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MILLIGAN — Milligan University is gearing up to host its annual Homecoming celebration, inviting alumni and friends to campus on October 27-28 for a weekend filled with festivities. While many events are tailored for alumni, there are numerous opportunities for the general public to partake in the merriment. The two-day extravaganza will feature a vibrant parade, a charity 5K run/walk, a concert, theater productions, enlightening lectures, and exhilarating athletic competitions.

One standout event during this year’s Homecoming is the special appreciation reception planned for President and Mrs. Greer on Saturday, October 28, at 3 p.m. in the Gregory Center Lobby. This reception will serve as a tribute to their dedicated service to Milligan as President Greer prepares to retire as the university’s 15th president by the end of the 2024 academic year. He will transition to the role of chancellor.

Rhajon Smith, vice president for institutional advancement, described Homecoming as a unique opportunity for students, alumni, and their families to reunite, reminisce, and create new memories in Milligan’s scenic campus. It’s a time-honored tradition that brings the Milligan community together.

Friday evening’s festivities include the “Celebrate Milligan” dinner, where several esteemed alumni and friends will be acknowledged for their contributions and achievements. The Distinguished Alumnus Award will be presented to Dale Clayton (’73). Corey (’96) and Ronda Vaught Paulson (’97) will receive the Professional Excellence Award, while the Athletics Hall of Fame inductees will include Rich Aubrey (’85), Eli Cramer (’24), and Sidney Burns Greatti (’11). Bill Gwaltney will be honored with the Spirit of Milligan Award.

Saturday morning will commence with the Associated Ladies for Milligan’s annual Buffalo 5K Run/2.5K Walk, generously sponsored by Workspace Interiors. Starting at 8 a.m. at Steve Lacy Fieldhouse, the race aims to benefit student scholarships.

For art enthusiasts, a photography exhibit by alumna Alys West (’20) titled “A Botanical Solarium: Following Years in Ukraine” will open at 11 a.m. with a reception at the Milligan Art Gallery in Derthick Hall. Inspired by her time in Ukraine, West’s exhibit captures her unique perspective on finding joy and beauty in the world created by God.

Two thought-provoking faculty lectures are on the agenda as well. At 11 a.m., Dr. David Campbell, professor of economics, will deliver “Milliganomics: A Tradition of Faith and Free Markets,” an exploration of the history of Milligan economists. Retired professors Drs. Lee (’69) and Pat Magness (’69) will share highlights from their 58 years at Milligan in their lecture, “Buffalo Bites: A Mountain of Memories,” at 2 p.m. Both lectures will take place at the McGlothlin-Street Theatre in the Gregory Center.

The Homecoming parade will kick off at 1:30 p.m. on Blowers Boulevard, leading into the festival on Derthick lawn, complete with kettle corn and inflatables for all ages.

The Milligan music department will host a family-friendly concert, “Celebrating the Music of Appalachia,” at 3:45 p.m. in Milligan’s Mary B. Martin Auditorium, located in Seeger Chapel. The concert will feature instrumental and vocal ensembles performing bluegrass, old-time, folk, and country songs.

For those who appreciate the performing arts, Milligan’s musical theater will stage “The Drowsy Chaperone” from October 26 to October 29. This musical comedy, a winner of five Tony Awards, will transport viewers back to the Roaring Twenties with its colorful cast and memorable songs. Tickets for the performances can be purchased in advance.

Please note that meal events, theater performances, and the walk/run are ticketed events, while the remaining events are free and open to the public. For a complete schedule of events and further information, visit milligan.edu/homecoming. Don’t miss out on this exciting weekend of celebration and togetherness at Milligan University.