MSU Homecoming provided reasons for Eagles to celebrate
Morehead State University students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends once again gathered at the “light to the mountains” to celebrate as one Eagle family during this year's Homecoming celebration.
“Homecoming at Morehead State is more than a series of events, it is a celebration of people and pride,” said Allison Caudill (Class of 2005, 2009), vice president for University Advancement. “This year, our Eagle community returned to campus in record numbers, filling every corner with energy and excitement. Alumni bring a spirit that inspires us all and reminds current students that the MSU experience isn’t just four years, it’s a lifetime connection.”
Homecoming festivities began with a lively campus pep rally on University Boulevard on Wednesday, Oct. 15. The excitement continued Thursday, Oct. 16, when MSU and the community came together for the annual Homecoming parade in downtown Morehead. One of MSU’s most famous alumni, Super Bowl-winning New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (Class of 2015), served as the parade’s grand marshal.
On Friday, Oct. 17, Morehead State honored Eagles past and present while celebrating as MSU’s campus revitalization continues to take shape.
The morning began with an open house in the recently renovated Camden-Carroll Library, showcasing the updated spaces. Following that, the annual Memorial Brick Ceremony was held to honor faculty and staff who passed away within the last year. The event took place at the Memorial Plaza near the Little Bell Tower, providing a meaningful space for reflection and remembrance.
The University dedicated the newly named Dr. Sue Luckey Ballrooms in the Adron Doran University Center (ADUC). The ballrooms, which recently received an upgrade with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, will serve as a premier space for campus events. The dedication honored Dr. Luckey’s decades of service, leadership, and philanthropic commitment to Morehead State.
For the second consecutive year, Morehead State hosted two groundbreaking ceremonies, reaffirming its commitment to campus revitalization and growth. This year’s projects include a new Multidisciplinary Academic Building and a second new residence hall. Construction on both projects is projected to be completed by in 2027.
On Friday evening, Morehead State recognized the newest members of the Alumni Hall of Fame and other award recipients, including the Founders Award for University Service. The newest Alumni Hall of Fame members are:
- Juan Dontrese Brown (Class of 1999)
- Ted Docks (Class of 1998, 2002)
- Pat Petrillo (Class of 1983, 1984)
The Founders Award for University Service was awarded to Wayne Martin (Class of 1968, 1972).
Recipients of the 2025 Alumni Awards are:
- Notable Alumni Award – Steven Middleton (Class of 2004, 2008)
- Rising Eagle Award – Colby Birkes (Class of 2020)
- Eagle Spirit Award – Steven "Preppy" Engels (Class of 1977)
See photos from Wednesday through Friday, Oct. 15-17
On Saturday, Oct. 18, Eagles gathered for the official commemoration of the newly named Phil Simms Stadium, honoring one of MSU’s most legendary alumni. The stadium was named to recognize Simms’ remarkable career as a standout quarterback at Morehead State before becoming a Super Bowl-winning quarterback for the New York Giants, an NFL commentator and celebrated figure in professional football.
“Naming our football stadium after Phil Simms is an incredible moment in Morehead State history,” said Kelly Wells (Class of 1995), director of athletics. “Phil’s legacy as a Super Bowl MVP and proud Eagle represents the very best of our program. This dedication not only honors his achievements but also inspires current and future student athletes to dream big and work hard.”
See photos from the Phil Simms Stadium dedication ceremony
Following the dedication, fans enjoyed a spirited tailgate filled with food, music, and Eagle pride before packing the stadium to watch MSU Football claim an exciting 23-21 victory over Marist with a last-second field goal.
During halftime, Mila Layne Shearer, a senior from Hebron, and Ben Piscopink, a senior from Ripley, Ohio, were crowned as this year's Homecoming Queen and King.
See photos from Saturday, Oct. 18
Morehead State’s volleyball and soccer student-athletes also had strong showings during Homecoming week. On Thursday and Friday, Oct. 16 and 17, the MSU Volleyball triumphed over Tennessee Tech with a pair of victories (3-1 and 3-0, respectively). The MSU Soccer team also battled with Southern Illinois University Edwardsville to a tie (0-0) on Sunday, Oct. 19, at the MSU Soccer Field.
Save the date for Morehead State's 2026 Homecoming Oct. 22-24, 2026. For more information, visit alumni.moreheadstate.edu/homecoming or contact the Office of Alumni Relations & Development at 606-783-2033 or alumni@moreheadstate.edu.
