The University of Southern Mississippi held its traditional Homecoming parade Saturday, Oct. 25, kicking off Homecoming Day. The parade traveled down Hardy Street, turned onto campus, and proceeded through the Eagle Walk.
The Student Government Association organized the parade and planned many of the homecoming festivities. The parade featured campus groups and organizations as well as teams of sorority and fraternity members.
SGA President Leah Johnson said this homecoming has been very special to her.
“This is my last homecoming as a student, right, and it’s just been really special to kind of get to reflect on how much this community has helped shape me,” Johnson said.
She said it was meaningful for her to see all her friends and mentors who have helped shape her over the years. She added that she thinks the community is what makes the university so special.
“It really is just a big family. So getting to have kinda like a little family reunion and everybody is coming home. It’s really special and just like a great time of year,” she said.
Many alumni return this time of year to see old friends and take in all the university has to offer. Alumna Desiree Rodriguez said she is excited to be back.
“I am so excited to see all my friends and make memories with all my current friends,” Rodriguez said.
Lexie Rouse, a friend of Rodriguez, is also an alumna and returned to USM for the homecoming celebration. She said she is excited to be back.
“Yeah, me too. I’m excited to be back at my alma mater and just have a good time. Southern Miss to the top,” Rouse said.
The theme of this year’s Homecoming was “There’s no place like homecoming,” inspired by The Wizard of Oz and Wicked. Many floats in the parade were decorated like the movies, featuring characters such as Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow, and even President Joe Paul and Seymour.
After the parade, many people gathered on campus to tailgate before the game.
“I’m really excited for the game. Obviously, we have a really good team this year, so I’m excited for another Golden Eagle win,” Johnson said. “I’m excited for everyone to officially see our homecoming court. We have a lot of great individuals representing our university this year.”
The homecoming court also participated in the parade, along with dancers, the band, cheerleaders, and more. The parade kicked off a day filled with community and reunion. Many saw it as a time to, as President Joe Paul said, “Come home, Southern Miss, it’s time to come home.”
