Today@Sam Article

SHSU Homecoming: 100 Years Of Orange And White

Sept. 13, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Campbell Atkins

While all homecoming events are cherished occasions in the Bearkat community, Sam Houston State University is preparing a particularly colorful celebration for 2024. This fall marks the 100th anniversary of the university declaring orange and white as its official colors, spawning a theme that truly embodies a tradition of spirit and excellence.

Even though SHSU celebrated its first homecoming event in 1910, the official colors were not adopted until January of 1924. Prior to that year, the school was represented by the colors yellow and white, according to research from University Archivist Barbara Kievit-Mason.

When the school changed its name from Sam Houston Normal Institute (SHNI) to Sam Houston State Teachers College in 1923, former University President Harry F. Estill and the Athletic Council decided that a change of colors was in order.

The council appointed a number of faculty members, including English professor Earl Huffor, to a new Color Committee. On Jan. 8, 1924, Huffor announced to the council that the committee had officially decided on deep orange and white as the college’s new official colors.

SHNI’s Alumni Association was formed in May of 1893, 14 years after the institute itself. For many years, this organization would meet on Alumni Day, which was held in conjunction with commencement in late May. After World War I and well into the 1930s, the reunion event came to be associated with Armistice Day (November 11). The rise in popularity of collegiate athletics, particularly football, led to homecoming games and associated activities such as parades and banquets. Since the late 1930s, special award presentations, as well as new facility dedications, have long been linked with these special times of alumni visitation.

“Being a Bearkat is more than just a title, it’s a way of life filled with pride and passion,” said Breanna Dotson, director of Campus Activities and Traditions. “We hope to see each and every Bearkat engaged and connected with this SHSU tradition.”

Bearkats young and old will have numerous opportunities to do just that this year with a slew of events throughout the week.

All fans are welcome to attend Bearkat Alley, the university's central tailgating destination, in the Bowers Stadium parking lot prior to Saturday's homecoming football matchup against New Mexico State. This unparalleled gameday experience unites multiple organizations across campus, as well as the Huntsville community, in a festive celebration for all. The free event begins at 3 p.m., three hours before the 6 p.m. kickoff. 

Current students can showcase their pride and camaraderie through the Organization Spirit Competition, which allows each group a chance to earn money for their student organization. Competing groups can raise points by completing a service project, donating cans to the SHSU Food Pantry and attending the week’s various events. The first-place organization will receive $1,000 with second place earning $500 and third place $250.

Self-designed banners from competing organizations will hang throughout the Lowman Student Center throughout homecoming week.

University administrators, faculty and staff can also get in on the fun with the Office Decorating Competition, which allows each individual office on any of SHSU’s campuses to showcase their Bearkat spirit and share it with the community. The winner of this competition will earn a free breakfast, hosted by SHSU Hospitality, as well as a plaque to hang in their office.

This year also features the return of the Sam Jam Carnival, located at the Holleman Field Complex, on Tuesday, as well as the annual Homecoming Parade on Thursday. During halftime of Saturday's football game, the 2024 Homecoming Court members will be introduced as well as the eight newest members of the Bearkat’s athletic Hall-of-Honor.

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