Claflin University’s 2016 Homecoming Includes Concerts, Parade, Celebrity Performances and More
Nov 14, 2016
"Claflin LEADS – A Shared Vision for the 21st Century" is the theme for Claflin University’s 2016 Homecoming which begins November 12 – 20. Thousands of alumni and friends of the University will join students, faculty and staff in celebrating one of the region’s most anticipated events.
Among the highlights of Homecoming events will be a performance by Grammy- winning recording artist Peabo Bryson at the 22nd Annual President's Scholarship Gala on Friday (Nov. 18) at 6 p.m. in Tullis Arena, Jonas T. Kennedy Health and Physical Education Center. Bryson’s top hits include “If Ever You're in My ArmsAgain,” “A Whole New World” and “Tonight I Celebrate My Love.”
The Homecoming celebration culminates with the Founders' Day Convocation on Sunday (Nov. 20) at 4 p.m. in Tullis Arena. Senator John Matthews will be the guest speaker.
The schedule of activities and events starts on Saturday (Nov. 12) with a concert featuring hip-hop artist K-Camp and R&B vocalist Sevyn Streeter at 8 p.m. in Tullis Arena. K-Camp released his debut album “Only Way Is Up” in 2015. He was featured in the XXL Magazine as one of several new artists “who are defining the new wave of hip-hop.” Streeter is a singer and songwriter who has written songs for artists such as Chris Brown, Usher, Toni Braxton, Alicia Keys and Fantasia.
On Sunday (Nov. 13), Zayauna Smith, will be crowned Miss 2016 Homecoming at 3 p.m. in the W.V. Middleton Fine Arts Center. Smith, a junior from Washington, D.C., is majoring in political science and psychology. The Gospel Explosion Concert starts at 6 p.m. with John Lakin and the Claflin D.R.E.A.M. Gospel Choir in Tullis Arena.
The annual Dorm Step Show will be held on Monday (Nov. 14), 6 p.m. in Tullis Arena followed by the traditional Bon Fire and Car Smash.
Claflin’s men’s and women’s basketball teams take center stage on Tuesday (Nov. 15). The Lady Panthers host Elizabeth City at 5:30 p.m. followed by the men’s game against Francis Marion. Both contests will be played in Tullis Arena.
Wednesday’s (Nov. 16) events include the Greek Stroll Off at noon on Panther Plaza; Power Hour worship service in the James and Dorothy Z. Elmore Chapel at 6 p.m. and the Homecoming Comedy Show with Karlous Miller, Chico Bean, Darren Brand and Mr. Bankshot, 8 p.m. in Tullis Arena. The show will be hosted by local comedian Jay Dukes.
The 11th Annual Claflin Golf Tournament at the Orangeburg Country Club begins Thursday’s (Nov. 17) activities. Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. and the competition begins at 10 a.m. The day’s schedule also includes the Alumni Reception and Registration at 4:30 – 7 p.m. at the Visitor’s Center on Magnolia Street; an art exhibit in the Arthur Rose Museum from 5:30 – 7: 30 p.m.; and the Miss Homecoming Fashion Show at 7 p.m. in the W.V. Middleton Fine Arts Center.
Friday (Nov. 18) events begin with the academic receptions from 11 a.m. – noon at various campus locations. The Pep Rally on the Plaza will be held at 1 – 4 p.m. and Casino Night begins at 7 p.m. in the Orange and Maroon Room. The Back in the Day Dance starts at 9 p.m. at The Premiere in Orangeburg.
Saturday (Nov. 19) begins with the Homecoming Day Parade at 9 a.m. The procession starts at Edisto Gardens on Russell Street. More than 80 organizations will be represented including marching bands, decorated floats, campus and community organizations, local celebrities and elected officials.
Orangeburg Mayor and Claflin alumnus Michael Butler ’83 is this year’s Grand Marshall. The parade ends on Magnolia Street at the JTK Health and Physical Education Building.
The Alumni Cookout starts at noon in the Panther Den and tailgating will take place throughout the day on the lawn near the JTK Health and Physical Education Center. The Homecoming Basketball Doubleheader matches the Lady Panthers against Queens College at 1:30 p.m. while the Claflin men face Fayetteville State at 3:30 p.m. The Greek Step Show will be held after the game at 9 p.m. in Tullis Arena and the Orange and Maroon Dance is set for 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. at The Premier.
Claflin’s 2016 Homecoming comes to a close on Sunday (Nov. 20) with the Worship Service at the James and Dorothy Z. Elmore Chapel at 9:30 a.m. followed by the Founders’ Day Convocation at 4 p.m. The Reverend William Dicks Jr.’71 will be the guest speaker for the worship service. Dicks is pastor at several churches in the Hartsville District of The United Methodist Church.
The Worship Service and Founders’ Day Convocation are free and open to the public.
For a complete schedule of 2016 Homecoming events and tickets prices, visit www.claflin.edu .