First Alumni Block Party draws hundreds at Homecoming

October 29, 2024

Hundreds of alumni, family members and friends congregated on Oct. 26 outside the Cornelia Campbell Alumni House to kick off their Homecoming with the first annual Alumni Block Party.

The party was created by the Alumni Association to meaningfully lengthen an already festive day on the Campbell calendar; it offered fun and activities for all ages. The highlights included food trucks, a house band (Bantum Rooster), live camels, department reunions, caricature art, inflatables and much more.

Though Alumni Block Party was launched this year, the Campbell community embraced it as a Campbell staple. Featured guests included President J. Bradley Creed, head football coach Braxton Harris and Campbell's spirit squad (cheer and dance, Gaylord and Gladys).

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"The Alumni Block Party was about creating an event that honored the tradition of alumni coming 'home' to Campbell and The Creek at Homecoming, while introducing new elements to make it inclusive and memorable for all attendees," said April Ganong, Director of Alumni Engagement.

"The involvement of prominent figures like Coach Harris and President Creed provided a sense of continuity and support. Their presence underscored the importance of the event and encouraged participation. This blend of the new with the familiar helped it resonate with attendees and feel like a natural extension of Homecoming."

Various groups and departments also brought a presence, with tents designated for the Lundy-Fetterman School of Business, Divinity School, Student Government Association, Kivett Loyalty Society, Golden Club and more.

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Samantha Regner, '17, spotted at the Business tent, remarked that the space adjacent to the Cornelia Campbell Alumni House was ideal for reunions.

"Attending the Alumni Block Party brought back wonderful memories of college," she said. "It was so much fun reconnecting with classmates and catching up with friends!"

Ganong said initial feedback from alumni on the new tradition has been nearly all positive, and she envisions Alumni Block Party settling in as a Homecoming fixture throughout the years.

"The enthusiastic participation and support from the Campbell community during this inaugural event, gives me confidence that the Alumni Block Party can become a cornerstone of Campbell Homecoming, creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds within the Campbell family," she said.

"Campbell has a tight-knit community where students, alumni, faculty, and staff share a deep connection and pride in their school. This strong sense of belonging made it easy for everyone to come together and celebrate."

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