Alumni return to campus to reconnect and celebrate Big Blue
by Kendall Trump, Class of 2013
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Buildings across Millikin’s campus featured a surplus of excited visitors and blue decorations as the University celebrated their 2022 Homecoming weekend from October 7-9.
Alumni, friends and family of Millikin traveled to Decatur for the weekend to reconnect with friends, meet future alumni and celebrate being Big Blue.
The celebration weekend featured an array of programming for all Homecoming attendees. Alumni enjoyed long-time traditions such as Chalk the Walk and the Homecoming football game. Though the Big Blue football team left Frank M. Lindsay Field with a loss against CCIW rival Augustana College on Saturday, Oct. 8, Millikin University spirit was alive and well across campus. Popular Homecoming Week programming for current students included a hypnotist, zipline and the Multicultural Greek Council Step Show. Students representing campus organizations including Pipe Dreams Studio Theatre, BURST, Greek chapters and more used their artistic talents to decorate the area in front of University Commons with colorful sidewalk chalk creations.
Throughout the weekend, Millikin University hosted ceremonies to present distinguished individuals with annual alumni awards, and to welcome accomplished alumni athletes into the Athletic Hall of Fame.
Alumni Awards
Young Alumnus Award: Philip Lopez, Class of 2016
Loyalty Award: Karen Maurer Krows, Class of 1968
Merit Award: Dr. Thomas Mahoney, Class of 1990
Merit-Loyalty Award: Phillip Blankenburg, Class of 1962
Faculty/Staff Recognition Award: Professor Denise Myers
Alumnus of the Year: Dr. C. Kimm Hollis, Class of 1972
Alumni also participated in a reunion brunch event, class photos, concerts and open houses for several Millikin clubs and organizations. Additionally, the 50 Year Club Brunch welcomed those alumni celebrating their 50th class reunion or greater, with a special welcome to the newly eligible Class of 1972.
Another highlight of Millikin’s Homecoming Weekend was introducing alumni to the newest place to pick up Millikin gear, the Big Blue Campus Store. The store featured a limited edition 2022 Homecoming collection to celebrate the occasion.
Everyone I know will long remember this Homecoming. I know I certainly will.