The University of Tennessee at Martin will celebrate Homecoming Oct. 26-31 with the theme “A Haunted UTM Homecoming,” bringing students, alumni, families and Martin residents together for a week of campus traditions, Halloween festivities and Skyhawk spirit.
Hosted by the university and the Office of Alumni Relations, this year’s celebration will feature competitions, entertainment, alumni gatherings and the annual Homecoming football game against Eastern Illinois University on Oct. 31.
For Evani Parker, a sophomore social work major, Homecoming is an opportunity for students and alumni to reconnect while celebrating their shared connection to the university.
“Homecoming to me means that everyone, both new and old, near and far, can come back home to UT Martin and celebrate,” Parker said. “I think it’s a joyful time for everyone to come together.”
Parker plans to represent the Student Alumni Council by tabling during the celebration. She is especially looking forward to Quad City because it offers opportunities to meet people, explore organizations and connect with other members of the campus community.
This year’s Halloween-inspired theme has added to her excitement.
“I think this year’s theme is great! It’s perfect for the Halloween season, and I think it will encourage more people to come out because it’s almost like a two-for-one celebration,” Parker said.
Homecoming activities begin Monday, Oct. 26, with a banner competition display at Paul Meek Library and a rope pull competition at Pacer Pond. Throughout the week, students can participate in events including a students-only comedy show, the Flight Crew Lip Sync Competition, the Pyramid and Pep Rally Competition and the NPHC Homecoming Step Show.
UT Martin alumna Sukita Johnson of Memphis, Tennessee, thinks Homecoming offers a chance to return to campus and revisit the experiences that made her college years memorable.
“Coming back to UT Martin for Homecoming gives me a chance to reconnect with the university, see familiar faces and remember the experiences that made my time here special,” said Johnson.
Johnson said spending time with friends, attending campus events and supporting the Skyhawks were among her favorite college memories. She encourages current students to get involved and build relationships while they have the opportunity.
“College goes by quickly, so it is important to make memories, build relationships and participate in campus traditions,” Johnson said.
The celebration also extends beyond the university, bringing activity to the Martin community. Resident Aniya Stokes said Homecoming creates opportunities for locals to enjoy the festivities while supporting area businesses.
“UT Martin’s Homecoming brings a lot of excitement to Martin,” Stokes said. “The tailgating, food, music and people coming together make the community feel alive.”
Stokes said the Halloween theme could encourage more residents to participate and suggested that future celebrations include more community tailgating opportunities, family-friendly activities and live entertainment.
Homecoming game day festivities begin Saturday morning on Oct. 31 with the 20th annual UTM Football Alumni Tailgate at 10 a.m. at Hardy Graham Stadium. The Homecoming brunch will follow from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Boling University Center before the Skyhawks face Eastern Illinois University at 2 p.m. The UTM Alumni Softball Game is scheduled for 3 p.m. at the Bettye Giles Softball Field, followed by the NPHC Homecoming Step Show at 7 p.m. at the Kathleen and Tom Elam Center and BAC After Dark: The Masquerade Experience at 9 p.m. at Ava Manor in Martin.
The week-long celebration will conclude with a Homecoming brunch on Sunday, Nov. 1, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Boling University Center.
With activities planned for students, alumni and local residents, “A Haunted UTM Homecoming” will celebrate Skyhawk traditions while giving the university community opportunities to reconnect and create new memories.
