"In the fall of 2021, we looked forward to a "return to normal" with our alumni homecoming tailgate in November. Just as we prepared to launch registration, the COVID-19 delta variant surged. Once again, we decided to halt in-person alumni association-sponsored gatherings.
As the football season progressed, Tar Heel fans returned to campus on game days, gathering in their own groups for pregame festivities. Although we would not have a tailgate on campus, we wanted to spread school spirit and engage with our alumni.
We decided to meet them at their smaller group gatherings during homecoming instead of inviting them to join us at a larger tailgate. Beep, beep…the Swag Wagon was born. We had boxes of swag from previous years that we could give away, along with a few 2021 homecoming items we ordered. After two hours touring campus, our wagon was empty and hearts were filled with Tar Heel cheer."
From the Judges
The alumni swag wagon is a great, simple pivot that took very little additional time and resources. UNC was able to share extra swag and bring smiles to the faces of alumni in a safe environment. We thought this was one of the most fun initiatives.
