Homecoming

Location: Campus

Keep your eyes open throughout Homecoming Weekend! 15 Bulldogs are hidden around campus, and it's up to you to find them.

Spot a Bulldog? Bring it to the Homecoming registration table anytime during the weekend and trade it in for an exclusive UCU Alumni T-shirt.

Location: Patridge Conference Room (lower-level student center)

Celebrate the legacy of one of Union's most beloved Bulldogs, Bobbie Doolin, with a special exhibit featuring her artwork and handcrafted Union pieces, many of which remain part of campus today.

Explore Bobbie's work alongside Union memorabilia, collectibles and pieces of University history that celebrate the traditions and Bulldog spirit she helped create and preserve.

Location: Minton Dining Hall

A taste of campus, just $5! Revisit one of the familiar traditions of your Union days and enjoy an all-you-can-eat dinner in Minton Dining Hall for just $5.

Whether you're catching up with old friends or simply want to see what's on the menu these days, come grab a plate and enjoy dinner on campus at an alumni-friendly price.

Location: TBD

Join us for a special Homecoming screening of Cracking the Code: Phil Sharp and the Biotech Revolution, telling the remarkable story of 1966 Union alumnus and Nobel Prize-winning scientist Phil Sharp.

The documentary follows Sharp's journey from a rural Kentucky farm boy to one of the world's leading scientists and explores the groundbreaking RNA discovery that helped launch the biotechnology revolution.

Following the screening, Phil Sharp and his wife, Anne, also a 1966 Union alumna, will join us virtually for a special live Q&A. 

This unique opportunity will allow alumni, students and guests to hear directly from Phil about his journey.

Free and open to the public. 

Registration is encouraged.

Location: Sharp Academic Center

Stop by Conversations Coffee Shop in the and enjoy some of your favorite Starbucks beverages while you're back on campus for Homecoming.

Grab a coffee, catch up with old friends and take a little time to enjoy one of the familiar spots on campus.

Location: Sharp Academic Center Atrium

Join Dr. Joseph Pearson for a special lecture exploring the history and significance of the Barbourville Home Guard Flag, one of the University’s treasured pieces of local and Union history.

Hear the story behind the historic flag, its connection to the Barbourville community and the effort to preserve this important piece of Appalachian history. 

Guests will also have the opportunity to see the newly restored flag in person during the lecture.

Location: Patridge Conference Room (lower-level student center)

Celebrate the legacy of one of Union's most beloved Bulldogs, Bobbie Doolin, with a special exhibit featuring her artwork and handcrafted Union pieces, many of which remain part of campus today.

Explore Bobbie's work alongside Union memorabilia, collectibles and pieces of University history that celebrate the traditions and Bulldog spirit she helped create and preserve.

Location: Robsion Arena Lawn

Join your fellow Class of 1975 alumni for a special 50th reunion luncheon during the President’s Picnic. Enjoy a complimentary meal at reserved tables, reconnect with classmates, and receive a commemorative medallion celebrating this incredible milestone.

Location: Robsion Arena Lawn

(Minton Dining Hall in the event of rain)

Enjoy a casual meal and connect with alumni, students, friends and campus leadership in a relaxed setting.

Free and open to the public. Food is available on a first-come, first-served basis for the first 250 guests or while supplies last.

Location: Student Center Parking Lot

This is your Homecoming headquarters! The re-Union Tailgate is where alumni, students, and friends come together to celebrate all day long. Enjoy inflatables, yard games, food trucks, a photo booth, and more.

Plus, it’s perfectly positioned to catch the action of our Homecoming football games. 

Don’t miss this all-day Bulldog bash!

Location: Conway Boatman Chapel

Join us as we welcome the 2026 Hall of Fame inductees and recognize this year's Alumni Service Award recipient:

• Educators Hall of Fame: Dr. Jerry Jackson ’90, ’07
• Healthcare Hall of Fame: Arthur Sampson ’73
• Business & Professional Hall of Fame: George Hammons ’72
• Alumni Service Award: Tammy (Back) Garvey ’81

Come celebrate these outstanding Bulldogs and their contributions to their professions, their communities and Union Commonwealth University.

Location: Williamson Stadium

Bring the energy. Wear your orange and black. And let’s make some noise as our Bulldogs take on the University of Rio Grande.