Honoring a Century of Alumni Traditions: Lincoln University Homecoming 2025

Mark your calendars: Homecoming 2025 at Lincoln University will take place from October 26 to November 1, 2025. This year's celebration marks the 100th anniversary of LU Homecoming, and the Blue Tiger family is ready to come together for a week of tradition, pride and community.

For alumni, Homecoming isn't just a date on the calendar. It's a reunion of classmates and sorority sisters, a moment to reflect on campus memories and a celebration of traditions that make LU feel like home.

"My favorite tradition is going to the Homecoming parade," said Rhonda Payne Harris, Class of 1978. "I get excited about the anticipation of seeing Lincoln's Marching Musical Storm come down Lafayette Street. The other part of that is seeing all the Lincoln alum from your class and the classes during your time at the school. Right after the parade, I am able to join my AKA sisters for a traditional gathering at the Inman Page Library before going off to the tailgate party at the stadium. Go Blue Tigers!"

The parade also resonates with Claudette Scott, Class of 1980. "One of my favorite Homecoming traditions is the coronation of Miss LU and later Mr. and Miss LU," she said. "It showcases the dignity and creativity of our students. I also look forward to the annual parade, which unites Lincoln to the community."

For Davion Thomas, Class of 2014, the Royal Court Coronation remains unforgettable. "Before serving as Mister Lincoln 13-14, my first coronation attending was my freshman year. Sitting there as a ROTC cadet I was astonished to witness the elegance, intent, display and invitation to walk in my royal reality," Thomas said. "I still attend coronations, and I know this 100th Homecoming's edition will only prove that the best is yet to come!"

The sounds of the Step Show echo in the memories of many alumni. "I go every year," said Kelli Todd, Class of 2005. "We have amazing fraternities and sororities of the Divine Nine on this campus. The talent that they do performing the Step Show is out of this world. The friendly competition is absolutely remarkable. They truly make Homecoming a wonderful event."

For Christopher Key, Class of 1995, Homecoming is as much about spirit as it is about tradition. "Standing on the hill with the alumni and Greeks watching the cars go by and everyone being peaceful," he said. "All the love and positive energy flowing reminded me of the best years of my life. Homecoming is a rebirth for many of us, an opportunity to fuel on life."

Some memories stretch back decades but remain as vivid as ever. "As a student, I remember how wonderful the Homecoming parade brought joy to me and my friends," said Ethel Pitts Walker, Class of 1968. "We got up early and went downtown to make sure we got a great place to see the wonderful band, floats, marchers, and other participants. There were people there from all around Jefferson City, and the parade prepared us for the rest of the Homecoming activities of the day, including the big game. I will always remember the incredible time I had at L.U. Homecoming."

Whether it's the parade, the coronation, the step show, the bonfire or the game, each tradition carries meaning for those who lived it. As Homecoming 2025 approaches, Lincoln University invites alumni, students and friends to return to Jefferson City, celebrate a century of tradition and make memories that will last another hundred years.

Voices of Tradition

"My favorite Lincoln University Homecoming tradition is definitely the Homecoming parade. It makes me happy to see all the people in the community coming out and enjoying the parade. Seeing the streets lined with all types of people, supporting a Lincoln tradition brings happiness to my heart." - Nikki Eddings '26

"Serenades and Greek friendships, the Pan Hellenic Council, we supported each other. I also loved the SGA and our Marching Band. Homecoming was always the best." - Jacqueline Watkins '78

"The Homecoming parade and the Homecoming dance." - Glenn Smith Sr. '73

"Tailgating and seeing old friends." - Duane Hill '99