Weber State University Makes Ogden Purple for Homecoming
OGDEN, Utah – Weber State University will join the community to Make Ogden Purple during a week of traditional homecoming celebrations, Oct. 8-16. Classic events include lighting the “W” on the mountainside, a pep rally, tailgate party and football game against rival Montana State University, Oct. 15 at 8 p.m.
“I am so excited for homecoming,” said Ben Ferney, student body president. “I look forward to students connecting, creating lasting memories and finding a deeper sense of belonging at Weber State.”
Homecoming will also kick off Make Ogden Purple, an initiative encouraging the Ogden community to show their Wildcat pride year round. Amir Jackson, Weber State Alumni Association Executive Board member and founder of Nurture the Creative Mind, conceived the idea.
“Everyone is invited to look for creative ways to ‘purple up’ Ogden,” Jackson said. “We want this to be an authentic show of support.”
Individuals, schools and institutions can all do something different, but the initiative is meant as a visual reminder of the importance of the collaboration between Ogden City and Weber State. Businesses and homeowners are planning to shine purple lights in signs and windows. During homecoming, Weber State banners, flyers and art will adorn downtown sidewalks and power poles. A Purple Paw Parade, Oct. 9 from 2-6 p.m., will allow dog owners to show their Wildcat pride during a walk from the Ogden Amphitheater up 25th Street to the WSU Community Education Center on Monroe Avenue.
The Homecoming Pep Rally will be held Oct. 11 at 12:20 p.m. at Stewart Bell Tower Plaza and will feature coaches, athletes, Waldo and the award-winning Spirit Squad. Those who attend will receive a free homecoming T-shirt.
“The Department of Student Involvement and Leadership and WSUSA leaders are extremely excited to have students back on campus, participating in various events and activities intended to enhance and revitalize student life on campus,” said Tara Paris, Student Involvement and Leadership director. “In particular, homecoming 2021 is right around the corner and various groups from across campus are programming different types of activities for students to participate in throughout the week, and celebrate being a Wildcat.”
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Homecoming kickoff is set for Oct. 15 at 8 p.m. against Montana State. The best seats will be in Stewart Stadium, but it will also be televised on ESPNU. The community is invited to the tailgate party with food and activities before the game.
During homecoming and all year long, the Wildcat community can showcase their support for the university on Instagram @MakeOgdenPurple or tag #MakeOgdenPurple on Twitter and Facebook.
Homecoming Event Schedule
Friday, Oct. 8
16th Annual Outdoor Gear Sale and Swap
Saturday, Oct. 9
Homecoming Recycle Run 5k. Participants can run the same distance on their own anytime from Oct. 8-16.
Purple Paw Parade, 2-6 p.m., downtown Ogden. To register, visit this link.
Monday, Oct. 11
Homecoming Pep Rally at Stewart Bell Tower Plaza, 12:20 p.m.
At Light the W, students can become “True Wildcats” with a kiss at Bell Tower Plaza, 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 13
WSU Service Day of Remembrance: Wildcat Trail System Renovation Project 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (two-hour shifts).
Dive-In Movie, “ Hocus Pocus” at Swenson Pool 7-10 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 14
Clubs and Organizations Casino Night at Student Union Ballrooms 6-9 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 15
Eddie’s BBQ, 4-6 p.m.
Homecoming tailgate, 6-7:45 p.m.
Homecoming football game vs. Montana State University, kickoff at 8 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 16
WSU Salutes, honoring distinguished alumni and community members at Val A. Browning Center, ceremony at 7 p.m.
For photos from the 2019 Homecoming game, visit this link.
Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
Kennedy Jones, Marketing & Communications
801-626-7948 • kennedyjones1@weber.edu- Contact:
Allison Barlow Hess, Public Relations director
801-626-7948 • ahess@weber.edu