A popular song from the 80s rock group, Starship serves as the inspiration for The University of Southern Mississippi’s 2024 Homecoming week, themed “We Built This City on Black and Gold.” The USM community is encouraged to come out and celebrate all the festivities the coming days will offer.
Tatum Hansen, a senior interior design major from Madison is the Chief of Staff for the Student Government Association (SGA) and was very instrumental in planning this year’s theme.
“The homecoming theme was chosen after I spent time brainstorming and researching what other schools around the country were doing for their homecoming themes,” she said. “I wanted to find a theme that would resonate across campus and give different teams something fun and engaging to build on. This year, the theme we landed on was “Rock.” Thinking about some iconic rock songs, I came up with the theme “We Built this City on Black and Gold.” I brought the idea to the SGA Executive Board and some key members of the administration. And together, we decided it was the perfect fit for this year’s festivities.”
Hansen said she was very intentional when coming up with this year’s theme.
“Our theme was chosen to symbolize the deep-rooted pride, tradition, and community spirit that have shaped both Southern Miss and the Hattiesburg area,” she explained. “We’ve been intentional about making sure this theme resonates throughout the week in each event we’ve planned. From selecting the professional staff who help lighten our load, to organizing point-earning opportunities for competing teams, our goal has been to create an experience that everyone can enjoy, even those not participating on a team. We really want to emphasize inclusivity and community, ensuring that every student, alumni, and faculty member feels a sense of pride and ownership in bringing Southern Miss spirit to life.”
Hansen also expressed enthusiasm when discussing the significance of homecoming to her.
“Homecoming, to me, is a time when the campus truly comes alive with excitement and unity,” she explained. “It’s not just a celebration of school pride but also a chance for alumni to reconnect, for students to come together, and for us all to reflect on the traditions that have shaped our community. What I love most about homecoming is seeing that blend of old and new, with current students and past graduates celebrating side by side. It represents continuity, growth, and the shared experience of being part of something larger than ourselves.”
This year’s homecoming features several events and activities. And Hasen was quick to point out her favorites.
“I’m especially looking forward to Bring It On, Eagle Style,” she said. “I love the energy and excitement the teams bring while competing for the title of “Most Spirited.” And I always enjoy seeing the creative dances people come up with. The passion and school pride really shine during this event, and it’s one of my favorite parts of homecoming.”
Events over the next few days include:
Thursday, Oct. 17
— 26th Annual Alumni Homecoming Scholarship Golf Tournament at 1:00 p.m. at the Hattiesburg Country Club.
Friday, Oct. 18
— Fountain Sit at Shoemaker Square from 12-4 p.m.
— Alumni Hall of Fame Banquet at 6:30 p.m. in the Thad Cochran Center Grand Ballroom.
— Friday Night @ Spirit Park at 6 p.m. at Southern Station in Spirit Park.
— NPHC Step Show at 7:30 p.m. in Bennett Auditorium.
Saturday, Oct. 19
— Southern Miss Alumni Annual Meeting at 10:30 a.m. in the Thad Cochran Center Grand Ballroom.
— Homecoming Parade at 1 p.m. along Hardy Street.
— Eagle Walk at 3:45 p.m. throughout campus.
— Pregame at Southern Station at 4 p.m. in Spirit Park.
— Southern Miss vs. Arkansas State at 6 p.m. at The Rock.