Dear Retrievers,
It's time to get excited! Homecoming 2025 is just around the corner, and we can't wait to see campus come alive with Retriever fever! This is our favorite time of year, when we all come together—alumni, faculty, staff, students, families, and neighbors—to celebrate what it means to be a Retriever. The energy on campus during Homecoming is absolutely unmatched!
This year's Homecoming festivities kick off with our annual student org kickball tournament and bonfire on Sunday, October 5, and continue with a full week of incredible events through Sunday, October 12. We've been working hard to create a schedule that truly has something for everyone, whether you're looking to reconnect with old friends, enjoy some fun and games, or just want another excuse to show off your Retriever pride.
Visit the Homecoming website for the full schedule, but here’s a sneak peek at some of the highlights we have planned:
- Homecoming Bonfire (October 5): Start the week by building your Retriever spirit.
- Staff and Faculty Social (October 8): Socialize with colleagues and enjoy some delicious appetizers.
- Retriever Madness (October 9): Cheer on our student-athletes and campus community and enjoy some tasty snacks and beverages!
- GRIT-X Talks and Reception (October 9): Hear from some of UMBC’s most intriguing faculty, staff, and alumni minds. View this year’s speakers at research.umbc.edu/grit-x.
- Retriever Spotlight in the Skylight (October 10): Celebrate the artistic talents of our alumni community in this brand new event.
- Homecoming Carnival (October 10 – 11): Enjoy rides, games, and fun for all ages.
- Retriever 5K and Family Fun Run (October 11): Register by September 19 to receive a commemorative t-shirt and medal.
- Taste of Maryland Crab Feast (October 11): Feast at the Taste of Maryland, which includes all your Maryland favorites—even if you don't eat crabs! Vegetarian and vegan options will be available.
- Homecoming Soccer Games (October 11 – 12): Cheer on men’s soccer as they take on New Hampshire Saturday, October 11, at 7 p.m. Women’s soccer hosts Vermont the next day, Sunday, October 12, at 12 p.m. There’s a replica jersey giveaway for the first 300 fans!
This is just a small sample of the excitement we have planned for you. Be sure to visit the Homecoming website for the full schedule of events. I can't wait to see you all at Homecoming!
Go Retrievers!
Homecoming Steering Committee
Stanyell Bruce
Director of Alumni Engagement
Candace Doane
Acting Senior Director of Campus Life Student Engagement
Jen Dress
Special Assistant to the Vice President for Student Affairs
Bobby Lubaszewski ’10, M.P.S. ’23
Director of Alumni and Development Communications and Marketing
Kelly Peloquin
Associate Athletic Director of Facilities and Event Management
Simon Reilly
Acting Director of Event and Conference Services
Laura Schraven
Director of Student Affairs Communications and Marketing
Jess Wyatt
Associate Director of Alumni Engagement