Brandon University’s much-anticipated annual Homecoming celebrations are earlier this year, taking advantage of better weather for more outdoor activities and the amazing back-to-school energy.
Homecoming will be held Thursday, Sept. 14 through Sunday, Sept. 17, with activities for alumni of all ages, and the entire community invited to join.
One of the biggest marquee events is the presentation of the annual Brandon University Alumni Association Awards, which will take place Saturday evening at an evening soirée and dinner. This is one of the few events that requires a ticket, and you can register at BrandonU.ca/Homecoming.
“The award winners are always inspiring, and the meal is going to be incredible as well, but it’s really about the connections and conversation at each table,” said BU Advancement Officer Nick Brown, who is helping coordinate Homecoming. “For many alumni, our soirée is the weekend’s can’t-miss highlight.”
New this year is the addition of the Terry Fox Run, which will be held starting at the BU campus on Sunday morning, and a traditional Langar meal provided by the Sikh community of Brandon on Friday at noon. The main objective of Langar is to establish oneness and equality in humankind and the freshly cooked vegetarian meal is served free of charge to anyone regardless of religion, caste, gender, social status or ethnicity.
There are many other events through the weekend as well — with something for just about everyone.
“One of my personal favourites is the trivia challenge, which I’m hosting Friday evening in Bailey’s, starting at 6 p.m. Show up with a team or assemble one when you arrive and you can challenge for the Stanley Knowles Cup,” Brown said. “Then, on Saturday, I’ll be spending most of my afternoon gaming at the PrairieCon Games Day or with the BU Gaming Association gaming in the student lounge.”
Renowned ag thinker and futurist Robert Saik will be a big Homecoming draw for many people. Saik will be giving a talk Saturday afternoon focused on the disruptions from technology, climate changes, and global crises that are poised to upend agriculture and all that surrounds it.
“Whether you grow food or just eat it, Robert Saik will deliver thought-provoking insights for everyone to take home and chew over,” said Carla Eisler, BU’s Director of Advancement and Alumni Affairs. “What’s best is that he promises an optimistic talk that can help all of Westman prepare to embrace these challenges!”
Homecoming kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 14, with a reception in the Tommy McLeod Curve Gallery at the John E. Robbins Library, showcasing 100 years of psychiatric nursing in Manitoba. Later that evening, the Homecoming concert will be held in the Lorne Watson Recital Hall.
Friday starts with the Langar meal at noon, followed by an afternoon beer gardens for casual socializing, an alumni book fair, and then trivia night followed by a decades social, both held in Bailey’s, the new student café in the Knowles-Douglas Student Union Centre.
Saturday kicks off with a breakfast at Bailey’s, fun and games all afternoon, plus bannock and tea at the Turtle Fire ceremonial fire pit before Robert Saik’s public talk and the evening soirée and awards presentations.
On Sunday morning, both the Terry Fox Run and traditional farewell brunch will be held, and the final official Homecoming events being the men’s and women’s Bobcats soccer matches on Sunday afternoon.
The campus is open all weekend long for self-guided tours, and guided tours will be available on Saturday afternoon as well. The BU book store will be open regular hours on Thursday and Friday, and is also opening up Saturday afternoon to offer memorabilia.
“It’s a busy weekend, and while many alumni are also organizing special reunions, we’re throwing open our doors to everyone for Homecoming,” said Carla Eisler, BU’s Director of Advancement and Alumni Affairs. “Moving it earlier in the fall this year opens up new possibilities for enjoying our lovely campus, and we can’t wait to see you here!”
Most events are open for all to simply drop-in. For more information, or to buy a ticket to the awards soirée, visit BrandonU.ca/Homecoming.
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Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca.