the weekend ahead. Alumni, students, faculty, staff, and members of the greater Wilson community are invited to participate.
The festivities will continue on Saturday, November 2, with the Torchbearers 50 Year Legacy Society Induction Ceremony and Breakfast in Hardy Alumni Hall, honoring the Class of 1974 as they celebrate their 50th reunion. This special event will recognize alumni for their connection to the College and their lasting contributions to its legacy. Eligible alumni would like to register for this event may do so by contacting Katie Thomason at [email protected] or by calling (252) 399-6544.
Following the ceremony, alumni and friends alike will connect on Center Campus for tailgating, where food trucks, lawn games, live music, and fun activities for the kids will be available leading up to the thrilling Homecoming football game against Catawba College. For those seeking a convenient and hassle-free experience to gather with their group or organization, tent packages are available, offering alumni and guests a dedicated space to tailgate in the heart of campus. Tent packages can be purchased within the Homecoming Registration form.
The excitement will build as everyone gathers for the Homecoming football game against Catawba College at 2:00 p.m. on Electric Supply Company Field at Truist Stadium. Football tickets can be purchased by visiting the Barton College Athletics website, but don’t delay, tickets usually sell out quickly!
The weekend will conclude with the Homecoming Dance, where alumni, students, and friends will come together for one last celebration. The dance is the perfect way to cap off a weekend of fellowship, friends, and fun. The dance, under the big tent, will begin at 8:00 p.m.
Adding even more excitement to the weekend, Homecoming 2024 will coincide with the Whirligig Festival, taking place downtown just minutes from Barton’s campus. Attendees can enjoy local arts and crafts, live entertainment, and food vendors as part of this larger community celebration. Several downtown businesses will also be participating in celebrating Barton’s Homecoming as Social Partners, offering discounts and Barton-themed specials.
“Homecoming for ACC/Barton alumni is the culmination of the collegiate life we experienced from move-in day to graduation and every year since,” says Amy Denton, Class of 1994 and Alumni Association Board President. “What an exciting opportunity to come home; to come back to the place that started it all and see old friends, meet new friends, and reminisce. It’s a time we all feel reconnected and grateful for our alma mater and the pathway of life it gave us.” Denton, in her third year as Alumni Board President, encourages all alumni to find their way back to campus for Homecoming. “Whether it’s been a year or 50 years since you’ve been back, register for Homecoming 2024 today. Join us for an energy-packed weekend. You’ll smile from beginning to end!”
Barton College warmly invites all alumni, students, faculty, staff, friends, and community members to come together and enjoy all that Homecoming Weekend 2024 has to offer. For more information on the schedule of events and to register, visit the Homecoming website at https://alumni.barton.edu/homecoming/
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