The first official homecoming celebration in UWM’s recent history opens campus doors, recalls happy memories and heralds the future as UWM celebrates the inauguration of its ninth chancellor, Mark Mone, and changes the architecture of its beloved East Side Campus with the public dedication of the new Kenwood Interdisciplinary Research Complex.
It’s all part of UWM Alumni Homecoming Week, Oct. 2-10, and UWM alumni and friends across the ages are invited.
“We have more than eight days of events and alumni from seven decades joining us on Milwaukee’s Eastside for Alumni Homecoming Weekend,” UWM Associate Vice Chancellor of Alumni Relations Adrienne Bass said. “We encourage everyone to join their UWM friends and family for this historic celebration of school spirit, campus pride and great Milwaukee moments.“
Throughout the week, homecoming attendees and guests can enjoy movies in the Union Cinema, visit favorite Eastside establishments and meet up with friends old and new.
Alumni Homecoming Week comes to a festive, fast-paced conclusion with the Panther Prowl 5K, a food truck festival and campus open house, Panther Fandemonium, a Club Football game and UWM Family Weekend. Here’s a day-by-day list of highlights:
Friday, Oct. 2
Inauguration of Chancellor Mark Mone and dedication of the Kenwood Interdisciplinary Research Complex.
Saturday, Oct. 3
“TEDxUWMilwaukee: React Differently” speakers discuss how personal and professional reactions can create waves of unknown size and consequence. Fifteen speakers share their ideas. Purchase tickets.
Men’s soccer faces Valparaiso University, and women’s soccer plays Youngstown State in two important Horizon League matches.
Monday, Oct. 5
Be back on campus by lunchtime for a homecoming pep rally featuring speakers, prizes and more.
Evening events include a campus talent showcase. The Manfred Olson Planetarium hosts a Northern Lights show at 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 6
Browse the Artist Fair and Farmers Market in the Union by day.
In the evening, attend a lecture by UWM Common Read author Jennifer Morales, who will give an inspiring talk on her short story collection “Meet Me Halfway – Milwaukee Stories.”
Wednesday, Oct. 7
Svet the Hip Hop Violinist brings his unique sound to Spaights Plaza, where food and balloon animals will be available. TEDxUWMilwaukee hosts an evening talkback with “React Differently” speakers.
Thursday, Oct. 8
The UWM Jazz Ensemble plays the plaza. Comedians Greg Wilson and Omid Singh keep alumni laughing in their evening show. Trivia is on tap at the Gasthaus.
Friday, Oct. 9
Daytime in the Union, enjoy the 1956 Celebration and its abundance of activities, giveaways, food and fun.
Be sure you have your tickets and your elegant attire ready for the Alu mni Awards Evening at Pier Wisconsin.
Saturday, Oct. 10
Run or walk in the Panther Prowl. Then enjoy the food truck festival.
For a complete events calendar, registration information, accommodations, prices and more visit uwm.edu/homecoming.
