Bucknell Homecoming Weekend celebrates 150 years of Black excellence | Education

Lewisburg, Pa. — Bucknell University’s campus will welcome over 500 alumni, families, and friends from Oct. 3-5 for Homecoming Weekend 2025. This annual autumn tradition features academic, cultural, athletic, and social events that celebrate both Bucknell’s past and its future prospects. One of the central events this year is the Black Alumni Association’s celebration of 150 Years of Black Excellence at Bucknell.

“Homecoming annually provides an occasion for Bucknellians to reconnect with classmates, faculty and staff while experiencing the vitality of campus life,” explained Tara Michaels, director, events & experiences. “This year’s weekend is designed to honor the University’s enduring traditions, spotlight landmark anniversaries and bring together generations of Bison in a spirit of camaraderie and pride.”

Friday: Heritage and Hall of Fame Recognition

Friday morning starts with the opening of the archives exhibit: Black Legacy at Bucknell: 150 Years of Excellence, Resilience and Impact in Bertrand Library. Curated by students Gianna Depina ’26 and Athaliah Elvis ’26, the exhibit chronicles the experiences, contributions, and struggles of Black students at Bucknell since Edward McNight Brawley, Class of 1875, became the University’s first Black graduate. Featuring images, documents, and student voices, the timeline connects Bucknell’s past to its present and ensures the legacy of Black excellence remains central to the University’s story. The exhibit will remain open throughout the weekend and is part of the Black Alumni Association’s celebration of 150 Years of Black Excellence at Bucknell.

The evening features a showcase of athletic and artistic achievements, with the Bucknell Athletics Hall of Fame induction ceremony honoring six new members: Bob Behler, Phil Reynolds ’66, Joe Triszczuk ’76, Bob Rhein ’85, Valentina Rozas ’10 and Rob Arent ’12. At the same time, the women’s volleyball team takes on American at 7 p.m. in Davis Gym, bringing competitive spirit into the Homecoming spotlight.

Adding to the evening’s cultural programming, alumna Carolyn Ball Harrison ’88 — founder and executive producer of Good Light Productions, LLC — will present “Precious Metals: Beauty in Brokenness,” a solo theatrical performance at 7 p.m. in Tustin Studio Theatre. Harrison’s work explores resilience and healing through storytelling and has been praised for its ability to transform personal history into shared inspiration.

Saturday: Anniversaries, athletics, and alumni highlights

Saturday’s events reflect the weekend’s theme of celebrating both tradition and innovation. The morning includes the 20th anniversary celebration of the Bucknell Center for Sustainability & the Environment, which has been a hub for interdisciplinary teaching and research on pressing environmental issues. Guests may also attend an open practice with the men’s basketball team in Sojka Pavilion, offering an inside look at the program’s preparation for the upcoming season.

Alumni can then gather at the Outdoor Education & Leadership Tailgate or the Alumni and Gridiron Tailgate before cheering on the Bison football team in its noon kickoff against Richmond at Christy Mathewson-Memorial Stadium. Additional athletic contests, including field hockey, men’s water polo, and volleyball will give fans multiple opportunities to support Bucknell student-athletes.

Alumni will honor Bucknell’s second annual “30 Under 30” recognition program, highlighting young graduates making a significant impact in their fields. The University will dedicate the Jack Wheatcroft ’49 Reading Room in Bucknell Hall to honor the legacy of the distinguished professor and poet.

The aforementioned celebration of 150 Years of Black Excellence at Bucknell will feature a reception, dinner, and dance with music from DJ Jamal Stith ’11. The program will recognize the impact of Black students and alumni while honoring the University’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and leadership.

Entertainment will continue into the evening with a Cirque Kikasse acrobatic performance, a Two Past Midnight a cappella reunion concert, and tours of the Bucknell Observatory, where guests can view the night sky through the historic 1887 Clark & Sons refractor telescope.

Sunday: Reflection and fellowship

The weekend closes on a reflective note Sunday with the Gospel Music Residency Worship Service, led by Rev. Angela Jones, Bucknell’s 2025–26 gospel music fellow, at Rooke Chapel, followed by a community lunch. The service, featuring spirited music and alumni participation, offers a meaningful opportunity to conclude the weekend in celebration and fellowship.

A full schedule of events and registration information is available on the Bucknell University Homecoming website.