September 27, 2004

SIU alumni invited to celebrate at Big Tent

by Greg Scott

CARBONDALE, Ill. - - Alumni, students, and friends of Southern Illinois University Carbondale are invited to enjoy the 20th annual pregame Homecoming Celebration on Saturday, Oct. 2, in the alumni "Big Tent" east of McAndrew Stadium on the SIUC campus.

The SIU Alumni Association and SIUC's colleges are hosting the event, sponsored by Egyptian Electric Cooperative, A Touchstone Energy Cooperative. The tent opens at 10:30 a.m., following the annual Homecoming parade in downtown Carbondale and prior to SIUC's football game against Northern Iowa University at 1:30 p.m.

This year's Homecoming theme is "Saluki Celebration." Activities under the Alumni "Big Tent" will include music, college displays and door prizes, complimentary lunch and beverages. Several University dignitaries and guests also will be in attendance.

"Our Homecoming brings various constituencies of the University and Carbondale communities together on one day," says Tuesday Ashner, director of SIU alumni campus programs. "This is an event that our alumni, students, and community friends look forward to. The success of our football team enhances the enthusiasm and atmosphere even more."

The event is made possible by SIU Alumni Association membership dues. Membership information will be available at the celebration. Annual membership is $40 and life membership is $500, with installment plans available. Students can join the organization for a $15 annual fee. Alumni, students and friends of the University are eligible to join the SIU Alumni Association.

For more information on membership or Homecoming festivities, please contact the SIU Alumni Association at 618/453-2408.