SEMO gears up for Homecoming 2025 and presidential inauguration celebration

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Southeast Missouri State University is preparing for Homecoming 2025, a weekend packed with tradition, celebration, and a historic milestone: the inauguration of SEMO President Brad Hodson.

Themed “Where Fearless Begins,” this year’s Homecoming features a mix of campus events designed to reconnect alumni, engage students, and showcase SEMO’s academic and community spirit.

The celebration begins Monday, Oct. 13, with a Retired Faculty and Staff Kickoff Brunch at the Wehking Alumni Center and the launch of the Fearless Challenge, a weeklong series of campus activities.

On Thursday, Oct. 16, the university will host its Academic Showcase, giving visitors a chance to explore SEMO’s colleges and programs through hands-on demonstrations, lab tours, and interactive sessions with faculty and alumni. Highlights include dome tours, live arts performances, and showcases across business, education, science, and the arts.

Friday, Oct. 17, features the Fearless Fest Block Party from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Normal Street, followed by the presidential inauguration at 2 p.m. inside the Show Me Center. The evening concludes with the Copper Dome Inauguration Dinner, a signature SEMO tradition honoring alumni and celebrating the university’s future.

Saturday, Oct. 18, kicks off with an Alumni Breakfast and 50-year Class of 1975 Reunion at the Wehking Alumni Center. The Homecoming Parade steps off at 9:30 a.m. along Broadway Street, followed by an Alumni Tailgate at 11 a.m. and the Homecoming football game at 2 p.m. as the Redhawks take on Eastern Illinois at Houck Field.

University officials say the weekend will offer opportunities for alumni to reconnect, celebrate the university’s growth, and experience the next chapter of SEMO history.

For a full schedule of events, lodging information, and ticket reservations, visit Homecoming | SEMO.