Your 2024 Homecoming Weekend Highlights
Homecoming 2024 was an unforgettable celebration that brought together hundreds of first-year students enjoying their inaugural festivities alongside distinguished alumni recognized for their commitment to The University of Toledo and the community over an exciting 48 hours.
Homecoming Gala: An Evening of Reflection and Celebration
The 2024 Homecoming Gala offered a heartfelt tribute to the profound impact the University has had on so many lives. Keynote speaker Dr. Kevin Boyce ’95, a proud alumnus and Franklin County Commissioner, shared his inspiring journey, emphasizing the transformative power of education. The Alumni Association awarded their prestigious Gold T Award to Jeffrey Traudt ’79 and Daniel J. Saevig Blue T Award to Carol Thomas ’94.
View the complete list of 2024 award honorees.
The gala concluded with remarks from Traudt and William Pierce, associate vice president of alumni engagement and annual giving, who shared gratitude to those who helped make the event a success, reinforcing the importance of alumni support and community connections.
Rocket Romance: A Celebration of Love
The second annual Rocket Romance event was a touching occasion, bringing over 30 couples together beneath the iconic belltower to renew their vows and share their love stories. The atmosphere was filled with joy and nostalgia as they celebrated their journeys, reminiscing about the special moments that led them to this cherished place.
Homecoming Parade: A Festive Tradition
On Saturday morning, the Edward C. and Helen G. Schmakel Homecoming Parade made its way through the Old Orchard neighborhood, culminating back on campus. After the parade, the Alumni Association threw a lively Pregame Party with delicious food, refreshing drinks, the pep band, and live music by Rick Flores, all accompanied by the free-flowing Rocket Fuel cocktails.
Homecoming Game: A Thrilling Victory
The 94th Homecoming game showcased an exciting matchup between the Toledo Rockets and the Miami RedHawks at Glass Bowl Stadium. The Rockets dominated the game, leading the way to a 30-20 victory in front of over 25,000 enthusiastic fans. This rematch of last year’s MAC Championship Game highlighted Toledo’s strength, racking up 396 yards of total offense while limiting Miami to 350 yards. Special teams played a crucial role as well, with a blocked punt, a 33-yard return, and impressive field goals of 47 and 48 yards.
Virtual 5K: Connecting Rockets Worldwide
In the lead-up to Homecoming, the Alumni Association organized a virtual 5K, allowing alumni and Rocket fans from around the world to join in. Over 80 individuals participated from September 22 through Homecoming weekend. Thank you to everyone who submitted results and shared photos, capturing the spirit of camaraderie. Highlights included Tim Hoffman ’89, ’90, ’97, and his mother posing during their run in Perrysburg, OH, and David and Laura ’16 Fisk enjoying a picturesque backdrop of downtown Toledo with their dogs.
Homecoming 2024 truly exemplified the strength of the Rocket community, celebrating achievements, love and lasting connections.