Homecoming 2013 draws a big crowd on a brilliant fall day

A record attendance for Homecoming marked Elon's 125th anniversary celebration on Nov. 9, 2013.  

Whispy fall clouds and comfortable temperatures provided a perfect environment for Elon’s quasquicentennial Homecoming celebration. For more than two hours prior to the football game, fans gathered on Bank of America Drive for the new tailgating setup, with additional tents set up for many groups on Hunt and Tucker fields and in several parking lots. Bands played, DJs provided dance music, and balloons and good food made for a festive atmosphere.

> View a Homecoming 2013 Photo Gallery by University Communications photographer Kim Walker.

> See more photos on the Elon University Facebook page

Whitney Butcher '09, JD '12, Kristin Simonetti '05 and Jen Tucci '09, G'12
“Elon is a very special place for me,” said Whitney Butcher ’09, JD ’12. “A lot of people have connections here – it’s very moving to be back on campus.”

Jen Tucci ’09, G’12 said it was great to see so many alumni return to see the changes on campus. “I’m happy to come back for the connections,” Tucci said. “It’s a way to look backward and to look forward. Every Phoenix and Fighting Christian has the opportunity to do that. Elon is home.”

The football game included the annual announcement of

Homecoming King Eric Noyes and Homecoming Queen Meredith Citty.
Homecoming royalty. Homecoming Queen is Meredith Citty, representing Alpha Chi Omega and Homecoming King is Eric Noyes, representing ResLife.

This year’s alumni award winners were also honored at halftime. They included:

  • U.S. Navy Adm. William “Bill” E. Gortney ’77, Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award
  • Tracey Helton Lewis ’93 P’10, Distinguished Alumna of the Year
  • Darris Means ’05, Young Alumnus of the Year
  • Britten Ginsburg Pund ’06, Young Alumna of the Year
  • The Rev. Jonathan Chapman ’07, Service to Church and Society
  • Natasha Christensen ’07, Alumni Service Award
  • Lindsey Goodman Baker ’04, Distinguished Service to Elon Award