From the Nominator

"Charged with taking Emory University’s Homecoming and Reunion Weekend to the next level, this year’s program featured over 70 university-wide events for alumni, students, faculty, staff, and families. The program included a reimagined alumni reunion party for reconnection across class years and affinities, a student-alumni talent show, family weekend, parent stewardship events, a campus parade and tours, athletic events, school and affinity-based gatherings, as well as an innovative food and music festival concept that shattered all registration, attendance, and satisfaction metrics and resulted in a significant increase in attendee philanthropy.      

Prior to COVID-19, Emory Homecoming centered around a loosely connected sequence of weekend activities with a single concert as the featured draw. This year, there was strong coordination across the university around events, streamlined registration, and an elevated festival experience for all audiences with a renewed focus on current student and community-wide engagement. New events were added, and existing activities were enhanced and integrated into a week of activities.     

By the time several thousand enjoyed the inaugural food and music festival, registering a 90 percent satisfaction rating, there was a feeling in the air that Emory found the right formula to attract and engage an audience on a fall Saturday without a traditional college football offering. Emory Homecoming was back on the map as a destination event for alumni and the greater university community and a must-attend for students who will want to return after graduation to continue to enjoy this marquee fall experience."

From the Judges

The panel felt this entry was a strong example of how to create a successful homecoming or reunion that is not centered around an athletic event. The judges were particularly impressed with the data points and outcomes achieved. Marketing materials were clear and concise, especially given the complexity of the weekend.