Kendry Crabtree
Reporter
As the countdown to MUW's Homecoming Week begins, anticipation begins to rise among the faculty, students, alums and the MUW community for a week of tradition, camaraderie and spirited festivities. From April 4-7, the campus will come alive with a vibrant array of events catering to every taste and interest.
Kicking off the festivities on Thursday, April 4, graduating seniors can participate in the Spring Fling event from 1-3 p.m. Hosted at the W Room in the Hogarth Student Union, juniors and seniors are invited to have a free headshot photograph taken, mingle with members of the MUW Alumni Association, and receive a special gift — a perfect keepsake of their time at MUW.
Later in the evening, students and alums alike will gather for the Interclub March, a cherished tradition that brings together members of BlackList, Jesters and Maskers. The march, commencing at 6:30 p.m. in front of the Hogarth Dining Center, promises an evening filled with nostalgia and community spirit.
Elizabeth Holland, a graduating senior, is a second-year Maskers member who is excited about the Interclub March.
“It's not just a tradition; it's a reminder of memories, friendship, and the spirit of MUW. The march symbolizes unity, bringing together students and alumni from different social clubs to celebrate our shared experiences,” she said. “As I prepare to graduate, the Interclub March becomes a bittersweet moment for me as a reminder of the cherished memories and lifelong friendships that I'll carry with me beyond the gates of MUW.”
For those with an eye for the arts, the day concludes with a captivating theatre performance of "Bourbon and Laundry" at the Black Box Theatre in Cromwell Hall. Starting at 8 p.m., alums and students are welcome to watch the talent of MUW's students in the Department of Theatre.
On Friday, April 5, the campus buzzes with activity, starting with friendly competitions between alums and students at the Alumni vs. Students: Join in the Games event. From 2:30-3:30 p.m., students can join in the fun at Pohl Gymnasium Lawn, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship in various games and challenges.
As the sun sets, the Magnolia Mingle takes center stage from 6-10:00 p.m. Hosted by the MUW Alumni Association, it takes place on the Shattuck Hall Lawn. The Magnolia Mingle is the highlight of 2024 Homecoming Week, promising a delightful blend of music, food trucks and excitement. Attendees can compete for the Magnolia Mingle Drawdown, with separate fees for the souvenir cup and drawdown tickets, promising an evening of laughter, memories and perhaps a stroke of luck.
The Magnolia Mingle Food Truck Tickets are free for all MUW students who fill out a form on the Long Blue Line website. Students can RSVP for Homecoming Week and Magnolia Mingle at: Homecoming Student Registration—Mississippi University for Women Foundation (muw.edu).
Registration for Homecoming closes Monday, April 1, at 5 p.m., and there will be no on-site registration.
Saturday, April 6, is a day for reunions and reminiscence. Four-year social clubs, local fraternities/sororities and student organizations will come together from 1:30-3 p.m., and from 4-5:30 p.m., the festivities will continue with two-year social club reunions. Locations will be announced closer to the date.
These activities provide a way for current organization members to visit with alumni members.
“I am excited about meeting the past alumni of the Lockheart’s,” said Katie Frederick, a member of the Lockheart Social Club. “The reunions are a great way for the current social club members to meet the alumni, which keeps the traditions of the social clubs alive.”
Some of the more cherished memories for alums are after graduation, walking through campus, visiting with old classmates and social club members, sharing stories, and enjoying the spirited festivities that bridge the alums and students together.
Lana White, a class of ’87 member, said she always looks forward to Homecoming.
“One cherished memory that stands out to me is attending the Golden Girl luncheon during Homecoming Week. It was a heartwarming experience to reunite with fellow alumni who had graduated alongside me. The atmosphere was filled with nostalgia as we sang our social club and class songs and caught up with one another. What made it truly special was the sense of community and connection – it felt like everyone knew everyone, creating a warm and welcoming environment that I'll always treasure.”
It's been a couple of years since White has been able to attend Homecoming Week, but she said "the bond of sisterhood" embodies the belief of "once a W girl, always a W girl."
From lively competitions to heartfelt reunions, Homecoming Week is set to celebrate tradition, unity and the bonds that unite generations of MUW students.