Howard faces Morehouse in big game
Homecoming 2026 is October 11–18, and this year’s theme is “Wildest Dreams,” designed to celebrate how our legacies surpass our ancestors' wildest dreams. Plan your itinerary with our full list of events!
Beyond the Yard: Alumni and Donor Newsletter
September 2026 Issue
Explore the latest Alumni + Donor Newsletter to see the latest alumni highlights and more.
Read nowThis Issue’s Features
Hilltop Highlights
159th Opening Convocation launches 2026
Howard University formally begins the academic year with the traditional Opening Convocation, at Cramton Auditorium on Friday, September 18. This year’s speakers represent the faculty and staff. Watch ceremony here.
Battle of the Real HU: Showdown is coming!
The big game returns to Audi Field for its sixth year, Saturday, October 3 at 3 p.m. Support our Bison football team as they take on the Hampton University Pirates in DC. Be part of the celebration, connect with fellow alumni and rep the TRUE HU! Register here for the alumni pregame reception. Purchase game tickets now.
Alumni Spotlight
Ian Wheeler comes back Bison Strong
Ian Wheeler (’23, B.S.) has made a tremendous comeback after tearing his ACL during a 2024 Chicago Bears’ preseason game. With a combination of rehab and determination, Wheeler returned to the NFL this year with force. During a Buffalo Bills preseason game, he came back swinging, leading the team in rushing yards and securing a touchdown.
Giving
Countdown to Divine Nine Alumni Brunch
Homecoming 2026 would not be complete without the fourth annual Divine Nine Alumni Brunch, Friday, October 16, at the Blackburn Student Center Ballroom. Last year, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., claimed the fundraising trophy. Who will hold bragging rights this year? Mark your calendar and purchase tickets now for what has become one of the fastest-growing and most popular Homecoming events. Alumni return to The Mecca and compete to raise funds for student scholarships in the Fourth Annual Divine 9 Homecoming Fundraising Brunch Challenge.
Athletic Spotlight
Upcoming Events
October 3 —
- Margaret E. Anderson–GTGC 5K Breast Cancer Walk to Support Howard University Cancer Center, Washington, D.C.
- Battle of the Real HU, Hampton vs. Howard, Audi Field, Washington, D.C.
October 10 —
- Battle at the Burr, Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving, Burr Gymnasium
- Community Day of Service, various locations, Washington, D.C.
October 11–18 — Alumni Homecoming Events | Full Slate of Homecoming Events | Register for Homecoming Events
October 12 — Indigenous Peoples and Mental Health Day, UNIVERSITY CLOSED
