This year, Albion College’s homecoming was combined with its annual family day, bringing the two events together on Friday and Saturday to create “One Weekend. One Albion.” Students, alumni and families gathered on campus to celebrate yet another year of Albion’s long-standing traditions.
Throughout the day, alumni, students and other distinguished guests were encouraged to stop by the Quad to sign a beam that will be installed as part of the Dow’s renovation project. After signing the beam, T-shirts were available to promote Albion College’s new Purple and Bold campaign. The Albion College Student Senate was invited to sign the beam shortly before the football game kickoff while The Board of Trustees and Alumni Association Board were invited to sign the beam the day before homecoming.
Open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., the Alumni Lounge was something new to Albion’s homecoming celebration this year. Located on the Quad, it featured couches, refreshments, food and music, celebrating a reunion for alumni of all classes. The purpose was to create connections among alumni from all different generations. Current student leaders on campus were invited to join in and network with alumni.
Other happenings on the Quad included a food truck, a bounce house and an unexpected repainting of The Rock. After the original paint job for homecoming was covered over with paint representative of Alma, Albion students were quick to paint the rock back to its purple and gold colors.
Sporting events of the day included a women’s soccer game, which they won 2-1 against Trine, as well as the annual homecoming football game, played this year against Alma. Stands were packed with alumni, students, family and community members, all uniting to cheer on the Albion Britons. While the Brits lost, fans in the crowd cheered “We still love you” as the players left the field, showcasing their unity and school spirit.
The British Eighth marching band played at halftime, featuring their 2019 British Invasion show. Musical selections included “Elenor Rigby,” by the Beatles, “Your Song,” by Elton John and “Another Brick in the Wall,” by Pink Floyd. As always, British Eighth Alumni were invited to participate in one of the songs, which was “Hey Jude,” by the Beatles this year.
Fine, picturesque review.