October 18, 2024/midnight
Erie, Pa — Gannon University celebrated its annual Homecoming and Family Weekend, which lasted from October 3 to October 6. The event brought together the Erie community and Knights with several exciting activities.
Over 1,000 participants from Gannon University and Villa Maria College made the 2024 Homecoming a major success. The Erie campus has experienced four days packed with festivities, including Knight Nation golf outings, the annual Heritage Society Luncheon, tailgating, and more.
“The Homecoming weekend is a significant Gannon tradition. The event offers a chance for Gannon students and alumni to reunite and enjoy all the fun, especially the Tailgate and Homecoming football game,” said Khoi Huynh, a Gannon’s Student Government Association member. “These activities show a strong connection between Gannon and the student body, as well as the alumni while promoting a friendly and welcoming environment.”
Festivities kicked off on Thursday, Oct. 3, with the Orlando Biomedical Ethics and Catholic Social Teaching Lecture and concluded on Sunday, Oct. 6, with the traditional Sunday Mass and a warming brunch with Gannon’s president, Dr. Walter Iwanenko Ph.D. Highlights included the Knight Nation Golf Outing, Heritage Society Luncheon, Inspiration for the Next Generation (ING), Class of ’74 Reunion, and concluded with the Homecoming Block Party featuring the Breeze band.
On Saturday, the Golden Knights football team hosted a game at McConnell Family Stadium and earned their first football win of the year against Seton Hill. Prior to the game, a family tailgate was held at the Recreation and Wellness Center from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
In the following evening, the Golden Knights soccer team competed at 6:30 p.m. against Lock Haven, adding excitement by defeating them 7–0. Additionally, a meeting was held at Fly Mouth Tavern from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. Alumni events on Sunday included an Alumni and Friends Mass at 10 a.m. at Mary, Seat of Wisdom Chapel. The Homecoming Weekend concluded with a brunch with President Walter Iwanenko, Ph.D., in the Yehl Alumni Ballroom from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
While the Homecoming has just recently ended, many are looking forward to next year as the university celebrates its centennial. Homecoming next year is currently scheduled for September 11–14.
“The upcoming homecoming will be super special as it will commemorate 100 years since Gannon University was established in 1925. This landmark highlights the constant improvement of Gannon University, distinguishing that many senior alumni have successful careers indifferent fields,” Huynh said.
