Ball State University is calling upon its graduates across the world to celebrate its first Spring Homecoming from April 26-May 1, 2021.
While last year’s 94th annual Homecoming celebration was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Spring Homecoming will feature virtual gatherings, socially distanced campus activities, Cardinal spirit contests, and more. The week-long celebration will culminate in the annual Spring football game on Saturday, May 1.
“While we may not be together, we have so much to celebrate this year,” said Michelle Johnson, Director of Alumni Engagement, Student, Young Alumni and Athletics Programs at the Ball State University Foundation. “With all of our favorite Homecoming activities still happening this Spring, just in a different format, we are excited for our alumni to connect with their fellow Cardinals from wherever they may be.”
A majority of the Spring Homecoming events will be held virtually, and some will be available to stream on Ball State’s website or via the University’s social media platforms. Those events include (all times are EST):
- April 26 — Homecoming Kickoff: Join us for a spirited virtual gathering to kick off Homecoming week. The event will begin at 7 p.m. on April 26 on Zoom. You will hear from President Geoffrey S. Mearns, the Homecoming Steering Committee, Alumni Council Chair Kelli Lawrence, and athletics coaches, and get pumped up by our athletics spirit groups. Registration is now open.
- April 27 — Student Scholarship Talent Search: The Student Scholarship Talent Search will be available to watch starting at 7 p.m. on April 27 on the Ball State Homecoming YouTube page.
- April 28 — Virtual Alumni Panel - Feedback From Our Most Engaged Alumni: Join us for an alumni panel at 4 p.m. on April 28. The audience will gain perspective from current Ball State donors and alumni volunteers as they discuss their involvement with Ball State in terms of their time, talent, and treasure. The event will conclude in a question-and-answer opportunity. Registration is now open.
- April 28 — Alumni Chapter Night: Alumni Chapter Night will begin at 7 p.m. on April 28 on Zoom. The event will be hosted by all four Ball State University Alumni Association chapters and include a Town Hall with President Geoffrey S. Mearns, student showcase with musical performances, and a panel of leaders from alumni chapters. Registration is now open.
- April 29 — Air Jam: Air Jam will begin at 7 p.m. on April 29 on the Ball State Homecoming YouTube page. Judges award points to groups that build Ball State pride and spirit into their act. For Spring Homecoming, participants will be scored on how creative and well they perform their dance.
- April 30 — Bed Race: The annual Bed Race competition will start at noon on April 30. Teams of four race down University Track at the Briner Sports Complex in assigned timeslots to see who will win of one of our most popular annual Homecoming events. Spectators will be able to watch the race virtually. Registration is now open.
- April 30 — Homecoming Alumni Golf Outing: The Homecoming Alumni Golf Outing at the Players Club in Yorktown will begin at 1 p.m. on April 30. Registration is now open.
- April 30 — Alumni Association Virtual Awards Reception: The Alumni Association Virtual Awards Reception will begin at 7 p.m. on April 30 on Zoom. Registration is now open.
As a twist to our traditional Homecoming Parade, Ball State is also hosting a “Cards in the Yard Decorating Contest” throughout Spring Homecoming week. Participants are encouraged to show Cardinal pride by decorating their room, office, business/department, and lawn. Simply email your photos or videos to Josie Marcum by 5 p.m. on April 26 to show off your Ball State Homecoming spirit.
Ball State graduates are also encouraged to enter their children and grandchildren in the running for the fifth annual Ball State Homecoming Prince/Princess Program. Those chosen must be available to attend the Virtual Homecoming Kickoff event on the evening of Monday, April 26. Winners will receive Ball State gear, a family Ball State prize pack, and royalty gear to wear. They will also be recognized on social media.
- The Lady and Lad must be between the ages of 0-4 and not in grade school at the time of Homecoming (April 26-May 1).
- The Prince and Princess must be in grades K-5 at the time of Homecoming (April 26- May 1).
- Two children each will be selected from the Lady and Lad and Prince and Princess categories.
Click here to apply for this exciting program. Applications must be submitted by 4 p.m. Friday, April 9.
For updated event information, visit the Ball State Homecoming website, and follow Ball State Homecoming on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.