The Epic Return: An Unforgettable Homecoming

By: Kiara Green | November 4, 2021

Last week, thousands of alums made their way back to Tallahassee for the “epic return” of Florida A&M University’s homecoming. The streets of the city were filled with people every day of the week.

After being forced to cancel homecoming in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic, FAMU made up for it this year. Students were highly pleased with the outcome of the festivities. Andre Williams, a student at FAMU, describes his homecoming experience as “unforgettable” and said he would relive it if he could.

“This was the most fun I’ve had in a long time. I was upset that we couldn’t have one last year, but I think this one tops any other homecoming experience I’ve ever had,” said Williams.

The university hosted several events for homecoming attendees. These events included the housing step show, fashion show, Greek step show, pep rally and the homecoming concert to name a few. The revealing of the new title of the amphitheater took place as well, which is now called the Will Packer Performing Arts Amphitheater.

In 1996, Packer graduated from FAMU with a degree in electrical engineering and is one of the university’s celebrated alums. He has created quite a name for himself throughout his career as he has produced more than ten No.1 films. Packer, along with comedian Kevin Hart, made his way to the home of the Rattlers to be a part of the unveiling of the new amphitheater.

Many other celebrities made their way to campus for the “epic return” of FAMU’s homecoming. R&B singer Journee, rapper Bobby Fishscale, and comedians Desi Banks and Pretty Vee were all in attendance. Banks and Vee hosted the comedy show that took place in Al Lawson Center. Vee, who graduated from Saint Augustine’s University, was excited to be on “the Hill” with other Historically Black College & University students.

“I went to an HBCU, so it feels like home. The culture, the environment, the people—I feel welcomed, and I am excited,” says Vee.

Not only did the students, alumni, and celebrities enjoy the homecoming festivities, but the professors of FAMU did as well. Professor Chandra Lanier says she had a great time, describing the week as “homecoming on steroids.”

“I had a great time! This was my first homecoming and it was huge. There was good food, and it was just a great time overall,” said Lanier.

To many, this was FAMU’s best homecoming thus far. Will 2022 be able to top this one? We’ll have to wait and see.

To learn more about The Epic Return, you can visit www.HomecomingatFAMU.com.