WVU Tech celebrates second Homecoming on Beckley campus [Beckley Register Herald]
Oct 7, 2018
WVU Tech’s annual Homecoming parade was hosted for the second year Saturday on the Beckley campus, and according to surround residents, it’s where it belongs.
“Let’s Go, Golden Bears!,” the WVU Tech cheerleaders shouted as they led the way for the parade down South Kanawha Street, walking proudly with the Golden Bear mascot, Monty.
Husband and wife Mike and Shannon Dickerson stood with pride on the sidewalk, watching the parade. They were their to show their support for their daughter, who is a freshman at WVU Tech and also plays on the softball team.
Mike, a 1995 alumni of WVU Tech, recalled when the institution was on the Montgomery campus and although he has fond memories, he claimed the Beckley campus is a much better fit.
“It’s such a beautiful campus, and offers so much more for the students. There are more facilities, more things to do, and I think Homecoming has brought people together to realize that,” Mike said.
His wife, Shannon, agreed.
“Homecoming is special. It’s something everyone can come and rally around, and still celebrate the move to Beckley,” she said. “It’s a form of support.”
While candy was thrown every which way, the WVU Tech Homecoming Court waved to those lining the streets, decked out in their blue and gold. Children from the Raleigh County Head Start program also took part in the parade, and sported “Future Golden Bear” T-shirts.
Keith Stevens, a Senior at WVU Tech, stood alongside his girlfriend, Kirsty Lawrence, taking in the feel of Homecoming.
“Homecoming has been really fun this year,” he said. “When I first started going to Tech it was still in Montgomery, but here, there’s a lot more to do, and it’s made this week much more fun.
“And, not to mention, there are so many more places to eat at here.”
Lawrence, also a student at WVU Tech, said she’s always enjoyed Homecoming festivities, but it’s more special this year.
“It just feels more at home, like this was where it was meant to be.”