Every year, homecoming brings the SMU community together. The weekend-long festivities are a time for current mustangs and alumni to reunite with classmates, old friends, and SMU’s traditions, such as the annual homecoming parade. The theme for this year’s SMU homecoming was Bright Lights, Big Cities.
SMU’s homecoming weekend would not be possible without the students’ hard work. The week started with Rock the Vote on Monday, a pep rally where teams cheer on their candidates as they answer interview questions for points, and a display of painted Peruna signs. Student Foundation also organized a philanthropy event supporting Blessings in a Backpack and the homecoming concert, which featured artist COIN.
Prior to Saturday’s homecoming parade, students spent the week “pomping” their organization’s float in the East Campus garage. “Pomping” is the method used to decorate SMU’s homecoming parade floats and involves rolling tissue paper into tiny balls. It was a week full of power drills, lots and lots of tissue paper, spray glue, and collaboration. Speaking from experience, the process is tedious and, at times, a bit painful, but the end result is always worth it!
SMU’s 2022 Homecoming Parade featured each organization’s creative float and 38 impressive candidates. Each represented organizations on campus, ranging from Greek life to multicultural groups and residence halls. The floats artistically depicted the culture and iconic landmarks of its designated city. Paradegoers saw a double-decker bus from London, the Hollywood Sign, Rome’s Coliseum, and much more!
Alpha Chi Omega’s New York City-themed float took first place in this year’s homecoming parade. First runner-up went to Pi Beta Phi representing Hollywood, but every team’s float stole the show! While there could only be one pair on top, every candidate won for being selected to represent their organization and participating in the many festivities.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s SMU homecoming the best one yet!