Kent State University celebrated its annual Homecoming on the Kent Campus this past weekend, with a resounding display of Golden Flashes spirit. The event brought together a diverse community, including alumni, students, parents, employees and community members. The Homecoming festivities culminated in the grand Homecoming Parade and an exciting football game on Saturday, Oct. 21, continuing a cherished tradition.
This year's Homecoming was particularly special, as Kent State commemorated 50 years of excellence in global education with the theme "It's a Flash World." In 1972, Kent State sent its first education-abroad group to Florence, Italy, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in international education. To honor these early members of the global Kent State community, students from the inaugural education-abroad class served as the Grand Marshals of this year's Homecoming Parade.
Here's a brief rundown of some of the key events that made Homecoming 2023 truly memorable:
Grand Opening of the Aeronautics and Engineering Building Expansion: On Oct. 20, Kent State welcomed visitors to explore the expansion of the Aeronautics and Engineering Building, providing more than 40,000 square feet of additional space to support the college's growing student population.
Alumni Awards Ceremony: Also on Oct. 20, the prestigious Kent State Alumni Awards were presented to 10 outstanding recipients. These awards, sponsored by the Kent State Alumni Association, recognized Golden Flashes who have made exceptional contributions in their respective fields, communities and at the university through their exemplary leadership, character and dedication.
Homecoming Kickoff and Fireworks: The festivities continued with the Homecoming Kickoff at Hometown Bank Plaza on Friday night. The event featured a lively pep rally and spectacular fireworks display at 8 p.m., setting the stage for an exciting weekend.
Homecoming Parade: The Homecoming Parade on Oct. 21 captivated spectators as it made its way along Main Street in downtown Kent. The parade showcased vibrant floats, the Marching Golden Flashes, the Homecoming Court, university colleges and departments, cheerleaders, athletes, student organizations and local dignitaries. Those unable to attend in person could catch the parade livestream as well.
Kiss on the K: At noon on Oct. 21, Kent State couples embraced a cherished tradition by sharing a Kiss on the K at Risman Plaza, right in front of the Kent Student Center. The romantic rendezvous coincided with Sweetest Day, as well.
Flash Nation Tailgate and Homecoming Football Game: Before the Homecoming football game at 3:30 p.m., fans gathered at Dix Stadium for the Flash Nation Tailgate, which began at 1:30 p.m. This family-friendly event featured food, fun and festivities. The Homecoming football game saw the Kent State Golden Flashes facing off against the University at Buffalo Bulls, an East Division opponent in the Mid-American Conference. Fans were encouraged to don their gold attire, and the Homecoming Court was celebrated, with the 2023 Homecoming Royalty being announced and crowned at halftime.
Alumni Chapter Tailgates and Events: Throughout the day, various alumni chapters hosted tailgates open to all. Additionally, the Black Alumni Chapter organized a series of events from Oct. 19-22, offering a diverse range of activities for alumni to participate in.
Kent State's Homecoming was a resounding success, celebrating the university’s rich history and community spirit, as well as its bright future in global education.
For more information on Homecoming 2023, visit www.kent.edu/homecoming.