The Belltower
Samford University
News
-
Sports
-
Arts
Snapshot
October 31, 2008
Samford Family Comes Home For Event-Packed Weekend
About the only way to take in everything at Samford University's Homecoming 2008 was to look down from the hot air balloon that gave hundreds of alumni and their families a bird's eye view of the busy campus. Virtually every corner of campus bustled with activity on a beautiful autumn day, Saturday, Oct. 25.
As the balloon entertained many in the Quad, other Homecoming attendees enjoyed the annual Live at the Library event with singer/songwriter Kate Campbell '83 and historian Wayne Flynt '61, and the health fair sponsored by McWhorter School of Pharmacy and CVS.
The annual Homecoming parade featured student floats, Miss Alabama, a kazoo band and alumni of the year Bennie Bumpers ‘63, Paula Smith Hovater ‘69 and Rod Hovater '67.
Graduates of 50 years ago or more gathered for their traditional "Golden Bulldog" brunch. Dozens of tents on the quadrangle and at a special tailgating area afforded gathering spots for other affinity groups and organizations.
Two groups enjoyed special reunions: A Cappella Choir alumni who came from near and far to honor retired music dean and choir director Dr. L. Gene Black, and 1971 national championship football team members who convened under shade trees near Seibert Stadium.
During halftime at Samford’s 28-10 victory over The Citadel, the university crowned the 2008 Homecoming queen, Emily Gettys, a senior nursing major from Alexander City. Billy Gunter, a senior music major from Pelham, was named Honor Escort.
Saturday's "Evening to Remember" featured performances by Samford instrumental and vocal groups, including the A Cappella alumni choir under the direction of Dr. Black.
Sunday's events included a worship service led by Samford professor Dr. Jim Barnette '83.
Singer Kate Campbell closed out the full weekend with a special Sunday evening concert of music from her latest recording, "Save the Day."
