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Homecoming and Family Weekend 2024

Sept. 27-29, 2024

Join us for Saint Louis University's 2024 Homecoming and Family Weekend, held the last full weekend in September. 

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More than 5,000 SLU community members registered for SLU's 2023 Homecoming and Family Weekend, making it one of the largest events of its kind in recent campus history. Building on last year's success, we're planning one of the most exciting campus weekends ever.

Register for Homecoming and Family Weekend

2024 Homecoming and Family Weekend Schedule

Please see below for events we're planning for Saint Louis University's Homecoming and Family Weekend. This schedule does not include private and invitation-only events.

Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024

Women's Soccer Game vs. Loyola Chicago

7 p.m.
Hermann Stadium

Cheer on the Billikens at the first soccer game of 2024 Homecoming and Family Weekend!
 • Those who register for the game will pick up their complimentary game tickets at the game. Current students will present their student ID to enter the game and do not need a game ticket, but do need to register to attend. 
 • Recommended parking: Olive Compton Garage

 

Friday, Sept. 27, 2024

Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing White Coat Ceremony

2-5 p.m.
St. Francis Xavier College Church
Busch Student Center, Saint Louis Room (room 300)

The School of Nursing will host our annual White Coat Ceremony. During this ceremony, the sophomore nursing students are “coated” by their faculty members. This honored ceremony marks the student’s transition to clinical education. 

  • After the ceremony, a reception will occur in the Busch Student Center, Saint Louis Room
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

Schedule:

  • 2 p.m.: ceremony at St. Francis Xavier College Church
  • 3 p.m.: reception at Busch Student Center, Saint Louis Room

Homecoming Alumni Family Visit

3-5 p.m.
Queen’s Daughters Hall, New Student Visit Center 

Join us for an admission presentation and campus tour for children and grandchildren of alumni visiting for Homecoming and Family Weekend.

  • You can register for this event via a separate link in your Homecoming and Family Weekend confirmation email.
  • Recommended parking: Future Billiken lot next to Queen's Daughters Hall 

School of Education 100-Year Anniversary Celebration

​4-6 p.m.
Marquette Field, (lawn across from Fitzgerald Hall) 

$20 per person, proceeds benefit the Excellence and Equity in Education Fund. 

Dean Gary Ritter and the leadership of the School of Education cordially invite alumni and supporters to the 100th Anniversary Kickoff Celebration. Join us as we commemorate a century of excellence in educating educators since 1925. Space is limited, and each attendee is allowed one guest. 

  • Rain location: Fitzgerald Hall lobby 
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

School of Science and Engineering Open House

 ​4-7 p.m.
Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building (ISE)

Tour some of the great lab spaces used by our SLU faculty and students within the engineering, aviation, chemistry, computer science, physics, and earth, environmental and geospatial science programs. Select labs within the ISE, McDonnell Douglas Hall and Oliver Hall will participate in the open house. 

  • Check-in: Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building atrium
  • Attendees will receive the list of participating labs at check-in. 
  • Complimentary hors d'oeuvres will be served.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage

Schedule: 

  • 4 p.m.: Check-in begins 
  • 5 p.m.: Welcome remarks from Dean Gregory Triplett in the ISE Atrium

Parks College Class of 1974 Reunion

​4 - 7 p.m.
Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building (ISE)

Join Parks College classmates from the class of 1974 to celebrate your 50th Golden Billiken reunion, reconnect with classmates, tour the Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building, Oliver Hall, McDonnell Douglas Hall, hear the latest news from SLU's School of Science and Engineering, and more.

  • Hors d'oeuvres, wine, and beer will be provided.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage

Schedule:

  • 4 p.m. Event begins
  • 5 p.m. Remarks by Dean Gregory Triplett, inaugural dean of SLU's School of Science and Engineering
  • This event is linked to the School of Science and Engineering Open House where attendees can tour some of the great labs used by our SLU faculty and students within the engineering, aviation, chemistry, computer science, physics, and earth, environmental and geospatial science programs. Select labs within the ISE, McDonnell Douglas Hall and Oliver Hall will participate in the open house. Attendees will receive the list of participating labs at check-in.

Garden to Table: Celebrating 90 Years of Nutrition and Dietetics at SLU

5- 9 p.m.

SLU Teaching Garden (corner of Compton and Rutger)

$50 per person
$25 per SLU student

Enjoy cocktails and a farm-to-table dining experience in our beautiful teaching garden. The evening will showcase our department's rich history and achievements and acknowledge our graduates' impact over the years.

  • Rain location: Allied Health Building, Doisy College of Health Sciences Multi-purpose Room
  • Attire: Semi-formal  
  • Recommended parking: Hickory East Garage

School of Social Work Alumni and Current Student Meet-Up

​5-7 p.m.
U.S. Bank Plaza and Lawn (located next to Tegeler Hall, across from St. Francis Xavier College Church)

Join us for the School of Social Work Alumni and Current Student Meet-Up, where alumni and current students can connect and share experiences. Enjoy light refreshments and hors d'oeuvres as you mingle and build valuable professional relationships. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your network within our community!

  • Rain location: Tegeler Hall Lobby
  • Light refreshments and hors d'oeuvres will be served.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage

Golden Billiken Dinner (Classes 1974 and  Earlier)

6-9 p.m.

St. Francis Xavier College Church Ballroom

$75 per person
Join classmates from the Class of 1974 for a special evening celebrating your 50th reunion from Saint Louis University. New this year — all 50+ year graduates are invited to celebrate with the Class of 1974 and reconnect with former classmates over live music, dinner and more.

  • Please note that registration is limited for this event and will be on a first-come, first-served basis. 
  • Dinner includes: appetizers, salad, dual entree of filet and salmon with vegetables and dessert
  • Attire: cocktail 
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage, golf cart shuttles will be available to and from Laclede Garage and the ballroom. 

Schedule: 

  • 6 p.m.: Social hour
  • 7 p.m.: Welcome remarks, invocation, and dinner service begins 
  • 9 p.m.: Event concludes 

Billikens Basketball Night 

6:30-8:30 p.m.
Chaifetz Arena 

Billikens Basketball Night will feature the SLU men’s and women’s basketball teams with post-event autographs and photo opportunities.

  • The event is complimentary to attend and does not require a ticket. 
  • Concessions will be available for purchase.
  • Recommended parking: Olive Compton Garage 

University Ambassador and Admission Intern Reunion

7-8:30 p.m.

Queen's Daughters Hall, New Student Visit Center

Welcome back former University ambassadors, Office of Admission interns, and Billiken buddies! If you worked in the admission office anytime between 1995 and now, please join us for a reception in the New Student Visit Center in Queen's Daughters Hall. See old friends and meet new tour guides.

  • Recommended parking: Future Billiken lot next to Queen's Daughters Hall 

Black Alumni Association (BAA) NPHC Past vs. Present Step Show 

7:30-9:30 p.m

Xavier Hall Theatre, Main Stage Theatre

$10 per person
Join the Black Alumni Association Step Show for a fun and celebratory step show competition showcasing the fraternities and sororities of the National Pan-Hellenic Council.

  • If your sorority or fraternity would like to participate in the step show, email erica.mcbride.1@slu.edu.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

Billiken Family Movie Night

8:30-10 p.m., North Campus Quad

Join SLU’s Billiken Parent and Family Association for a movie night on the quad featuring “Inside Out 2.”

  • Rain location: Busch Student Center, room(s) 170-171
  • Attendees are encouraged to bring their own snacks and blankets. 
  • A designated seating area will be provided for those who bring their own chairs.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage
Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024

Cheryl L. Cavallo Hustle for Your Health 5K and Family Fun Walk

7:30-9 a.m.
SLU Medical Center Stadium by the Allied Health Building

Adult pre-registration (before Sept. 23): $20
Adult race day registration: $25
SLU students: $20 at any time
Ages 13-17: $10 at any time
Ages 12 and under: free

Join the Program in Physical Therapy Student Association on the Medical Center Stadium track for a friendly race to support the Cheryl Cavallo Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship supports students participating in health care related domestic or international mission trips.

  • Participants will receive a Hustle for Your Health t-shirt. (Shirts and sizes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note, the t-shirt cannot be picked up before race day.) 
  • Recommended parking: Hickory East Garage 

Schedule:

  • 7:30 a.m.: pre-race registration 
  • 8 a.m.: race begins at the Medical Center Stadium  

Homecoming Pancake Breakfast with Fresh Gatherings Cafe + Farm

8:30-11:30 a.m.
Allied Health Building, Fresh Gatherings Cafe

$15 per person

Join us at Fresh Gatherings Cafe + Farm for a pancake breakfast following the
Program in Physical Therapy Hustle For Your Health 5K and Family Fun Walk for
house-made pancakes with various toppings, breakfast sausage, applewood-smoked bacon and more.

  • Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options will be available. 
  • Drip coffee and juice are included in the ticket price. 
  • A full-service espresso bar will be available to purchase beverages. 

Our Lady's Saturday with the Campion Society

9-10:30 a.m.
Boileau Hall

Join us for a special Mass in the Campion Chapel, followed by an open house with light refreshments. There will be opportunities to explore the recently renovated Catholic Studies Center, where our students move seamlessly between chapel, classroom and common areas. 

  • Light refreshments will be provided.
  • Guests can enter from the front door of Cartier House or the side doors of Boileau.
  • Recommended parking: Boileau Lot

Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing Open House

9 a.m.-Noon
School of Nursing, Main Lobby 


Join us to celebrate our alumni, faculty and staff, current students, and their families, and see our school's resources, services and programs.

  • Light refreshments will be provided. 
  • Recommended parking: Hickory East Parking 

SLU Madrid Reception

​11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Busch Student Center, Room(s) 172-173

¡Bienvenidos! Connect with SLU Madrid staff to learn more about SLU Madrid.  

  • Light refreshments and snacks will be served.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

Schedule: 

  • 11:30 a.m.: formal program and Q&A begins

Legacy Luncheon

11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
St. Francis Xavier College Church, Xavier Grand Ballroom

First-year or new transfer students with a family tie to Saint Louis University, along with their parents, grandparents, or siblings who are SLU alums, are invited to this celebration hosted by the Office of Alumni Engagement. 

  • The entrance is located down the ramp, to the left of St. Francis Xavier College Church. 
  • Attire: casual 
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

Schedule:

  • 11:30 a.m.: check-in will begin
  • 11:45 a.m.: Welcome remarks and invocation begin 

Paint and Sip

11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Busch Student Center, Saint Louis Room (room 300)

$55 per painter

Enjoy a whimsical afternoon as we paint a simplified version of Van Gogh’s Starry Night. Focusing on the beauty of the stars and sky, this painting uses greens, blues and yellows to create a beautiful starry night! Your artist will walk you through the painting step by step; no art experience is required. All ages are welcom. You will leave with a treasured keepsake and precious memories of this experience. 

  • Complimentary soft drinks and snacks will be available, and the bar will have beer and wine for attendees 21 and over to purchase. 
  • Proper identification is required for alcoholic beverages. 
  • Space is limited and will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business Meet the Dean

1-3 p.m. 
Cook Hall, atrium  

Join us for an exclusive opportunity to meet with Jackson Nickerson, Ph.D., the newly appointed Edward Jones Dean of the Richard A. Chaifetz School of Business at SLU. 

  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

Schedule: 

  • 2 p.m.: remarks from Edward Jones Dean Jackson Nickerson 

Spirit of the Billiken Reunion

3-4:30 p.m.
Bannister Alumni House

Saint Louis University’s Office of Alumni Engagement is hosting a reunion for current and past Spirit of the Billiken Award recipients. Meet up with fellow past recipients, explore SLU’s Bannister Alumni House, and enjoy an open bar and complimentary ice cream. 

  • Entry will only be permitted for former award recipients and their guests.
  • Attire: casual 
  • Recommended parking: Bannister House Alumni parking lot 

SLU Law Meet the Dean and Open House

2-4 p.m.
Scott Hall, 12th-floor pavilion 

All SLU Law alumni, Law faculty & staff and Immel Society donors are invited to attend an exclusive opportunity to meet with SLU Law's newest appointed dean, Twinette Johnson, J.D., Ph.D. 

  • Complimentary beer, wine and soda will be served in addition to appetizers. 
  • Recommended parking: The closest parking is paid, on-street parking. Paid parking is also available in the AT&T parking garage located behind Scott Hall

Immel Society members are invited to a private reception from 1-2 p.m. Members will receive a special invitation with more details about the reception. Learn more about the Immel Society.

Campus Trolley Tours

2-5 p.m.
Pickup Location: Laclede Street by archway of Grand Hall 

See what’s new at SLU! Explore North and South Campus in a guided trolley tour, led by SLU student tour guides. See the exciting updates taking place both on campus and in midtown. 

  • Please note, the tours are approximately 30 minutes, and the trolleys will loop consistently from 2-5 p.m.
  • The last shuttle will depart at 4:30 p.m. and return at 5 p.m. Groups will be accommodated on a first come, first served basis.

Black Alumni Association (BAA) Family Reunion

3-5 p.m.
SLUruba — outdoor pools (located outside Simon Rec Center)

$10 per person for attendees 12 years and over

We warmly welcome you to join us for our annual reunion hosted by the Saint Louis University Black Alumni Association. Catch up with alumni and the SLU community. Take a dip in the pool, savor delectable food and enjoy music, laughter and entertainment. 

  • Food will be provided.
  • Rain location: Center for Global Citizenship 
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

BOLD Young Alumni Cornhole Tournament

5-7 p.m.
North Campus Dolphin Pond (located by Grand Hall) 

Join Billikens of the Last Decade (BOLD) in teams of two to show off your bags/cornhole skills — and win prizes! 

  • Participants are asked to consider making a gift of $5 or more at the event. 
  • Don’t have a teammate? We’ll connect you with a player before the event. You will receive more information via email by checking this event's box on the Homecoming and Family Weekend registration form. Registrations for the cornhole tournament will occur on the day of the event on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 

Homecoming and Family Weekend Golf Cart Parade

4:30-5 p.m. 

Starting location: Olive Compton Garage
Ending location: Joseph G. Lipic Clock Tower 

Join us for a beloved tradition before the Homecoming and Family Weekend tailgate and men's soccer game — the University Golf Cart Parade, sponsored by the Student Activities Board (SAB). Watch as departments, student groups and administration unite to showcase creative and exciting golf cart floats. Line the heart of campus to catch the action and celebrate with your SLU family. The parade will begin at the Olive Compton Garage and go through the tailgate, towards the Joseph G. Lipic Clock Tower.

Homecoming and Family Weekend Pregame Celebration

5-7 p.m.
North Campus Quad and surrounding areas

$10 per person

$7 kid's meal (for children 12 and under only)

Following the golf cart parade, join alumni, students, parents, families, faculty and staff for a pregame celebration before the soccer game! Enjoy family-fun activities and live music from local band JAM. 

  • Food will be available for purchase from Gioia’s Deli, owned by SLU alum, Amanda Donley (Law ‘11). 
  • Modifications cannot be made to the selections.
  • For students who prefer to use a meal swipe, please note Grand Hall will be open. 
  • To guarantee a pregame meal, please pre-purchase your meal(s) during the online registration process.
  • Meals are $10 per person and a kid's meal option is available for $7 per child, 12 and under.
  • Pre-purchased meals will be available for pick up at the tailgate from 5 - 6:30 p.m. 
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage

Men's Soccer Game vs. Loyola Chicago and Halftime Fireworks Display

7:30 p.m.
Hermann Stadium

Cheer on your Billikens as they take on Loyola University Chicago. Enjoy the Homecoming and Family Weekend signature halftime fireworks display!

  • Those who register for the game will pick up their complimentary game tickets at check-in. Current students will present their student ID to enter the game, but still need to register.
  • Recommended parking: Laclede Garage or Olive Compton Garage 
Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024

Sweet Send-Off Sponsored by Parent and Family Engagement

10 a.m.-Noon

West Pine Mall, Across from Starbucks

Families, join us for a quick treat before you get on the road. Don't miss this doughnut display!
Recommended parking: Laclede Garage

Homecoming and Family Weekend Catholic Mass

10:30-11:30 a.m.

St. Francis Xavier College Church

Students, families and alumni are invited to the 10:30 a.m. Sunday Catholic Mass, co-sponsored by St. Francis Xavier College Church and Saint Louis University Campus Ministry. All are welcome!
Recommended parking: Laclede Garage

Don't Forget Your 2024 HCFW T-shirt

Blue t-shirt that states Saint Louis University once a billiken always a billiken.

Saint Louis University's official 2024 Homecoming and Family Weekend T-shirt.

We are thrilled to unveil our exclusive 2024 Homecoming and Family Weekend T-shirt, chosen by over a thousand Saint Louis University community members! This year's design features a motto that resonates deeply with everyone at SLU: "Once a Billiken, Always a Billiken."

T-shirts can be ordered via the registration form and picked up on campus when you check in for Homecoming and Family Weekend.

Homecoming and Family Weekend FAQ

What is Homecoming and Family Weekend and who is invited to attend?

With events for all ages and interests, SLU Homecoming and Family Weekend is for you! 

Homecoming and Family Weekend at Saint Louis University is a three-day event that is always held on the last full weekend in September. Cheer on the Billikens at select athletic events throughout the weekend, enjoy a tailgate and take in an annual fireworks display during halftime.

The entire SLU community turns out for Homecoming and Family Weekend. SLU alumni mingle with students, staff and faculty; everyone is welcome to bring their families. Homecoming at Saint Louis University is also "parents weekend" at SLU. All guardians and family members of our current Billikens are invited.

Is Homecoming and Family Weekend free?

There is no cost to register for Homecoming and Family Weekend. However, some events do have a fee associated, which will be noted on the registration form.

Where and how can I register for Homecoming and Family Weekend? What if I need to change my registration?

Registration for Saint Louis University's 2024 Homecoming and Family Weekend opened Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024. You can register here. 

You will receive a confirmation email once you submit your registration. The email will outline what activities you and your guests signed up for. Additionally, a link will be provided in the confirmation email if you need to make any edits to your registration. 

What is the deadline to register for Homecoming and Family Weekend? 

Online registration for Homecoming and Family Weekend will end Monday, Sept. 23, 2024. Opportunities to register onsite will be available, but some events may be sold out.

Do I need to register my guest(s)? 

We ask that everyone in your group who plans to attend Homecoming and Family Weekend is registered, including students. There is a section on the registration page where you can include all your guests.

Do students need to register for Homecoming and Family Weekend?

Students do need to register to attend Saint Louis University Homecoming and Family Weekend activities. If you are a parent registering, please include them among your guests if they have not already registered. 

Where can I find the full schedule of  Homecoming and Family Weekend events?

Events will be listed on the registration website and available in the Homecoming and Family Weekend app, which will go live in the summer of 2024.

What attire is appropriate for Homecoming and Family Weekend?

Attire is casual for the weekend for the most part. Formal wear is recommended for some events, but that will be noted in the event description. We suggest checking the weather before attending to ensure you pack accordingly.

And don't forget to buy your exclusive 2024 Saint Louis University Homecoming and Family Weekend shirt to wear during the event!

Who should I contact if I require disability-related accommodations during Homecoming and Family Weekend? 

Please let us know about any special accommodations you or a guest may require as soon as possible, as we cannot guarantee fulfillment of any on-site requests.

Requests can be made on the registration page (look for a question on this topic) or contact us at hcfw@slu.edu.

Golf cart shuttles will be available throughout the weekend. A limited supply of wheelchairs are available to assist guests to and from activities but are not available to rent and cannot be taken off campus.

Where should I park for Homecoming and Family Weekend?

Complimentary guest parking is available in Laclede Parking Garage and Olive Compton Parking Garage on Friday, Sept. 27 and Saturday, Sept. 28. Parking will also be available in the Hickory East Garage during select events on South Campus. On Sunday, Sept. 29, complimentary guest parking is available in Laclede Parking Garage.

Please note that with many activities and events on SLU’s campus parking may be limited. 

Questions?

Follow the Saint Louis University Office of Alumni Engagement on Facebook, X and Instagram for information on Homecoming and Family Weekend, upcoming events and more.

For questions, please email us at hcfw@slu.edu or parents@slu.edu.