Recapping Homecoming 100
Howard’s homecoming has boasted the most-searched homecoming according to Google. During Homecoming 100, Metro, the Washington-area transit agency, declared that Saturday as having the highest ridership on record for the Shaw-Howard University subway station. The centennial Homecoming may very well be the most-talked about, -liked and -followed homecoming ever. Relive the moments from these Homecoming alumni events.
Bison Madness — Hailed as part of the launch to Homecoming week, Bison Madness marks the advent of Howard’s basketball season. Timing of the festive pep rally coincides with Homecoming and is celebrated as such. Lines began forming outside of Burr Gymnasium more than two hours before the event. The packed house swayed to the sounds of DJ Jae Murphy, Howard’s Showtime Marching Band and surprise headliner, rapper Skilla Baby. But the evening’s highlights were introductions of the 2024-25 men’s and women’s basketball teams and coaching staff.
Lavender Reception — Hours before the event, word spread on social media that Big Freedia would perform at the annual Lavender Reception fundraiser, which supports and advocates for Howard’s LGBTQ+ community. Big Freedia, decked in lavender, “brought the house” down with Beyonce’s “Break My Soul” and other tunes while backed by her popular dancers. “Best live performance in a long time,” one guest commented. Part of the Back the Yard 2024 Homecoming Giving Challenge, the Lavender Reception raised more than $1,000 to support students.
View Lavender Reception photos.
Happy Hour & Welcome Reception — Many alumni began their weekend at the welcome reception held in the newest facility on campus: The Oliver, DAR’s new home, which is adjacent to the School of Business. As the line wound down Georgia Avenue, guests waited in anticipation of experiencing the new mixed-use building and a great start to Homecoming weekend. Making a special appearance was Head Football Coach Larry Scott who thanked alumni for their unwavering support and rallied the crowd in advance of the matchup between the Bison and Tennessee State University Tigers, who won 27–14.
View Happy Hour & Welcome Reception photos.
Yardfest 1 & 2 — More than 50,000 people descended on the Yard to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Howard’s Homecoming over two days. The famed stage that has hosted A-listers for decades featured DJ D-Nice, DJ Quicksilva, Ruff Endz, Carl Thomas and LeToya Luckett belting out new- and old-school tunes. The family-friendly atmosphere featured a variety of food trucks and merch tents, while alumni hung out in the huge alumni tent for great food, networking and engagement.
“I am so proud to be an alum of this esteemed institution! This year’s event was masterfully planned and executed. I loved it! There was a warmth towards alumni and our inclusion was carefully curated! We felt it! We saw it!,” said Clover Baker-Brown (’95, B.A.).
View Yardfest 1 & 2 photos.
Alumni VIP Day Party—Alumni, trustees and friends were treated to a grand experience as they enjoyed music, food and dance in the Blackburn Center ballroom and terrace overlooking the Yard. Guests enjoyed the relaxed, lounge-like atmosphere, as artists Sunshine Anderson and DJ D-Nice stopped by to engage guests. Through an elevated experience, alumni and friends connected in gaiety just before kickoff. A new event this year, the VIP Day Party is sure to continue for years to come.
Wine Down Mixer — The sold-out reception hosted in the Blackburn Center ballroom and terrace was the ideal venue to continue the Homecoming 100 celebration following the football game and Yardfest 2. Even those hanging out on the Yard were grooving to the sounds that permeated the air from the terrace as renowned percussionist and alumna DJ Queen Cora rocked the house. Every slide dance and more were performed on the floor as alumni and friends transitioned to a mellow evening with great food, fun and camaraderie.
View Wine Down Mixer photos.
Alumni Brunches — The Alumni Jazz Brunch, a homecoming staple for many years, featured live jazz music that paid tribute to the late Frankie Beverly. The annual fundraiser held in Blackburn provides steadfast support for student scholarships. The Young Alumni Brunch, in its second year, was held at Barcode where young alumni engaged each other in support of Howard. Both brunches were held on Sunday, capping an extraordinary and historic Homecoming weekend.
View Young Alumni Brunch photos.