Homecoming

October 23-28, 2023

Celebrate the University of Kansas’ 111th Homecoming Oct. 23-28, culminating in the KU football game against Oklahoma on Oct. 28 in David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Rah Rah Jayhawk,” a nod to the origins of the Rock Chalk chant and Jayhawk nostalgia.

Homecoming Information Packet

Calling all KU students: Any questions about Homecoming? Wondering how you or your student organization can get involved?

Check out the Homecoming Info Packet, complete with a full competition schedule, event descriptions, awards information and more.

You also can view our pre-recorded information session here.

Homecoming Information Packet

Calling all KU students: Do you bleed Crimson and Blue? If so, the Homecoming Steering Committee wants YOU!

Join the KU Alumni Association to plan a robust week of fun-filled festivities for 2023 Homecoming! The Homecoming Steering Committee serves as the primary driver of the Homecoming experience, and its responsibilities are to plan an experience that enhances Jayhawk pride in the KU community near and far.

This is a student leadership opportunity available to students who are searching to strengthen event planning skills, build and enrich KU traditions and are eager to get involved with the KU Alumni Association.

Call for Programs

The KU Alumni Association and Homecoming Steering Committee welcome you to submit a program or an event for our Homecoming calendar of events on behalf of your organization or department.

Submissions will be accepted until August 16, and not all submissions are guaranteed approval. Approved events will be announced by August 22.

Info Packet

Calling all KU students: Any questions about Homecoming? Wondering how you or your student organization can get involved?

Check out the Homecoming Info Packet, complete with a full competition schedule, event descriptions, awards information and more. You also can view our pre-recorded information session here.

Homecoming Awards

Three Homecoming awards recognize outstanding students and alumni each year. The Ex.C.E.L. Award recognizes two students with outstanding leadership, involvement and academics. The Jennifer Alderdice Homecoming Award recognizes a student who demonstrate outstanding loyalty and dedication. Finally, the Spirit of 1912 Award honors KU graduates for their lifelong commitment to the University.

Info Packet

Calling all KU students: Any questions about Homecoming? Wondering how you or your student organization can get involved?

Check out the Homecoming Info Packet, complete with a full competition schedule, event descriptions, awards information and more. You also can view our pre-recorded information session here.

Homecoming Awards

Call for Programs

The KU Alumni Association and Homecoming Steering Committee encourage campus and community partners to submit an event for the Homecoming calendar on behalf of your department or organization.

Submissions will continue to be accepted on a rolling basis, with approved events shared on the Homecoming calendar.

Agreement form

Are you or your student organization participating in the Homecoming Competition? Fill out the agreement form to get registered by Friday Oct. 13 at 5 p.m.

Homecoming Info Session

The KU Alumni Association and Homecoming Steering Committee will hold a virtual Homecoming Information Session Sept. 5 from 3 to 4 p.m. Any KU campus or Lawrence community partners interested in hosting an event are invited to attend.

Register here for the information session, which will be recorded and available later to those who register.

Homecoming Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

As a proud sponsor of KUAA, Best Western Plus – West Lawrence is the Parents HQ for students and families. KUAA Members receive 20% off every stay. Parents receive 20% off during campus visits, move-in days, Parents Weekend, graduation, and sports events. FREE hot breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center, pet-friendly. Adjacent to Rock Chalk Park.

Presenting Sponsor

Central Bank of the Midwest is the Community Banking Partner for the University of Kansas. They will operate a new bank branch in the Kansas Union, making it the fifth branch in Lawrence. Central Bank has been serving businesses and customers since 1902 on a strong foundation of people, community service and technology. The bank is a more than $20 billion financial institution with more than 250 locations in more than 90 communities serving consumers and businesses in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Oklahoma, Tennessee, North Carolina, Colorado Iowa and Florida.

Presenting Sponsor

Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. is reshaping and revolutionizing the workplace to achieve true connectivity through the Intelligent Connected Workplace. The company guides and supports its clients’ digital transformation through its expansive office technology portfolio, including IT Services (All Covered), intelligent information management, managed print services and industrial and commercial print solutions. Konica Minolta has been recognized as the #1 Brand for Customer Loyalty in the MFP Office Copier Market by Brand Keys for fifteen consecutive years and is proud to be ranked on the Forbes 2021 America’s Best-in-State employers’ list.

Presenting Sponsor of Home Football Friday

Truity Credit Union is a “not for profit, but for service” cooperative financial institution founded in 1939. We offer a full range of financial services to our members from basic savings and checking accounts to mortgage loans to complex investment planning.

2023 Schedule Overview

Date	Activity	Location	Time	Audience
Sept. 10	Ex. C.E.L. Award applications open	online sign up	8 a.m.	Students
Sept. 10	Alderdice Award applications open	online sign up	8 a.m.	Students
Sept. 10	Spirit of 1912 Award applications open	online sign up	8 a.m.	Alumni, Public
Sept. 27	Student Homecoming information session	Online	6-7 p.m.	Students
Oct. 6	Ex.C.E.L. Award applications close		5 p.m.	Students
Oct. 6	Alderdice Award applications close		5 p.m.	Students
Oct. 6	Spirit of 1912 Award applications close		5 p.m.	Alumni, Public

Oct. 13	Alumni Band Registration Deadline	Online	11:59 p.m.	Alumni
Oct. 17	Ex.C.E.L. Finalists notified			Students
Oct. 17	Alderdice Finalists notified			Students
Oct. 23	Homecoming Sign Competition Begins	Jayhawk Welcome Center		Students
Oct. 23	Homecoming Kick-Off	Jayhawk Welcome Center, Front Lawn & Patio	5:30-7:30 PM	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 24	Spirit Bus!	Campus Bus	12-2 p.m.	Students
Oct. 24	The Senator Bob Dole Tribute Earthwork	Dole Institute of Politics	12-4 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 24	A Question of Respect: Bringing Us Together in a Deeply Divided Nation	Dole Institute of Politics	7 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 24	Homecoming Awards Banquet	Jayhawk Welcome Center, The Pub & Bruckmiller	6-7:30 p.m.	Students
Oct. 24	Glowtopia	Royal Crest Lanes	10 pm.-12 a.m.	Students
Oct. 25	Jayhawk Buddy System Giveaway	Watkins Memorial Health Center, East Sidewalk	11 a.m.	Students
Oct. 25	The Senator Bob Dole Tribute Earthwork	Dole Institute of Politics	12-4 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 25	Canceled: Hawktober Movie Night
Oct. 26	The Senator Bob Dole Tribute Earthwork	Dole Institute of Politics	12-4 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 26	Gray-Little Hall dedication ceremony	Gray-Little Hall	4:30 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 26	Alumni Trivia Night	Wayne & Larry’s Sports Bar & Grill	6-8 p.m.	Alumni, Public
Oct. 26	Jayhawk Jingles	Kansas Memorial Union, Woodruff Auditorum	6-8 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 26	KU Black Alumni Network Reunion: Mike and Joyce Shinn African American Leaders and Innovators Award Reception	Jayhawk Welcome Center	6:30-10 p.m.	Alumni
Oct. 26	Karaoke Night	Daisy Hill Commons Quad, Lawn	7-9 p.m.	Students
Oct. 27	The Senator Bob Dole Tribute Earthwork	Dole Institute of Politics	12-4 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 27	Chalk N’ Rock	Jayhawk Welcome Center, Front Lawn	1-3 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 27	Home Football Friday: Homecoming Edition	Jayhawk Welcome Center, Front Lawn	1-3 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 27	KU Black Alumni Network Reunion Weekend: Mocktails and Mingle	Jayhawk Welcome Center	3-6 p.m.	Students, Alumni
Oct. 27	KU Alumni Band 50th Anniversary Reunion	TBD	4-6 p.m.	Alumni
Oct. 27	Rock Chalk Block Party	Massachusetts St.	5:30-9 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 27	KU Law Reunion Dinner \| Celebrating classes ’78, ’83, ’93, ’98, ’03, and ’13	The Oread	6-9 p.m.	Alumni
Oct. 27	BSU Homecoming Pageant	Woodruff Auditorium	6:30 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 28	The Senator Bob Dole Tribute Earthwork	Dole Institute of Politics	12-4 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 28	KU Alumni Band 50th Anniversary Reunion	TBD	TBD	Alumni
Oct. 28	KU Law Homecoming Tailgate	The Hill	TBD	Alumni
Oct. 28	KU Black Alumni Network Reunion Weekend: Business Meeting	Jayhawk Welcome Center	TBD	Alumni
Oct. 28	KU Alumni Association Gameday at the Jayhawk Welcome Center Tailgate	Jayhawk Welcome Center	8:30-10:30 a.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 28	Homecoming Leaders Reunion	Jayhawk Welcome Center, Student Leadership Suite	8:30-11 a.m.	Alumni
Oct. 28	KU vs Oklahoma Football Game Purchase tickets here	David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium	11 a.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 28	KU Black Alumni Network Reunion Weekend: Kickback Party	Jayhawk Welcome Center	8-11 p.m.	Alumni
Oct. 29	Rock Chalk 5K: Supporting First Generations Students	KU Edwards BEST Building	8:45-10:30 a.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 29	The Senator Bob Dole Tribute Earthwork	Dole Institute of Politics	12-4 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public
Oct. 29	Nikki Glaser: The Good Girl Tour	Lied Center of Kansas	7:30 p.m.	Students, Alumni, Public

Homecoming Sponsors

Homecoming Origin

On November 23, 1912, KU played its first Homecoming football game against well-established rivals the Missouri Tigers. At a bonfire in front of Fraser Hall the Friday before the game, the ceremonial burning of a wooden tiger riled KU students. The next day, in front of 9,000 cheering fans, the Jayhawks defeated Missouri 12-3. For years, it was custom to play Missouri for every other Homecoming game.

A Rich History

Homecoming Awards

In 1925, the first Homecoming Queen was crowned at KU, but the ceremony did not become tradition until 1933. A new queen was crowned each year until 1969, when anti-war demonstrations and stormy race relations led to the committee’s decision that it was “more appropriate to recognize those who embody the academic spirit for which this community was established.” The Ex.C.E.L. Award now recognizes two students with outstanding leadership, involvement and academics. Two more awards have since been created: the Spirit of 1912 Award honors KU graduates for lifelong commitment to the University; and the Jennifer Alderdice Homecoming Award recognizes current students who demonstrate outstanding loyalty and dedication. Learn more about and apply for Homecoming awards.

Homecoming Themes

In 1956 KU introduced Homecoming themes. The first official theme was “Songs of Victory.” At the time, the theme was incorporated into lawn decorations created by fraternities, sororities and residence halls. Today, the theme provides a basis for Homecoming Week celebrations and guides the week’s events.

Homecoming Traditions

A century later, some traditions and events remain while others have become Homecoming lore. Hobo Day was an integral part of celebrations in the 1920s, complete with costumes, pep rallies and street theatre. A student talent show called Jayhawk Follies has evolved into today’s Jayhawk Jingles. The 1971 game against Kansas State unveiled a second KU mascot when Baby Jay hatched during halftime.

Today, students spend Homecoming Week participating in campus activities that build spirit and benefit the Lawrence community. By Saturday, they are ready to showcase their floats in the annual parade down Jayhawk Boulevard and cheer the Jayhawks to another Homecoming victory.

In 2011, Rich and Judy Billings of Lakewood, Colo., both 1957 KU graduates, created an endowment to fund future editions of Homecoming.

The KU Alumni Association serves as the primary host of the Steering Committee with the support of the entire KU campus and Lawrence community. The committee consists of 10 students and two advisers from the KU Alumni Association.

Homecoming Steering Committee

The Homecoming Steering Committee serves as a primary driver of the Homecoming experience by planning a robust experience that enhances Jayhawk pride. Students are selected after an application and interview process organized by the KU Alumni Association.

The 2023 Homecoming Steering Committee is:

-Thanh Tan Nguyen, a senior in business analytics and, supply chain management from Phu Yen, Vietnam, executive director.

-Nana Ansere Amfo Sackey, a junior in visual communication and design from Accra, Ghana, and Lawrence, programs chair.

-Jess Mumm, a junior in strategic communications and business from Omaha, Nebraska, programs co-chair.

-Andy Denekas, a graduate student in business and pre-law from Omaha, Nebraska, awards chair.

-Shayslyne Campos, a senior in marketing and psychology from Kansas City, Missouri, and Lawrence, public relations/outreach chair.

-Anna Korn, a junior in sport management from Phoenix, competitions chair.

-Aria Woolsey, a junior in strategic communications and psychology from River Falls, Wisconsin, public relations/outreach co-chair.

Marching Jayhawks

Mark your calendar for a live-streamed performance by the Marching Jayhawks at 5:40 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, ending with a Team KC flyover at 6 p.m.

KYou Networking Week

One Jayhawk connection can change your world! Find virtual events to connect with fellow ’Hawks in a variety of industries.

Homecoming Shirts

Commemorate Homecoming and add to your collection with this year’s T-shirt, available in-store or online from the KU Bookstore.

Virtual Bingo

Our free virtual Homecoming Bingo event brings Jayhawks together for a week-long game full of prizes, fun and nostalgia.

Bridges

Bridges is KU’s new marketplace for connecting students and recent grads to real-world, experiential projects that benefit businesses.

Scavenger Hunt

Test your knowledge of Mount Oread’s art, icons and statues in our virtual Homecoming scavenger hunt—you can play whether you’re near or far.

Awards

Three Homecoming awards recognize outstanding students and alumni each year: the Ex.C.E.L. Award, the Spirit of 1912 Award, and the Jennifer Alderdice Homecoming Award.

Fun Facts

Do you know when KU’s first Homecoming Parade was held? Have you heard of Dandelion Day? Learn more fun facts from past Homecoming celebrations.

Past Themes

KU introduced Homecoming themes in 1956. The first theme was “Songs for Victory.” The theme provides a basis for the week’s celebrations and helps guide events.

Football Games

Find a complete record of past KU Homecoming football games including KU’s opponent, game scores, head coaches, attendance numbers and other fun facts.

Contact Us

Have questions? Let us know.

paigefreeman
@kualumni.org

Call

800.584.2957

Address

1266 Oread Ave.
Lawrence Kansas 66045

paigefreeman@kualumni.org

Call

800.584.2957

Address

1266 Oread Ave.
Lawrence Kansas 66045

Homecoming

October 23-28, 2023

Homecoming Information Packet

Homecoming Information Packet

Call for Programs

Info Packet

Homecoming Awards

Info Packet

Homecoming Awards

Call for Programs

Agreement form

Homecoming Info Session

Homecoming Sponsors

2023 Schedule Overview

Homecoming Sponsors

Homecoming Origin

A Rich History

A Rich History