Utica Looks to Celebrate Homecoming with Full Slate of Events

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Utica Looks to Celebrate Homecoming with Full Slate of Events

Throughout the weekend there will also be various dedication ceremonies to honor and recognize some of the University’s most generous philanthropists.

This Homecoming welcomes back Utica’s Carnival Under the Sky, which includes a midway, cotton candy, countless rides and much more for all ages. The carnival will be open on Friday from 7 to 10 p.m. and on Saturday from 3 to 7 p.m.

The football team will face the Hartwick Hawks at Gaetano Stadium at 1 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free for anyone bringing a non-perishable food item for Feed Our Vets. Prior to the football game, there will be a pre-game Tailgate Party. This will include many kid-friendly activities including face painting as well as food and beverages.

In addition to the carnival will be the Pioneer 5th Quarter Party, which incorporates many rides, activities and fair food.

One of the highlights is the 75th anniversary celebration of The Tangerine, Utica University’s student newspaper, in the Concourse at 7 p.m. Saturday.

Throughout the weekend there will also be various dedication ceremonies to honor and recognize some of the University’s most generous philanthropists, including the Lotis Howland track dedication in the Todd and Jenn Hutton Dome, as well as the John A. Donohue Sr. ’57 and Valerie F. Donohue Concourse dedication.

While Lotis Howland was not a Utica University alumna, she felt it was important to give back to the community she lived in for so long, so she established a trust fund to support various community organizations and charities upon her death, with Utica University receiving the largest sum. Her bequest is the largest single cash gift the University has received.

The late John A. Donohue Sr. ’57 and his wife Valerie F. Donohue have consistently donated to the University for more than 20 years. Their donations, as well as the contributions from all other Loyal Pioneers, strengthens Utica’s ability to fulfill its mission and enrich the lives of its students. Additionally, Valerie has pledged to donate in the future to carry on the University’s mission.

In addition to these dedications there will be various alumni receptions, reunion dinners, games and more. For the full schedule and details on registration, visit utica.edu/homecoming.

- written by Leah Easton ‘24 and Victoria DeLuca ‘24