The University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma is excited to unveil an expanded lineup of events for Homecoming 2024, “The Golden Era,” set for Oct. 28–Nov. 3. This year’s schedule features a variety of new activities alongside traditional favorites, offering more opportunities than ever for alumni, students, and friends to gather and celebrate 50 years since the institution was renamed from the Oklahoma College of Liberal Arts.
“Homecoming is an exciting and nostalgic time, and we are eager to engage and reconnect with our current students, alumni, and the community at large,” said Whitney Palesano, director of alumni relations and university development. “We’ve organized a variety of events so that there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
The festivities begin on Monday, Oct. 28, with a stargazing and s’mores event at the USAO Habitat, presented by HSI Sensing. On Tuesday, Oct. 29, the evening features a mentorship and networking event, sponsored by Chickasha YP, followed by the USAO men’s basketball game against Texas College and a choir concert at Te Ata Memorial Auditorium.
Wednesday, Oct. 30, will see the USAO women’s volleyball team face Oklahoma City University, followed by a Student Life bonfire later that evening. Thursday, Oct. 31, brings Halloween-themed festivities, including a women’s basketball game against Providence, complete with a club costume contest. The evening will also feature the Creature Feature Halloween costume contest and runway at Art Wrecker, organized by Jordan Vinyard, and the Monster Mash after-party in the USAO Ballroom.
Friday, Nov. 1, marks the official start of Homecoming 2024, presented by Kay Neill & Phillip Wint, Willowbrook, First National Bank & Trust Company, and Standley Systems. Early risers can participate in a golf scramble at Winter Creek Golf Course in Blanchard. That evening, the Opening Reception & Reunion Night, presented by Arvest Bank, will serve as the weekend’s registration hub in downtown Chickasha, where attendees can reconnect with classmates and explore local venues. USAO’s volleyball team will also take on Southwestern Christian University for Senior Night.
Saturday, Nov. 2, begins with a celebratory brunch and the annual Alumni Board meeting, followed by a tailgate party before the women’s basketball game against Arlington Baptist, where USAO will honor Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Jadyn Wallis. The men’s basketball game against the University of the Southwest will follow, featuring the Homecoming Court presentation during halftime. The day will conclude with an after-party at Legends.
On Sunday, Nov. 3, a memorial service will be held in the Alumni Chapel, followed by a reception and a tour of the Stevens Alumni House to close out the weekend’s events.
To register and stay updated on scheduling, please visit usao.edu/homecoming.
About the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma
As Oklahoma’s liberal arts college, the University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma provides a distinctive education in the liberal arts and sciences, supporting both its interdisciplinary core curriculum and major fields of study with superior teaching. USAO fosters diversity of thought and practice to help students realize meaningful, purposeful and productive lives as global citizens in a rapidly-changing world.