ENMU kicks off homecoming week

“Under the Big Top” is the theme for this year’s Eastern New Mexico University homecoming, set to kickoff on Monday.

This will be the 68th year of homecoming at ENMU, said Janice Cowen, alumni affairs coordinator.

Among Friday’s activities will be the dedication of the new KENW Broadcast Center as well as the Alumni Choir Reunion and a 50th class reunion, Cowen said.

Highlighting the homecoming festivities will be Saturday’s parade and football game, according to Cowen.

The public is invited to Friday night’s bonfire, she said. “This event builds anticipation and excitement for the game the next day,” she said.

ENMU Foundation and ENMU Alumni Association recipients will be honored at a breakfast on Saturday morning. After the breakfast, they will be escorted to the parade, said Cowen.

The parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. at East First and South Abilene.

A new award will be handed out this year for the most outstanding community parade entry, Cowen said. “The community supports the efforts of ENMU, and we wanted to acknowledge that effort,” she said.

Cowen and her staff start planning for the homecoming activities in March, she said.

“It takes a lot of energy and a lot of time,” said Cowen, adding that support from ENMU and the community are a big help in putting together the events, which she said bring many people back to town.

Several other activities will follow after the parade, according to the schedule of events.

“Homecoming is a wonderful event. Our current students and alumni gather to celebrate what makes Eastern a strong school,” said ENMU President Steven Gamble. “(There’s) a lot of tradition at ENMU, and this weekend it will be on display.”