By Parker Gordon / Staff Writer

Every year, Missouri Valley College’s Homecoming Week gives students a chance to break out of the usual school routines, celebrate together, and showcase school spirit. With dress-up days, themed activities, and the culminating home football game, Homecoming is a tradition that brings excitement and connection to campus.

This year, festivities began on October 21 with PJ Day, giving students a relaxed start to the week. Other dress-up themes followed, including “Represent Your Country,” “Represent Your Sport,” “Throwback Thursday,” and “Class Color Day” on Friday. Students could also enjoy activities such as VR Night, a s’mores night, and a chalk art competition, all leading up to the highly anticipated football game on Saturday afternoon.

Freshman Azelea Shelton shared her enthusiasm, saying, “I love Homecoming Week because it reminds me of back home!” When asked about her favorite dress-up day, she responded, “PJ Day, because I went to sleep, then when I woke up, I could just go to class.”

Sophomore Carter McCourt offered a more balanced view. “It’s something I anticipate heavily,” he noted, “not necessarily in a positive or negative way. There are good things about Homecoming Week and stressful things, but I’m usually able to balance my responsibilities.” McCourt said he enjoys “Rep Your Country Day and PJ Day” the most, and if he could add a theme, it would be “Gender Bender Day.”

James Rowlett, Director of Student Activities, explained the planning behind this year’s events. “This year, I leaned heavily on SGA to come up with some activities,” he said. “This allows them to connect with students more and show that they’re here to support them and want them to have a great experience.” Rowlett emphasized the goal of inclusivity, explaining that themes like “Rep Your Country Day” let students showcase their backgrounds and discover new things about their classmates.

When asked about his favorite event, Rowlett chose two: “Axe throwing and the Homecoming parade. Those always bring a great turnout and are just fun for everyone.”

Homecoming Week may only last a few days, but for many at Missouri Valley College, it’s a time to forge connections and celebrate the community they share.