West Central Michigan News

Central Michigan University is set to mark a milestone this Saturday with the 100th anniversary of its Homecoming event. The celebration coincides with a football game against Ohio, scheduled for 4 p.m. ET at Kelly/Shorts Stadium in Mount Pleasant.

Homecoming has been an integral part of Central Michigan's campus culture since it was first celebrated in 1924. It has provided alumni the opportunity to reconnect with their alma mater and each other while participating in various festivities. "Since 1924, when Central Michigan celebrated its first Homecoming, thousands of alumni have returned to campus for a weekend of celebration that allowed them to renew ties with old friends, revisit past haunts, see what's new on campus, and of course, cheer on the team," according to university officials.

The Clarke Historical Library is contributing to this year's centennial celebration by organizing a special exhibit showcasing the history of Homecoming at Central Michigan.

Central Michigan's football team boasts a strong record during past Homecomings, winning 61 out of 95 games played. Notably absent were games during World War II from 1943-1945 and in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A highlight from their Homecoming history includes a notable victory over Northern Illinois in 1946 by a margin of 51 points.

The tradition began thanks to Bourke "Dutch" Lodwyk who introduced the concept after witnessing it at Albion College. His enthusiasm led to the establishment of Central's first Homecoming event on November 22, 1924.

Over the years, Homecoming has evolved significantly. Pre-World War II celebrations focused heavily on community spirit and featured parades and dances. Post-war celebrations became more elaborate with floats and pageantry as central elements. However, the tradition faced challenges during the cultural shifts of the '60s and '70s but was eventually revitalized by focusing more on alumni participation.

Today's celebrations continue this focus while incorporating modern elements such as tailgate parties and updated representations like "Gold Ambassadors" replacing traditional royalty titles.

As Central Michigan University celebrates its centennial Homecoming, it continues to serve as an important event that unites students, alumni, faculty, and staff across generations.