A Look Back at Homecoming 2017

Jacksonville State University alumni, students, employees and friends woke to cold temperatures and very chilly rain on October 28, 2017, but that didn't deter the Gamecock Nation from celebrating Homecoming in true Gem of the Hills fashion.

When the nasty weather required cancellation of the parade, attendees took it in stride and moved their celebrations into whatever shelter was available-- tailgating tents, the Alumni House porch and pavilion, and indoors. Those who stuck it out at the Alumni House were treated to food, fellowship, and a great performance by Callista Clark and Southbound under the Alumni House pavilion.

As the day went on the rain became intermittent but the temperatures continued to drop. By the start of the homecoming game against SEMO, it was 49 degrees and evident that the fans had every intention of being as tough as the team they came to see.

The Gamecocks played well in front of a crowd that included members of the team that brought JSU its only football national title, in 1992. The third-ranked 2017-2018 Gamecocks wore throwback uniforms that paid homage to the '92 team, and ended the day with a 23-7 victory over Southeast Missouri.

At halftime, Homecoming Queen and King Shea O'Donnell and Paris Coleman were introduced, along with the Alumni of the Year: Wayne Rowe, '76/'78, Alumnus of the Year; Dr. Colleen M. Schmitt, '81, Alumna of the Year; Laura Lundy Wheale, '10, Young Alum of the Year; Col. Michael Martel, '93, Military Alumnus of the Year; Terry Casey, '93/'94, Outstanding Faculty/Staff Member of the Year; and Theta Eta Alumni Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Alumni Chapter of the Year.

Below are some photographic highlights of Homecoming Week 2017. Enjoy!