Homecoming is one of Guilford College’s biggest events of the year, giving students a full week to prepare for a weekend packed with festivities and school spirit.

My homecoming fun officially began at the “Stuff a Plush” event in Founders Lobby on Sept. 26. Students chose from several stuffed bears, received a bag of stuffing and even got a small Guilford College T-shirt so their new plush friends could show Quaker pride too.

Senior Elizabeth Martinez said she loved the event.

“I always like whenever they have events that give away free stuff,” she said. “It’s cute stuff you would hold onto for a while. Who wouldn’t want to keep a teddy bear for a long time?”

Along with making memories, homecoming also celebrates school pride — something our Guilford cheerleaders, who performed in the lobby during the event, know a lot about. The enthusiastic squad helped kick off the weekend by encouraging students to show spirit and attend Saturday’s football game.

Saturday — when most of the excitement takes place — was packed with events hosted by the Campus Activities Board (CAB).

Before the game, CAB organized the Homecoming tailgate, featuring free food trucks such as Pelican’s SnoBalls and Astro Dogs, both of which were crowd favorites.

Guilford senior Rebecca Pierre, who shared my enthusiasm for the Korean corn dogs, said she was glad she took part in the festivities.
“I’m happy that I took advantage of something that I never get to do outside of being here at school,” she said.

Pierre also emphasized the importance of offering accessible events for students.

“Some people may not have the money to go out and buy those corn dogs,” she said.

Another favorite tradition for many students is the free photo booth — a chance to take pictures with friends and capture memories that will last long after graduation.

Seeing fellow students and meeting alumni reminds us that the Guilford community extends far beyond our four years on campus.
“It’s refreshing to see so many generations of people come back to a place that they want to be,” Pierre said.

Whether attending the football game, cheering at the BSU’s line dance competition or grabbing food from the trucks, homecoming remains a highlight of my college experience.

For me, the weekend has always been about spending time with the people I care about — almost like a second Family Weekend. Martinez and I both agreed that homecoming embodies the Guilford spirit of connection.

“I like seeing the past and present Guilford students — the community having conversations with current members,” she said. “There’s still that connection there.”

In a message sent after homecoming, Guilford College President Jean Parvin Bordewich reflected on the weekend’s success.

“Homecoming and Family Weekend was a true reminder of the power of the Guilford community,” Bordewich wrote. “Together we created something special that will be remembered fondly for years to come.”

Homecoming weekend is more than just a football game or free food — it’s about coming together and sharing the Quaker tradition of community that connects generations of Guilford students.

It’s a tradition that will continue for years to come.