Centennial homecoming: 100 years, always WT

WTAMU Centennial ornaments are on sale in the Book Store. Photo by Frankie Sanchez.

During the hardships of World War II, professors and students from WTAMU went off to battle. Money became significantly harder to attain. Rationing was life.

As Dr. Marty Kulhman, associate professor of history, explains in his book “Always WT”, “Homecoming became a casualty of war in 1943-1944 as the college canceled the event…to conserve resources.”

At one point in WT’s history, this celebration looked bleak, and the university’s morale was low. However, almost seven decades later, this year marks the 100th year of WT’s tradition of success. A homecoming week like none before will reflect achievements.

Tim Vela, student body president, worked alongside students and faculty created this week’s itinerary. He served with the standing committee to bring in some big names for the centennial homecoming. “Homecoming is a stressful time,” Vela said. “There are a lot of things that have to happen. We basically started planning this event at the end of last
year‘s celebration.”

Quietdrive, an ‘up-and-coming’ band, kick-started 2009 by taking their style of music abroad for U.S. soldiers. Soon after, they wanted to visit U.S. high schools and colleges while touring and talk to music students about their experiences. Their tour includes a stop at WT this Friday as they perform at the bonfire.

“They are my kind of band,” Vela said. “I think collegiate students will be able to connect with them very well.”

Still, Quietdrive is only one day of homecoming week. Oct. 4 the university had a contest referred to as Maroon Madness. Students who participated dressed up in as much maroon as possible to impress judges.

“We needed to start the week off right,” Vela said, “So, this contest is to help instill Buffalo pride.”

Tuesday, at 5 p.m. in the Jack B. Kelley Student Center, WT is sponsoring a Paper Football Tournament. Everybody is invited to attend.

Wednesday at 5 p.m., by the Bonfire site, there will be a tractor pull event for students. Katie Gustainis, senior speech communication major, will be attending her first pull this year as she enjoys this week’s activities.

“I’m really excited to go,” Gustainis said. “Four years later, I am going to finally figure out the tractor pull.”

Thursday at 5 p.m. in the First United Bank Center, Somaly Mam will be at convocation.

While convocation targets freshmen, the study body is encouraged to attend. At 6 p.m. the alumni will have a ‘gathering’ at the Golden Light Cantina. At 7 p.m. the Volleyball team will be playing Cameron at “The Box.”
And around midnight, at the bonfire site, the Residence Hall Association (RHA) will be having a Midnight Weenie Roast.

“RHA does a lot for homecoming,” Gustainis said. “The Roast will be a good event to attend. It’s a great opportunity to meet people.”

Friday is the traditional Pigskin Revue. All of the homecoming queen and king nominees will take center stage as the top three contestants are selected. Right after the Pigskin Revue, Dr. O’Brien, the University president, Vela, and other student government officials will lead the torch procession to the bonfire. Once the bonfire is lit, Quietdrive will be hosting the concert.

“It will be an exciting time,” Vela said.

On Saturday at 6 p.m. at Kimbrough Memorial Stadium, the homecoming game against Tarleton State will take place. Last year, the Buffs tackled the Texans into submission, and this year they hope to score another victory.