Bucknell’s 2024 Homecoming Weekend brought together students, alumni, families and faculty for a packed schedule of events on Oct. 18, 19 and 20. The annual celebration, a tradition deeply rooted in Bucknell’s spirit, featured a blend of social gatherings, athletic competitions and academic events. From reunions and football games to arts and networking opportunities, Homecoming was a special occasion that united the Bucknell community in both nostalgia and anticipation for the future.
Day One: Reunions and Networking
The festivities kicked off on Friday, Oct. 18, with a variety of daytime events aimed at connecting current students and alumni. The Alumni Career Networking Reception, held at the ELC, provided an opportunity for students to meet and learn from successful alumni across various industries. Conversations buzzed as alumni shared insights into their career paths and offered valuable advice to students seeking internships, jobs and professional guidance.
In the evening, alumni from multiple class years gathered for their respective Reunion Receptions. These events brought together former classmates, allowing them to reminisce and relive their shared memories at Bucknell. The sense of camaraderie was palpable as alumni reconnected with old friends and professors and visited their favorite campus spots. The Class of 2014, celebrating their 10th reunion, hosted a particularly lively gathering, with some alumni expressing their excitement to be back on campus for the first time since graduation.
Later that night, Bucknell’s Homecoming Kickoff Pep Rally ignited the Bison spirit. Held at the KLARC, the event featured performances by the Bison Band, the cheerleading team and the dance team, all of whom rallied the crowd for the weekend’s events. Students and alumni, dressed in orange and blue, cheered with excitement as football players and other student-athletes took the stage, promising a strong showing in the weekend’s games.
Day Two: Sports and Traditions
Saturday, Oct. 19, began with a continuation of reunion gatherings and other alumni events, but the highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Homecoming football game. As fans filled Christy Mathewson-Memorial Stadium, a sense of anticipation lingered in the air. The Bison took on Cornell in a thrilling matchup that showcased the team’s determination and competitive spirit. Despite the Bison’s best efforts, they were narrowly defeated, with a final score of 34-21. However, the close game kept fans on the edge of their seats!
For those interested in campus life beyond athletics, Saturday also featured the “State of the University Address” from President John Bravman. Delivered in the Weis Center for the Performing Arts, the address offered an update on Bucknell’s initiatives and achievements. President Bravman spoke about the University’s growth, new academic programs and the success of its students and faculty, while also emphasizing the importance of alumni support in continuing to strengthen Bucknell’s legacy. His address was a highlight for alumni looking to stay informed about the school’s happenings and inspired optimism about Bucknell’s direction in the years ahead.
Another notable event on Saturday was the Alumni Awards Ceremony, which honored several distinguished Bucknell alumni for their accomplishments and contributions to their fields and communities. This year’s honorees included leaders in business, the arts, education and philanthropy, each of whom shared stories about how their time at Bucknell helped shape their professional and personal lives. The event provided an opportunity for current students to see the long-lasting impact that a Bucknell education can have, while also celebrating the diversity of alumni achievements.
As Saturday came to a close, Bucknell hosted the Homecoming Dance, a longstanding tradition that allowed alumni to let loose and celebrate the weekend. Held in the ELC, the dance featured live music and an energetic crowd, giving attendees a chance to dress up and enjoy the evening in a more formal setting. The dance was a perfect way to cap off a busy day of events, bringing together the Bucknell community in celebration.
Day Three: Final Events and Farewells
The weekend concluded on Sunday, Oct. 20. Alumni and their families gathered for a Farewell Brunch in the Terrace Room in the ELC, where they shared stories from the weekend and exchanged contact information with new and old friends. The brunch marked the final official event of Homecoming Weekend, allowing attendees to savor their last moments on campus before heading home.
Additionally, Sunday offered several cultural and educational events, including a Gallery Exhibition at the Samek Art Museum. The exhibition featured alumni-donated works by professional artists, highlighting the University’s commitment to fostering creativity across generations. The exhibit was a quiet yet impactful close to the weekend, allowing visitors to reflect on Bucknell’s rich history of artistic achievement.
Bucknell’s 2024 Homecoming Weekend was a true celebration of the University’s past, present and future. The event allowed alumni to reconnect with the institution that helped shape them while giving current students an opportunity to embrace the school’s traditions and values. As the University continues to grow and evolve, Homecoming remains a powerful reminder of the ties that bind Bucknellians across generations. Whether alumni had graduated last year or fifty years ago, they all left Homecoming with a renewed sense of pride in their alma mater and excitement for its future. The events of the weekend highlighted the deep connections shared by Bucknellians and reaffirmed the University’s enduring community spirit. ‘Ray Bucknell!
