Dalton State College is gearing up for its annual Homecoming celebration, featuring three days of exciting events open to the community from Thursday, Feb. 20 through Saturday, Feb. 22.
“With a packed schedule of activities leading up to coronation and the homecoming basketball game, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the Roadrunners showcase their school spirit and pride,” Heather Williams, director of student engagement and belonging at Dalton State. “Whether you’re a student, one of our alumni or a community member, there’s no better time to show your Roadrunner pride!”
Homecoming coronation will be Saturday, Feb. 22, during half time of the men’s basketball game in Bandy Gymnasium. The Roadrunners will tip-off against Life University at 2 p.m.
But the three-day long celebration kicks off Thursday, Feb. 20, with a trivia night at 5 p.m. in the Pope Student Center followed by a men’s basketball game against Point University at 7 p.m. in Bandy Gymnasium.
The celebration moves to Downtown Dalton on Friday, Feb. 21, with the Dalton State parade and pep rally. The parade will begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by the pep rally at 6 p.m. at Burr Performing Arts Park.
The parade will begin at the Dalton First Baptist Church parking lot at 311 N. Thornton Ave. before heading onto West Waugh Street. From there, the parade route has a right turn onto Hamilton Street and will end at the parking lot next to Burr Performing Arts Park.
“Various community partners will be set up at Burr Park with interactive games and giveaways, beginning at 5 p.m.,” Williams said. “Attendees who wish to stay close to Burr Park can walk to the intersection of King and Crawford to catch the parade then head back to Burr Park for the pep rally where we will have a great line up of performances and speakers.”
The pep rally will include a live DJ, performances by the Dalton State cheer team and an appearance by Rage, the college’s mascot. Speakers will include Dalton State President Jon Fuchko; Kevin Henry, Dalton State senior and basketball player; and Alex Ireland, men’s basketball coach.
“We are excited to welcome home all of our incredible alumni as we take on two cross-town rivals to close out the chase towards a conference championship,” said Alex Ireland, head men’s basketball coach.
The men’s basketball team is ranked #17 in the nation and #1 in the Southern State Athletics Conference (SSAC), touting an impressive 13-2 conference record. Graduating seniors will be recognized before the homecoming game on Saturday, Feb. 22.
Following the pep rally, Dalton State schools and departments will host alumni and friends’ socials at restaurants in the community beginning at 6:30 p.m.
- Athletics – Cafe Ostro
- Dean of Students – Cherokee Brewing & Pizza
- School of Education – El Maguey
- Health Professions – Dalton Brewing Company
- Wright School of Business – Jeffersons
- School of Arts and Sciences – Mariscos
The final day of events will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, with Dalton State’s inaugural Alumni Awards Celebration in the Bandy Gymnasium followed by the homecoming game and coronation.
“Dalton State is thrilled to host its inaugural Alumni Awards, a celebration of the remarkable achievements and contributions of our graduates,” Sam Dindoffer, director of government and alumni relations. “Approximately 80% of our alumni stay local to our region after graduation, and this initiative reflects our appreciation for the impact our alumni have on their communities and the institution. We are excited to honor their ongoing successes and dedication.”
Three alumni awards will be presented this year:
- The DJC Legacy Award will be awarded 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.
The Alumni Awards Celebration will include a brunch and is open to all Dalton State and Dalton Junior College alumni. Seating is limited. If you are interested in attending, please contact Sam Dindoffer at [email protected] to RSVP.
