Homecoming

Homecoming 2025: Playmakers & Pathbreakers

This fall, Union Commonwealth University rolls out the red carpet for a Homecoming celebration like no other — a tribute to the Playmakers & Pathbreakers who define our past, present, and future.


We’ll honor those who’ve led on the field and blazed trails beyond it — from athletic legends and Hall of Fame inductees, to our inspiring 50 Under 50 alumni, and the unforgettable teammates reuniting to relive their glory days. At the heart of it all, we celebrate a bold new chapter with the inauguration of our 20th president, Dr. DJ Washington.


Whether you wore the jersey, made your mark in the classroom, or simply loved your time at Union, Homecoming is your chance to reconnect, reminisce, and rally around what makes this place special.


Come home to Union. Celebrate the Playmakers. Honor the Pathbreakers. And be part of the legacy we’re building together

Let us know which events you'll be attending - register now!

REGISTER NOW

Please Note: The schedule below is subject to change. Events may be added, adjusted, or canceled based on attendance numbers and other logistics. Check back regularly for the latest updates!

Friday, September 19, 2025

  • Inauguration of Dr. DJ Washington - 2:00pm

    Location: Centennial Lawn (in the event inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at Robsion Arena)


    Join us for a historic occasion as we formally install Dr. DJ Washington as the 20th President of Union Commonwealth University. This momentous ceremony will celebrate Union’s bold future and honor the leadership that’s guiding us forward.


    Business or formal attire requested. 

  • Inaugural Reception - 4:00pm

    Location: Sharp Lawn


    Immediately following the ceremony, join us for a celebratory reception honoring Dr. DJ Washington. Enjoy light refreshments and warm fellowship with alumni, faculty, students, and community guests.

  • Men's Soccer Alumni Scrimmage - 7:00pm

    Location: Burch/Nau Field


    Come cheer on past and present Bulldogs as soccer alumni take the field for a fun and competitive evening of scrimmages. A great way to kick off team reunions and celebrate Union’s athletic legacy!

  • Women's Soccer Alumni Scrimmage - 7:00pm

    Location: Burch/Nau Field


    Come cheer on past and present Bulldogs as soccer alumni take the field for a fun and competitive evening of scrimmages. A great way to kick off team reunions and celebrate Union’s athletic legacy!

  • Softball Alumni Scrimmage - 7:00pm

    Location: Union Field


    Union softball alumni return to the diamond for a spirited scrimmage—this time under the brand-new stadium lights! A special evening for teammates, fans, and Bulldog faithful alike.

  • Inaugural & Community Ball - 8:00pm

    Location: Conway Boatman Lawn Tent


    An elegant evening under the stars! Celebrate the inauguration of Dr. DJ Washington with an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and community spirit. 

    Formal attire requested.


    This is a ticketed event. Tickets at $25 each.

Saturday, September 20, 2025

  • 5k Run/Walk - 8:00am

    Location: Student Center Parking Lot


    Start your Homecoming Saturday on the move! Join us for the annual 5K Run/Walk supporting Union Track & Field. Open to all ages and fitness levels—run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines.


    $25 to register. Includes race shirt.

    Register at www.unionky.edu/5k


    For information, please email Coach Chris Jelks at cjelks@unionky.edu

  • re-Union Tailgate - 11:00am

    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 mechanical bull, photo booths, and more.


    As the day continues, this central location will also host our evening concert and fireworks show—plus, it’s perfectly positioned to catch the action at both the soccer and football games. Don’t miss this all-day Bulldog bash!

  • Class of 1975 50th Reunion Luncheon- 11:00am

    Location: Conway Boatman Chapel  Tent


    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.

  • President's Picnic - 11:00am to 1:00pm

    Location: Conway Boatman Chapel Tent


    Join us for the annual President’s Picnic, featuring BBQ-style favorites, fellowship, and fun. 


    This free event is open to the public and offers a great opportunity to connect with alumni, students, and campus leadership in a relaxed setting.

  • Robsion Arena Gym Floor Dedication - Noon

    Location: Robsion Arena


    Join us as we honor Pete Moore, legendary basketball coach and longtime Union Commonwealth University employee, with the dedication of the gym floor at Robsion Arena. Celebrate his 20 years of leadership and lasting impact on Bulldog basketball.

  • 50 under 50 & Hall of Fame Ceremony - 1:00pm

    Location: Conway Boatman Chapel


    Celebrate excellence, leadership, and legacy as we honor our inaugural class of 50 Under 50 alumni and induct the newest members into the Union Commonwealth University Hall of Fame. This special ceremony highlights those who have made a lasting impact both on and off campus.

  • Men's & Women's Basketball Alumni Meet & Greet - 1:00pm

    Location: Robsion Arena


    Calling all basketball alumni! Come mingle with fellow former players and connect with the current Bulldogs proudly representing Union on the court. Share stories, swap memories, and celebrate your Bulldog legacy together. Who knows — maybe even some friendly competitive games between old and current Bulldogs?

  • Women's Soccer vs Truett McConnell - 1:00pm

    Location: Williamson Stadium


    Come cheer on the Union Women’s Soccer team as they take on Truett McConnell. Join fellow Bulldogs and show your support for our student-athletes competing on their home field!

  • Men's Soccer vs Truett McConnell - 3:00pm

    Location: Williamson Stadium


    Don’t miss your chance to watch the defending conference champion Bulldogs take the field! Cheer on our men’s soccer team as they face Truett McConnell in what promises to be an exciting match.

  • Baseball Alumni Meet & Greet - 3:00pm

    Location: Inddor Hitting Facility


    Baseball alumni are invited to reconnect at the Dan Sullivan Hitting Facility. Meet current coaches and players, share stories from your time on the diamond, and see how the program is preparing today’s Bulldogs for success.

  • Volleyball Alumni Game - 4:00pm

    Location: Robsion Arena


    Former Union volleyball players—lace up and hit the court once more! Whether you’re playing or cheering from the sidelines, this fun and spirited alumni match is a great way to celebrate your time as a Bulldog.

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - 5:00-8:00pm

    Location: Behind baseball field


    Soar to new heights—literally! Enjoy tethered hot air balloon rides offering stunning views of campus and the surrounding mountains. A unique Homecoming experience for all ages. 


    Tickets will be available for purchase on site.

  • Football Game - 6:00pm

    Location: Williamson Stadium


    The show must go on — and this one’s all about Bulldog pride.


    When not one but two opponents backed out for game day, we did what Bulldogs do best: dug deep, rallied together, and turned a challenge into an opportunity. Instead of a traditional game, we're hosting a first-ever Homecoming Inner-Squad Scrimmage — and trust us, this will be anything but ordinary.


    Every current Bulldog football player will take the field. No second string. No sidelines. Just full-uniform action, Bulldog vs. Bulldog, showcasing the strength, speed, and spirit of our entire roster. Plus, we’re working on some interactive twists—like letting football alumni call a few plays, or fans choosing challenges throughout the game. (You never know what might happen…)


    This is more than a scrimmage. It’s a celebration of the brotherhood, past and present — a chance to support our team, recognize our football alumni, and show that nothing can dim the lights at Williamson Stadium on Homecoming.


    Bring the energy. Wear your orange and black. And let’s make some noise.

  • Concert - 8:00pm

    Location: Student Center Parking Lot


    County Wide—the Southern rock band that’s toured with artists like Charlie Daniels, Hank Jr., and Chris Stapleton—takes the stage for an electric, high-energy show to close out an unforgettable day.


    Bring your lawn chairs, grab something from the food trucks, and settle in for a night of live music.

  • Football Alumni Cookout - 8:00pm

    After the final whistle, all football alumni are invited to reconnect and refuel at a post-scrimmage cookout. Share memories, meet today’s team, and enjoy good food with your gridiron family.

  • Fireworks Show - 10:00pm

    Location: Student Center Parking lot


    Cap off an unforgettable Homecoming weekend with a spectacular fireworks show lighting up the Barbourville sky. 


    Bring you friends, family, and lawn chairs - we'll see you under the sky.

REGISTER NOW

ALUMNI HEADQUARTERS

Location: Lower-Level Student Center
Friday:
 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM & 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Saturday:
 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM


Swing by to check in, grab your name badge, score some free Union swag, and pick up a campus map and full Homecoming schedule. Enjoy refreshments courtesy of the Alumni Office while you're there — it's the perfect place to reconnect and refuel.



Can’t make it during registration hours? No problem! Just scan one of the QR code signs posted across campus to check in online anytime and let us know you’ve arrived.


Once registration opens visit the Who’s Coming page to see the full list of Homecoming registrants.