While Homecoming is meant to lure alumni back to Pitt’s Oakland campus, we know that many of the University’s faculty and staff are alums who just never left.
There are many activities this weekend (see the full list here), from receptions for specific schools to celebrations of alumni old and young.
Any couples who want to reminisce about taking their wedding vows can stop by Heinz Memorial Chapel from 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 25 and walk down the aisle. Couples will receive a red rose compliments of the chapel, and chapel staff will take your photo, using your personal camera. This free event is open to everyone, whether or not you were married at the chapel. No registration required — just stop in.
Here are some other activities that might be of interest to faculty and staff, whether they are Pitt graduates or not.
50th Celebration Computer Center History Exhibit: Noon-6 p.m. Oct. 24, William Pitt Union, Kimbo Art Gallery. The documents, artifacts, photos and various memorabilia collected from Pitt alumni and the University archives mark the 50th anniversary of the Computer Center Takeover and civil rights activities since then.
AAAC Time Capsule Ceremony: 1:30-2 p.m. Oct. 25, Thornburgh Room, Hillman Library. The African-American Alumni Council/University 2069 Time capsule project began as way to preserve the rich history, cultural legacy and experiences of those in the Pitt community from 1969 to the present. Through letters, photos, video, artifacts and other materials, contributors to the time capsule will share with the future their assessment of life, times and diversity at the University today and their aspirations for 2069.
“Say it Loud!” book launch and panel discussion: 2- 3:30 p.m. Oct. 25, Thornburgh Room, Hillman Library. The Jan. 15, 1969 Computer Center Takeover marked the beginning of a new era for the black community at Pitt and served a pivotal point for enhancing race relations on campus. “Say It Loud” tells personal stories of the events during that era.
A Toast to SCI: 4 p.m. Oct. 25, University Club: A cocktail reception and an opportunity to meet the School of Computing and Information's founding dean Paul Cohen. Register here.
University Update with Chancellor Gallagher: 5 p.m. Oct. 25, University Club, Ballroom B. This new event will allow alumni to hear directly from the chancellor about the most up-to-date happenings on campus. Register here for the chancellor’s update. Watch the update live here.
Welcome Back Reception, hosted by the Pitt Alumni Association: 7-8:30 p.m. Oct. 25, Cathedral of Learning, Commons Room. Those attending the Homecoming reception can browse the Nationality Rooms, peruse the Hillman Library archives exhibit and have hors d’oeuvres and refreshments before the fireworks. This event is complimentary for all Pitt alumni. Register here.
Documentary film debut “Blue, Bold, and Black … Say it Loud: From Uprising to Still Rising”: 8-9:30 p.m. Oct. 25, Alumni Hall, Room 121. This sequel to “Doorway to Distinction” is a tribute to the Pitt African-American experience as it developed, intensified and elevated in the 50-year sweep beginning with the black-student occupation of the University computer center in 1969 to 21st century milestones and achievements of students, alumni, faculty and administrators.
Homecoming Fireworks and Laser Show: 9 p.m. Oct. 25, Bigelow Boulevard. The Pitt Program Council presents a display of fireworks and lasers timed to music. The Homecoming court finalists will be announced at the conclusion of the show.
Official Homecoming Pregame Tent and Tailgate Village: 9-11:30 a.m. Oct. 26, 100 Art Rooney Ave., North Side: Join the Pitt Alumni Association for the Homecoming Tailgate in the big white tent adjacent to Heinz Field-Gate A for food, beverages and pregame festivities, including appearances by the Pitt cheerleaders and Roc the Panther. Tickets for the Pregame Tent event are $35 and $10 for children 12 and under. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space allows.
The Tailgate Village will have areas designated for several schools and colleges: Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences, Business, College of General Studies, Computing & Information, Engineering, Education, School of Health & Rehabilitation Science, Heinz Chapel, Nursing and more. Homecoming Tailgate Village is free. All guests who register online will receive a giveaway.
Pitt vs. Miami Football Game: Noon, Oct. 26, Heinz Field. Pitt Athletics is offering all alumni, family and friends discounted tickets to the Pitt-Miami football game to wrap up Homecoming Weekend. The discount is only available prior to Oct. 26 by purchasing online here or by calling the Panthers Ticket Office.
— Susan Jones
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