Well-known for his character “Kevin” on the Emmy-winning television series “The Office,” actor Brian Baumgartner ’95 is making the trip back to SMU for Homecoming weekend.
SMU celebrates the Year of the Faculty during 2014 Homecoming Nov. 13-16, honoring the contributions of the University’s esteemed faculty members as teachers and researchers. The Homecoming parade theme, “Dynamic Duos: Better Together,” salutes powerful partnerships, including SMU’s relationship with Dallas and the pairing of SMU students and faculty.
Saturday’s events begin with actor and alumnus Brian Baumgartner ’95 leading the traditional Homecoming parade, with tailgating on The Boulevard followed by the traditional football game at Ford Stadium.
> Learn more about Brian Baumgartner from SMU News
Other Homecoming highlights include season openers for the SMU men’s and women’s basketball teams on Friday, Nov. 14. The 8:30 p.m. men’s game vs. Lamar is sold out, but tickets are still available for the 6 p.m. women’s game vs. Northern Colorado. For tickets visit smumustangs.com.
Events at a glance:
• Distinguished Alumni Awards Celebration, 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 13, Main Quad: honoring Mary Brinegar ’69, Frank M. Dunlevy ’71, John F. Harper ’68, and Emerging Leader recipient Alexandra Dillard Lucie ’05.
• Pigskin Revue, 8:15 p.m., Friday, Nov. 14 McFarlin Auditorium: the 81st edition of the annual variety show featuring SMU students in music, dance and comedy acts, with the Mustang Band playing new music as well as old favorites from past revues. Admission is free with an SMU ID or $15 without an SMU ID.
• Tailgating on the Boulevard, 4 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 15, Bishop Boulevard: The Mustang Club Tent, with catering provided by Mi Cocina, will be located at the southeast corner of Bishop and Binkley on Mustang Alley. Adult admission is $10 per person in advance and $15 cash at the tent on game day. Children 8 and under are admitted for free.
• Homecoming Parade, 4:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 15, beginning at SMU Boulevard and Bush Avenue: The 2014 parade will feature iconic duos such as Batman and Robin; Mickey and Minnie; and Clark Kent and Lois Lane. Baumgartner, known for his iconic role as Kevin Malone in the TV series “The Office,” will serve as grand marshal. The new route featuring student floats, bands and entertainment will begin at SMU Boulevard and Bush Avenue. (Parade Map)
Stadium: Cheerleaders and the Mustang Band will lead fans from The Boulevard into Ford Stadium. Halftime will include a performance by the Mustang Band, a check presentation from the SMU reunion classes and crowning of the Homecoming King and Queen. Visit smumustangs.com for tickets.
• All-University Worship, 11 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 16, Perkins Chapel: Join the SMU community at this inspirational service in Perkins Chapel and remember classmates who are no longer with us.
• Centennial Lighting, throughout the weekend: This year’s Homecoming features a new tradition of ceremonial lighting that will extend across campus each evening throughout the weekend. Homecoming 2014 will also mark the debut of the illuminated SMU Mustang featured on SMU’s East Campus Expressway Tower.
• SMU Museum Open Houses, throughout the weekend: Explore world-class art, presidential artifacts, interactive exhibits and library treasures at SMU’s Bridwell Library, Centennial Hall, DeGolyer Library, George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, Heritage Hall and the Meadows Museum. All visits are complimentary during Homecoming except for the Bush Presidential Library and Museum. For tickets to the Bush Library and Museum, visit georgewbushlibrary.smu.edu.
• Reunion Gatherings, throughout the weekend: Reunion events are planned for the classes of ‘69 ’74, ’79, ’84, ’89, ’94, ‘99 ’04 and ’09. The Reunion Weekend kickoff celebration will begin on Friday, Nov. 14. Visit smu.edu/reunions for more information.
SMU Homecoming includes more events for all ages. For the full schedule, visit smu.edu/homecoming.
Written by Ariel Monticure ’15.
