Homecoming activities at Virginia State University

Virginia State University's 2008 Homecoming activities begin Saturday, Oct. 18 and will continue through Oct. 25 as alumni, students, family and friends commemorate the Trojan experience.

Loida N. Lewis, and Carolyn E. Fugett, wife and mother, respectively, of the late VSU alum Reginald F. Lewis, one of the nation's most successful lawyers and entrepreneurs, will serve as parade marshals during the Homecoming Parade on Oct. 25. Lewis, a 1965 graduate, was once listed by Forbes magazine as one of the country's wealthiest business leaders. Parade marshals will promenade from downtown Petersburg to the campus with university and community groups, and the Trojan Explosion Marching Band.

Alumni will reminisce and rekindle friendships on Oct. 24 on the front lawn of Virginia Hall at during the fourth annual "Jazz on the Hill" concert, featuring Plunky & Oneness.

Performers at this year's homecoming concert on Oct. 22 will include artists such as: Slim, from R&B group 112; hip-hop recording artist Rick Ross; and Washington's go-go group, Backyard Band.

For the first time in VSU's homecoming history, former Miss and Mr. VSU will participate in the Kings and Queens' Ball on Oct. 18 to welcome the new Miss and Mr. VSU.

Other homecoming highlights include: the Presidential Scholars Golf Tournament on Oct. 24, a fundraiser to assist entering freshmen with outstanding academic achievements; the Faculty, Staff, and Alumni Variety Show on Oct. 20, showcasing talent in music, dance, and comedy; the Concoction Tour on Oct. 23, where VSU students will battle against Virginia Union University students in modeling, dancing, and DJing; the vendors' bazaar on Oct. 24, where various items and food will be featured along University Avenue; and the university's much-anticipated Pan Hellenic Step Show on Oct. 24.

VSU Trojans will also take on Lincoln University's Lions at the football game on Oct. 25. Homecoming activities will conclude with a dance.

For details about events and ticket information, visit www.vsu.edu.