University News

WNE Welcomes Alumni to Campus for Homecoming 2022

Published: October 14, 2022 | Categories: All News
Students and alumni in stands with WNE t-shirts

Western New England University is pleased to welcome alumni back to campus for Homecoming Weekend Friday and Saturday, October 21-22. The following events are planned for the weekend:

Friday, October 21

5:30 p.m. Downes Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony – (Twin Hills CC)
Emily Savino '13 (Women's Basketball), Erin Whitcomb '06 (Softball), Eric Hedberg '14 (Men's Golf), and Bryce Brown '12 (Football) will be inducted into the Western New England University Downes Athletic Hall of Fame. To learn about the inductee’s accomplishments visit Western New England Athletics Reveals 2022 Downes Hall of Fame Class.

Saturday, October 22

Golden Bear Boulevard Festivities (WNE Pine Grove)
Kick off Homecoming Weekend festivities by checking in at Homecoming Registration, located at the entrance to Golden Bear Boulevard. Golden Bear Boulevard is the best place to meet up with friends, connect with faculty and staff, enjoy delicious treats from a wide variety of food trucks, while getting ready to cheer on the Golden Bear athletic teams.

Golden Moments Photo Challenge
Find designated locations around campus, snap photos, and submit then to be entered to win prizes. The Golden Moments Photo Challenge is that simple. See contest guidelines and instructions.

10:00 a.m. Billy Evans '02 Memorial Bench Dedication (WNE Public Safety Garden)
The WNE community is invited to honor the life and legacy of Billy Evans at a special memorial dedication event in celebration of the impact Billy made on campus, in the community, and through his service to our country. The event will feature the dedication of the Billy Evans memorial bench and garden, a salute by the WNE Student Patrol Unit, music by the Golden Bear Band, and special remarks from alumni and members of the campus community.

11:00 a.m. Class of 1987 35th Reunion
Alumni from the Class of 1987 are invited to return to campus for a 35th Reunion social during Homecoming Weekend. Reconnect with friends and classmates, reminisce and see what’s changed.

11:00 a.m. Class of 2021 Brunch & Brew
The undergraduate Class of 2021 will gather at Paddy's to celebrate their 1-Year Reunion, and reconnect with your friends and classmates at this informal Brunch & Brew.

3:00 p.m. Class of 2011 11th Reunion
The Class of 2011 is celebrating their 11th Reunion with a social at Paddy's Irish Pub during Homecoming Weekend! After a fun-filled day of traditional Homecoming festivities, gather on the covered patio with friends and classmates to relive favorite memories find out what's new.

5:00 p.m. U&ME Mural Unveiling and Dinner Dance
Celebrate Homecoming with the Office of Cultural Education & Inclusion. Join in for the unveiling of a mural commissioned for the Cultural Center. The evening continues as we celebrate the history of the Cultural Center, United & Mutually Equal, and recognize the retirement of Dean Yvonne Bogle, whose commitment and vision have paved the way for so many students and alumni. Then enjoy good food, good friends, and dancing. 

To view the schedule of events and to register visit alumni.wne.edu/homecoming.

For more information contact Kristina Oleksak, Sr. Associate Director at kristina.oleksak@wne.edu.