MSU Homecoming Brings Generations of Eagles Together
Homecoming once again transformed Morehead State University's campus into a gathering place for generations of Eagles, bringing together students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends in celebration of their shared connection to MSU.
"Homecoming 2026 was a memorable celebration of Eagle Pride,” said Mikayla Martin (Class of 2021), assistant director of advancement events. “From the excitement of the parade to the residence hall groundbreaking, a kickoff reception and awards ceremony honoring seven outstanding Eagle alumni, and a spirited day of tailgating capped off with an Eagle Football victory, the week showcased the traditions and connections that make Morehead State special to so many!"
MSU Homecoming festivities appropriately kicked off around the Centennial Eagle Statue for the campus pep rally on Tuesday, Oct. 20. The following day, MSU welcomed country hitmaker Chase Matthew and special guest Tyra Madison to campus for The 137 Concert on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in Button Auditorium.
The campus carried that momentum into the annual Homecoming parade in downtown Morehead on Thursday, Oct. 22, followed by an Eagle Pep Rally for current MSU students.
On Friday, Oct. 23, Morehead State celebrated the achievements and lives of Eagles past and present, as well as MSU's continued campus revitalization.
The annual Memorial Brick Ceremony was held to honor faculty and staff who passed away within the last year. This time of remembrance and reflection took place at the Memorial Plaza near the Little Bell Tower.
For the third consecutive year, Morehead State hosted a groundbreaking ceremony, marking another milestone of campus revitalization and growth. This year's ceremony highlighted MSU's third new residence hall at the former site of Butler Hall on Vaughn Drive. Construction is projected to be completed in 2028-29.
On Friday evening, Morehead State recognized the newest members of the Alumni Hall of Fame and other award recipients, including the recipient of the Founders Award for University Service.
The newest Alumni Hall of Fame members are:
The Founders Award for University Service was awarded to Dr. Dan Connell.
Recipients of the 2026 Alumni Awards are:
- Notable Alumni Award – Brooke Westling (Class of 2002)
- Rising Eagle Award – Whittney Allen (Class of 2022)
- Eagle Spirit Award – Bill Baldridge (Class of 1968)
Eagle football fans and supporters enjoyed a spirited tailgate filled with food, music and reconnection before packing the stadium to watch MSU Football claim a rallying 38-31 victory over Stetson.
During halftime, Hope Lanham, a senior from Harrodsburg, and Owen Marcum, a junior from Ashland, were crowned as this year's Homecoming Queen and King.
Save the date for Morehead State's 2027 Homecoming Oct. 21-23, 2027. For more information, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/homecoming or contact the Office of Alumni Relations & Development at 606-783-2033 or alumni@moreheadstate.edu.
