Ft Wayne Times

Homecoming 2023 sets positive tone for future ‘Quality of Place’ experiences

Over the course of six days last week, Mastodons from the past and present—and maybe even the future—took part in a reimagined Homecoming observance that’s already serving as a springboard for 2024. Featuring a wide range of activities, events, and competitions, “Blizzard of Dons” blanketed the Purdue University Fort Wayne campus with laughs, stories, and plenty of school spirit. At the center of it all was the desire to build a shared sense of belonging among students, faculty, staff, and alums. Consistent with PFW’s Quality of Place pillar of its strategic plan, this new take on Homecoming was uniquely PFW and indicative of a growing emphasis on highlighting the way positive actions and experiences enhance academic achievement and personal growth. 

Rec Day Rodeo on Tuesday will be remembered for its white cowboy hats and a poky mechanical bull that helped greenhorns ease their way into the sport. Dodgeball, theatre performances, wonderful sounds delivered by students from the School of Music, and plenty of food energized the bodies and minds of hundreds of Dons who joined in the fun. 

Five games that made up a full schedule of Mastodon sports were highlighted by the week’s main event on Friday at Memorial Coliseum, a men’s basketball game versus Northern Kentucky, which was bookended by the festive Homecoming Celebration before tipoff and a traditional dance back on the main campus later that night.

Alums got their chance to reconnect on campus on Saturday, and ideas are already being shared to make Homecoming bigger and better next year.

As with all university successes, it’s the people who pave the way for great memories that will last a lifetime. Blizzard of Dons may be finished, but Mastodon pride is frozen in our hearts. Thanks to everyone who made this year's Homecoming one to remember. Catch a few of the best moments from a cool week.

Original source can be found here.