At Shippensburg University, homecoming is a significant event to many members of the SU family. Alumni are able to connect with current students’ excitement and school spirit, and some students are able to showcase their love for Shippensburg in a larger way. The Homecoming Royalty title is both an honor and a staple for the season, and for these students, a place on the Homecoming Court is much more than just a nomination. 

“I personally value Homecoming Court and its role within the history of the university as it provides ways to both give back to our local community, while also showing Raider Pride as undergraduate chapters come to a close,” said Tyler Rock, the 2018 Homecoming King.

The opportunity to be a part of the Shippensburg University Homecoming Court is given to a select group of hardworking and passionate students each year.

Qualifying for Homecoming Court is no small feat. In order to join the ranks, students must submit a 200–350 word bio about themselves, showcasing parts of their SU journey, as well as how they feel they make an impact on the campus community. Even after students make it into the running, they still have much more to complete in order to achieve the coveted title. After their initial work, the students need to start making a name for themselves by campaigning on campus in order to drum up support for their nomination. Following campaigns, voting opens for 48 hours, and then it’s all said and done. 

After the votes have been cast, the students that have been chosen for the Homecoming Court have even more work ahead of them. Finalists go through a month of fundraising and community service as they work towards becoming Homecoming Royalty, and during this time, truly focus on giving back and showing they are driven. As if this is not rigorous enough, the students then have to be interviewed by a committee of four graduate students. This is students’ final chance to prove themselves as worthy of the homecoming crown.

The 2021 Homecoming Court is made up of a lively and enthusiastic group of students. This year, Hayley Anderson, Hunter Gross, Clarence Johnson III, Alycia LaLuz, David Maldonado and Jordan Newsome-Little are a part of the court, as well as Robert Rainey, Julie Rehberg, Lindsey Spector and Abdul Omar Tucker. 

Every student on court is passionate about their process in different ways. For some, it’s about setting an example. David Maldonado believes that the bonds one makes with peers is important, and said, “I wanted to run for homecoming court because I want other transfer and non-traditional students to feel like they too can do this!” 

For others, it’s about their love for the community. Lindsey Spector said, “I wanted to run for homecoming court because of my love and dedication to Shippensburg University over the past four years here. Homecoming court is a great way to give back to the community which is a big passion of mine as well!” Everyone on the court is incredibly grateful as well and want to make positive changes with their platform. 

Alycia Laluz said, “It’s all about giving back and there are so many creative outlets we as a court can do and I’m super excited to see it all come together.” 

The passion and promise of the students at Shippensburg University is what makes running for Homecoming Court such a rewarding and memorable experience for everyone involved. 

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