By Logan Jones
Student Reporter
With Northwestern’s homecoming only days away, many people are anxiously making preparations for all that comes with it.
However, there is more to Homecoming week than just gatherings and a Northwestern football game.
John Allen, the director of alumni relations, said that NWOSU’s homecoming is a time for Northwestern’s alumni to come and reconnect.
“We have so many things planned for our returning alumni like the annual Bar-B-Que, our 5K Fun Run and many more,” Allen said. “Homecoming allows past students to come back and see what Northwestern has become and grown into.”
There are many alumni that hold Northwestern and the town of Alva near and dear to their hearts. Even those that went on to become successful say that if it was not for NWOSU, they would not be where they are today. Homecoming allows past students to return and pay homage to the place that gave rise to their success.
The homecoming festivities are not limited only to Northwestern students and those who live in Alva.
“This is everyone’s homecoming,” Allen said. “People from all over the northwestern Oklahoma area come out for it. You don’t even have to be a Northwestern student or alumnus to be a part of the culture and community.”
Allen, who was raised in Southern Kansas, fondly remembers making the drive down to Alva for the homecoming festivities.
“Alva was our big city. It was where we went to go celebrate.” Allen said.
Kaylen Hanson, the Director of Students and Housing, and Northwestern alumna, is always looking forward to homecoming every year. She has experienced the entire spectrum of spending homecoming week in Alva, beginning as a student before becoming a faculty member and ultimately a parent.
“Both me and my husband have been here for a while now, and to be a part of it as a student and know a faculty member, it’s really cool,” Hansen said. “Now we bring our kids, it’s just a fun deal to bring the whole family out to.”
Even current Northwestern students come to respect and enjoy the school’s week-long celebration. Students like senior, Jacey Bales. As a second generation NWOSU Ranger, Bales feels a close connection to the school and to homecoming. “Since both of my parents graduated from here, I guess it’s like I’m carrying on a tradition.” Bales said. “Homecoming just embodies what it means to go to school here and be a Ranger.”