Alumni flood SC State campus for the 'Livest Homecoming in America'

ORANGEBURG, S.C. – Johnny D. White, a proud 2002 South Carolina State University graduate, prioritizes homecoming on his calendar each year, and 2023 was no exception.

"I love returning to homecoming each year,” White said on Saturday. “This is my alma mater, and this school has given me so much, so I love to come back."

White was not alone, as alumni from around the nation descended upon Orangeburg last weekend for reunions, tailgating and the Bulldogs’ football game.  Loyal sons and daughters united through their deep love and unwavering loyalty to the university.

The highlight of this year's homecomingwas the remarkable turnout at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium, where more than 22,000 fans filled the stands to cheer on the Bulldogs, who secured a thrilling victory against Howard, 27-24. Even during the game, the tailgate areas were filled with people, making this year’s Homecoming the largest since the COVID-19 pandemic curbed social events.
 
The atmosphere was electric, as the aroma of food sizzling on the grill filled the air and music pulsated throughout the campus.

"I love coming back to homecoming, getting to fellowship with all my friends and old department chairs,” said Chris Young, a member of the SC State class of 1999.“This is the best time."

Young also hosted the Xi Psi experience tailgate with his brothers of Omega Psi Phi, which is annually known to be one of the best tailgating experiences of the season.

"From Washington DC to Texas, you'll never find a tailgating experience quite like the Xi Psi experience,” he said. ”Itis the best tailgating experience you'll have amongst all HBCUs."
 
More recent graduates also turned out in force:

• Morgan, a 2015 graduate, "It's a family reunion, the most optimal time to reunite with my friends."  highlighting the blessing that it is to have a time where everyone she used to see every day come together and celebrate.
• Danielle, a 2014 graduate, appreciated the chance to reconnect, stating, "It's always a great time coming back for homecoming. I get to catch up with people I haven't seen in a while," and she valued the networking opportunities during the tailgating festivities.
• Britney, a 2014 graduate, summed it up by saying, "I have no regrets about returning to the illustrious South Carolina State University." She thoroughly enjoyed the festivities and noted, "We're having a great time."

With such an incredible weekend for the university, it is undeniable that SC State truly is the home of the "Livest Homecoming in America."