Dalton State College will bring a burst of Mardi Gras flair to Downtown Dalton during its annual homecoming celebration, returning Friday, Feb. 20, and Saturday, Feb. 21, featuring a lineup of community‑wide events. The weekend will also celebrate Roadrunner achievements with the second annual Dalton State Alumni Awards Reception.
“We really enjoy hosting Homecoming events in the community because it gives everyone a chance to celebrate alongside our students and alumni,” Heather Williams, director of student engagement and belonging, said. “Bringing students, alumni, local businesses and the broader community together reflects the pride in partnership that make this region special.”
The celebration will begin in Downtown Dalton on Friday, Feb. 20, with Dalton State’s annual homecoming parade at 5:30 p.m. The pep rally will begin at Burr Performing Arts Park immediately after the parade concludes. Guests may arrive at Burr Park beginning at 5 p.m. for lawn activities and a live DJ.
Parade floats will stage at First Baptist Church before taking a left onto Waugh Street and proceeding to the parade route. The route will travel east on Waugh, continue past the bridge, turn south onto Hamilton Street, and end with a left into the Burr Park parking area, where floats will unload.
“Once the parade has concluded, guests are encouraged to pick up parade goodies at the distribution tent before moving closer to the stage for the pep rally,” Williams said.
Homecoming weekend festivities continue Saturday, Feb. 21, with the Dalton State men’s basketball game against Thomas University and the crowning of Homecoming royalty during halftime. Tipoff is at 2 p.m.
Faculty, staff and students receive free general admission with their Dalton State Roadrunner IDs. Tickets are available for sale at www.dsroadrunners.com
The alumni awards reception will be held on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on the Dalton State campus in Brown Hall, Room 105.
“This event celebrates the remarkable achievements and contributions of our graduates,” Sam Dindoffer, director of government and alumni relations, said. “We encourage all alumni to attend the reception and join us in celebrating this year’s awards recipients.”
Three alumni awards will be presented this year:
- The DJC Legacy Award will be given to a graduate of Dalton Junior College who has demonstrated dedication to the institution.
- The Distinguished Alumni Award will recognize a graduate who has demonstrated outstanding achievements in their career and contributions to society.
- The Young Alumni Service Award will honor a graduate of the past 10 years who has made exceptional contributions to the institution and community through volunteer work or professional endeavors.
All Dalton State College and Dalton Junior College alumni are welcome. RSVP is required. Alumni may reserve their seats by emailing [email protected].
