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Homecoming — A beautiful day that represents more than just a day off from class, but rather, a University of Florida holiday filled with so many age-old traditions, it makes you proud to bleed orange and blue. From Soulfest to Gator Growl, UF Homecoming traditions delight in the diverse culture of our university and our Gainesville community, uniting everyone under the same idea: It’s Great to be a Florida Gator.
This week kicked off with Soulfest on Sunday, a live show that showcases diverse talent and artistic creations from members of our UF and Gainesville communities, along with hosting Multicultural Greek performances, dance teams, musicians and singers. There truly is no limit on the expressions of creativity and inventiveness — something highly valued in this place we call home.
From the pageant that recognizes outstanding Gators to the Gator Gallop, a two-mile homecoming fun run, and the Homecoming Festival, a family-friendly carnival-style event, there are events for past, present and future Gators to enjoy during Homecoming week. Closing out Friday evening will be Gator Growl, the most iconic event of the school year and a UF tradition started more than 90 years ago. What began as “Dad’s Day” and “Friday night pep-rally,” Gator Growl’s history is deeply rooted in the beginnings of UF, much like the College of Education.
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While the entire Gainesville community partakes in these traditions, the UF College of Education has its own unique traditions. Arguably the best traditions — although we could be biased.
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During the fall semester, Norman Lawn is a prime location to gather among friends, families and fellow Gators before a football game. We’re located just far enough off campus that you can escape game-day traffic, but close enough to walk to the stadium when it’s time for kick-off.
When it’s time for homecoming, the COE has a long-standing tradition of going all in for the parade. From the very beginning of homecoming festivities, EduGators have been known to go big or go home. What college would create a huge wooden Gator controlled by students? The COE, that’s who. Our education-themed floats in the homecoming parades are full of spirit. I guess you could say we get it from our many hours of creating unique, crafty and colorful classroom designs *hair flip*.
The Gators are not the only ones celebrating a homecoming, though. We EduGators are celebrating our own homecoming. The rehabilitation of historic Norman Hall is nearly complete and classes have returned to its space in full force. Students are not just exploring the renovated building but have found their home in the new study spaces.
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Although it doesn’t take place during homecoming, each year the COE welcomes back alumni for the EduGator Tailgate. Now everyone tailgates, but not everyone has an EduGator Tailgate. It’s special. The aroma of catered food among the crisp fall air (to be clear, a Florida fall), engulfs the alumni, faculty and friends that share the same passion for UF and education. From old Gators to new, decorated in orange and blue, EduGators form a small community to talk, laugh, reminisce and cheer the Gators on to victory.
While we all have some major wins to celebrate this fall (can you say top 7 public university?), we are excited to cheer on the Gators against Auburn University and keep our winning streak alive. This time last year, the Gators had one loss and we were a top 8 public university. Clearly we’re doing something right.
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No matter if you are at UF or beyond Gainesville during this year’s homecoming, this week is rooted in a legacy that represents generations of Gators and EduGators that come alive through tradition and spirit.
Oh, also, BEAT AUBURN!
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