Homecoming Weekend

Get Ready For A Weekend To Remember!

October 24 - 27, 2024

Homecoming 2023 — Homecoming at Utica (photo by Dominick D'amico)

Join Us!

COUNTDOWN TO HOMECOMING:

Get Social | #CUatU24:

Spread the word on Social Media. We can’t wait to see you as we celebrate Homecoming 2024!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Check your email for updates and new events in the coming weeks. (Not receiving email updates from Utica University? Contact us!)

BE SURE TO PRE-REGISTER!

On-site registration will not be available at Homecoming 2024, so don't forget to register in advance for all of your favorite events.

NOTE: REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24 AT 11:59 P.M.

7:00 p.m.
Executive Lecture Series: Dan Kalil '00
Robert Brvenik Center for Business Education, Clark City Center

Join us for the Eugene Romano Executive Lecture Series featuring a presentation by Dan Kalil '00, Chief Commercial Officer and co-founder of the groundbreaking cybersecurity and information security firm AIS.

Take the shuttle from Utica's main campus to Clark City Center. Buses will be leaving Strebel Circle at 6:30 p.m. and returning at approximately 9:00 p.m.

(No registration required - free and open to the public.)

EXTENDED BOOKSTORE HOURS: 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Stop by the Utica University Bookstore in Strebel Student Center and snag your Pioneer swag!

3:00 p.m.
Women’s Ice Hockey vs. London Devilettes (Exhibition Game)
Utica University Nexus Center, 300 Oriskany Street W., Utica

Come down to the Utica University Nexus Center and enjoy the game. Wear your blue and orange! (No registration required - free and open to the public.)

3:00 - 5:45 p.m.
Alumni Career Panels
Various locations on campus - see below

Students and alumni are invited to join notable alumni in select fields for an informative panel discussion, question and answer session, and networking. Sessions include:

Cybersecurity Professions Panel | 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Donahue Auditorium, Gordon Science Center

Moderator: John Oevering '18, G'20 G'22, Assistant Director of Cybersecurity Programs at Utica University

Panelists:
Stephanie Gonzalez '22, Cybersecurity Test Engineer, Booz Allen Hamilton
David Watson '21, Cybersecurity Test Engineer, Booz Allen Hamilton
Zach Lewis '13, Sr. Practice Manager at COFENSE

DEIB Panel: Realities, Challenges, and Benefits of Working in an Inclusive and Multicultural Environment | 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Thurston Hall, Room 206

Moderator: Kira Maddox G'24, Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator, Utica University

Panelists:
Dr. Kathyanne Davis '04, Social Worker, NYC Department of Education
Courtney Souvenir '95, Principal Associate & Sr. System Integrator, Capital One
Leila Davis '89, Chief Financial Officer, Universal Nutrition
Dr. Alfredo Medina '94, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion & College Diversity Officer, Bennington College

Pre-Law Professions Panel | 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Gordon Science Center 178

Moderator: Dr. Daniel Tagliarina

Panelists:
Stephen Dwyer JD '20, Associate Attorney, Pavese Law Firm, Naples FL
Brooke Riscica '23, 2nd year law student, Albany Law School, Albany NY
Kelly Maharaj JD '07, Associate Attorney at Holland & Knight LLP, New York NY
Quinlyn Beaver JD '21, Law Clerk at Goldberg Segalla, Syracuse NY

Education Professions Panel | 5:00 - 5:45 p.m.
Boehlert Hall Conference Room

Moderator: Dick Moon '71, Adjunct Professor of Education, Utica University

Panelists:
Asia Marie Rosa '18, First Year Coordinator and Adjunct Professor, Marist College
Kerry Sullivan '96 G'04, Social Studies, Holland Patent, Adjunct Professor, Utica University
Andrew Massoud G'11, English, Whitesboro
AnnaMaria Omilanowicz '10, Director of Multicultural Life and Diversity, SUNY Cortland

(Registration required for all sessions - free)

4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Chemo Characters - Cancer Coping Mechanisms of the Easily Amused
Barrett Art Gallery, Donohue Concourse

This remarkable, life-affirming exhibition by breast cancer survivor Dr. Thomas McCarthy explores and examines some of the ways in which he amused and occupied himself during difficult times, including by photographing himself in entertaining re-enactments of scenes with famous bald characters and people after losing his own hair to chemotherapy. (No registration required - free.)

5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Comedy Magician Danny H
Ellen Knower Clarke Lounge, Ralph F. Strebel Student Center

Danny H. is an award-winning magician that puts on a hilarious, mind-blowing magic and mentalism show! His unique blend of magic and comedy has entertained audiences all over the country. Danny’s act has taken him to places like New York, where he performed in the longest-running Off-Broadway magic show in New York, Monday Night Magic. He has been featured on several magazines like The Linking Ring, where he appeared on the cover in the August 2015 issue as well as an article written in the January 2016 issue. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and be amazed with Danny’s unique take on the art of magic! Limited seating. (No registration required - free.)

6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Welcome Reception hosted by the Utica's Alumni Council: Raise a glass with President Todd!
Pioneer Pub, Ralph F. Strebel Student Center

The Utica Alumni Council invites Homecoming attendees to join President Todd Pfannestiel in enjoying some light refreshments, beverages, live music by Jack Anten '18, and the company of fellow alumni. The North East Tap Co.'s 1969 Vintage Tap Truck will be selling alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Each registrant will receive ONE complimentary drink ticket. Additional beverages may be purchased directly from the North East Tap Co. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the J.P. Ramel Scholarship Fund at Utica University. (Registration required - free.)

7:00 p.m.
Men’s Lacrosse Alumni Game and Reception
Charles A. Gaetano Stadium (game) and John A. Donohue, Sr. '57 and Valerie F. Donohue Concourse (reception)

Catch the alumni game and stick around for the 2024 Men’s Lacrosse Awards Ceremony and Alumni Reception. The Alumni Reception will take place after the Awards Ceremony. This is one of the longest-running and most popular Homecoming traditions. (Registration required - $20 per person.)

7:00 p.m.
Women’s Volleyball Game: Utica University vs. St. John Fisher University
Doris Wester and Walter E. Miga Court, Harold T. Clark Jr. Athletic Center

Help us cheer on the Pioneers as they take on St. John Fisher! (No registration required - free and open to the public.)

7:00 p.m.
Men’s Ice Hockey vs. SUNY Potsdam (Exhibition Game)
Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium

Come down to The Aud and cheer on the Pioneers! (No registration required. Tickets required for admission - see Adirondack Bank Center for details.)

7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Utica University Performance Showcase
Strebel Auditorium, Ralph F. Strebel Student Center

Come see the Cabaret! Join Utica University students as they sing, dance and perform for students, alumni, and families attending Homecoming 2024. (No registration required - free.)

EXTENDED BOOKSTORE HOURS: 11:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Stop by the Utica University Bookstore in Strebel Student Center and snag your Pioneer swag! Utica University apparel will also be available at the football game.

9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Utica University Advisory Board / Committee Meetings (Invitation Only)

Utica Alumni Council Meeting
Conference Room, Sherwood Boehlert Hall and Conference Center
Construction Management Industry Advisory Board Meeting
Collins Conference Room, Thurston Hall

9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Open House for Students and Alumni: Reflecting and Imagining the Past, Present, and Future
Francis A. Wilcox Intercultural and Student Organization Center

Hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Join students and alumni for this enjoyable event! Light refreshments will be served. (Registration required - free.)

9:00 a.m.
12th Man Tailgate
Parking Lot A

Are you ready for some Pioneer Football? Join us for our members-only tailgate. (12th Man Club membership required for entry.)

10:00 a.m.
Women's Lacrosse Alumni Game and Luncheon
Laura M. Casamento Track and Field Complex (game); Pioneer Pub, Ralph F. Strebel Student Center (luncheon)

Come watch the current Utica University women’s lacrosse team play against alumnae in this longstanding Homecoming tradition. Lunch immediately to follow the game. Join us! (Registration required - game is free; luncheon: $20 per person.)

10:30 a.m.
Baseball Alumni Game
Baseball Field

Calling all Pioneer Baseball alumni! Join us for this enjoyable pickup game and help us celebrate the long tradition of baseball at Utica. After the game, we'll head over to the "Pre-Gaming with the Pioneers" tailgate for some good times. (No registration required - game is free; be sure to pre-register for the tailgate event.)

10:30 a.m.
Golden Pioneer Reception
John A. Donohue, Sr. ’57 and Valerie F. Donohue Concourse, Frank E. Gannett Memorial Library

Enjoy a bloody Mary or mimosa, reminisce with friends, and browse through a special collection from the archives highlighting Utica's storied history.

10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Chemo Characters - Cancer Coping Mechanisms of the Easily Amused
Barrett Art Gallery, Donohue Concourse

11:00 a.m.
The President’s Golden Pioneer & Alumni Awards Luncheon
John A. Donohue, Sr. ’57 and Valerie F. Donohue Concourse, Frank E. Gannett Memorial Library

Join our host, President Todd Pfannestiel, for an early lunch. Celebrate with the Classes of 1974 and earlier. The Class of 1974 will be welcomed as our newest Golden Pioneers. Our Alumni Award recipients will also be recognized at this event. (Registration required - free for members of the Class of 1974, 1969, 1964, and 1959; all others: $35 per person.)

10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Construction Management Tailgate Event
Thurston Hall Back Lawn

All are encouraged to attend the Construction Management (CM) tailgate gathering; enjoy home style BBQ, live music, and much more. (No registration required - free.)

11:00 a.m.
Campus Tours with Utica University Admissions Ambassadors
Cynkus Family Welcome Center

Join Utica University Admissions Ambassadors on a walking tour of campus! It's a great opportunity to reacquaint yourself with familiar places on campus and explore Utica University’s newest facilities. (Tours are now at capacity - no more registrants are being accepted.)

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Activities Corridor and Farmer’s Market
Walkway between Parking Lot A and Charles A. Gaetano Stadium

Learn about Utica University's student organizations and meet some of our student leaders! Participating organizations will offer visitors an opportunity to visit information tables and "trick or treat" with the organizations. Also, select area vendors will be here to offer fall-themed goods for sale. Light refreshments will be served along the corridor while supplies last. (No registration required - free.)

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Pre-Gaming with the Pioneers: Volleyball and Football
Thurston Hall Side Lawn

Join the Pioneer family as we “pre-game” before our Pioneers on the Volleyball and Football teams take on their Homecoming opponents. Enjoy home-style BBQ, live music, and more. The North East Tap Co.’s 1969 Vintage Tap Truck will be selling alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the J.P Ramel Scholarship Fund at Utica University. (Registration required - free.)

11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity - Beta Iota Chapter Tailgate (Invitation Only)
Parking Lot A (behind the Cynkus Family Welcome Center)

Pre-game festivities offering alumni of the fraternity and members of the Utica University community a chance to connect and celebrate. The events will include barbecue, beverages, and plenty of opportunities for socializing and reminiscing about shared memories. (Registration required - invitation only.)

1:00 p.m.
Football Game: Utica University vs. Alfred University
Charles A. Gaetano Stadium

Wear your best blue and orange and come cheer on our Pioneers! (Registration not required - free. We encourage you to bring a non-perishable item for Feed Our Vets.)

1:00 p.m.
Women’s Volleyball Game: Utica University vs. Nazareth University
Doris Wester and Walter E. Miga Court, Harold T. Clark Jr. Athletic Center

Join us as the Pioneer Women's Volleyball team takes on Nazareth! (No registration required - free.)

2:00 - 4:00 p.m.
BAA and DEIB at Utica University: Updates and Opportunity for Deeper Engagement
Strebel Auditorium, Ralph F. Strebel Student Center

Hosted by the President of the Black Alumni Association and the Vice President for DEIB/Chief Diversity Officer. (No registration required - free.)

2:30 p.m.
ABM Turf Naming Ceremony
Charles A. Gaetano Stadium

Naming ceremony will take place on our amazing new turf during the football game halftime. (No registration required - free with admission to football game.)

3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Young Scholars’ Annual Potluck Gathering (Invitation Only)
Lawn outside of the Faculty Center

Current Young Scholars Liberty Partnerships Program (YSLPP) students, alumni, families, and friends are invited to gather for this enjoyable annual event. (Registration not required - free - invitation only.)

4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Pre-Gaming with the Pioneers: Field Hockey and Soccer
Endzone Tent at Charles A. Gaetano Stadium

Join the Pioneer family as we “pre-game” before the Field Hockey and Men’s Soccer teams take on their Homecoming opponents. Enjoy light snacks, beverages, and good company. (Registration required - free.)

4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Accounting Reunion Celebrating the Legacy of Professor Randy Huta ’63
Andrew and Mary Hislop Auditorium, Thurston Hall

Please join our hosts Steve Surace '98 and David '76 & Martha '77 Lamb for an Accounting Reunion and Celebration of the Legacy of Randy Huta '63. Reminisce with current and retired faculty, alumni, and friends about your time at Utica, and share your story about "Randy" our colleague, teacher, mentor, and friend. (Registration required)

5:00 - 8:00 p.m.
“Spooky Lane”
Ellen Knower Clarke Lounge and Ralph F. Strebel Student Center

Dare to step into the eerie unknown at Spooky Lane, the ultimate Halloween experience that will send shivers down your spine! Join us for a night of thrills and chills as you explore our haunted house and haunted village, where every corner holds a new fright and every shadow conceals a ghostly presence. (Registration not required - free.)

5:00 p.m.
Field Hockey Game: Utica University vs. SUNY Brockport
Charles A. Gaetano Stadium

Cheer on Utica University Field Hockey! (Registration not required - Free.)

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Stroll, Dance, and Movement Exhibit
Ralph F. Strebel Auditorium, Strebel Student Center

Join us for a night of strolling – a part of the step tradition – which includes rhythmic choreography of stomping, clapping, chanting and singing, synchronized all in one as we celebrate in all forms of cheer, dance, movement, and body expressions b different groups, including Utica Student Dance groups.

See which forms are the audience's favorites and who earns the top prize for best expression. The doors open promptly at 6:00 p.m. Seating is limited. (To register, please contact Mark Kovacs, Executive Director of DEIB, at mkovacs@utica.edu. Free.)

7:00 p.m.
Men’s Soccer Game: Utica University vs. SUNY Brockport
Laura M. Casamento Track and Field Complex

Cheer on the Pioneers as they take on Brockport. (Registration not required - free.)

8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Casino Night
John A. Donohue, Sr. ’57 and Valerie F. Donohue Concourse, Frank E. Gannett Memorial Library

Las Vegas comes to Utica University! Experience the fun and excitement of playing in a real casino without having to fly to Las Vegas. Try your luck at various casino games and win fantastic prizes! No real money is involved. All ages are welcome. (Registration not required - free.)

NOTE: Unfortunately, the "Sunrise Serenity: Yoga-Qigong Fusion & Juice Bar" event has been canceled. We apologize for any inconvenience.

10:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Farewell Brunch for Parents, Families, and Alumni
Dining Commons, Ralph F. Strebel Student Center

Join current students, your fellow classmates, parents, family members, friends, and members of Utica University’s senior leadership for brunch in the Dining Commons as we close out Homecoming weekend. ($8.00 per person for those who pre-register/$10.00 per person at the door.)

More About Homecoming

2024 Alumni Award Recipients

Pioneer Legacy Award
Ann Wynne '58

University Key Award
Randy Huta '63 (posthumously)

Distinguished Alumnus Award
Stephen Surace '98

Outstanding Service Award
Mark C. Kovacs

Young Leadership Award
Michael Delia, Jr. '20

Honorary Alumna Award
Stephanie Opalka

Registration is Open!

NOTE: REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24 AT 11:59 P.M.

Get Your Gear On

You can celebrate your Pioneer spirit and support Utica students by purchasing 100% genuine Utica swag at the Utica University Homecoming 2024 Gear Shop! 100% of the proceeds from the Homecoming 2024 Gear Shop go directly to The Fund For Student Success at Utica University, which supports student scholarships, academic support programming, and career readiness. Utica gear is the best way to dress for success ... and ensure our students have the first-rate experience that they deserve.

So get your gear on and make a difference. And don't forget to wear your colors at Homecoming!

Utica University Gear Shop