“I was glad to be back on campus finally,” was a phrase often heard on Saturday as Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College celebrated Homecoming. Last year, the event was truncated to a virtual format because of the pandemic. For alumni, students, faculty and staff, the day had the feeling of family despite the rain. They attended athletic events, experienced good food and ended the day enjoying an outdoor concert in the Butler Classroom.
More than 200 people were on campus, going to various venues throughout the day. Athletic events included an equestrian shows, a women’s soccer match against Ohio Christian University, a women’s volleyball match with Point Park University and a men’s soccer match with Ohio Christian University.
President Dottie L. King, Ph.D., welcomed the attendees, thanking everyone for coming out to enjoy the day, the beautiful campus and the camaraderie. Bon Appetit, the new dining partner at SMWC, provided lunch featuring BBQ and other goodies. Additionally, DJ Jamie Dawson supplied music for the crowd and kids zone, yard games and caricature artist. The equestrian department’s wagon rides around the campus allowed attendees to view some of the College’s historic buildings, new facilities and improvements.
“We are so proud of the students this week during the Sprit Week festivities. The point of Homecoming is that Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College has been your home in some point of your life or it is now, and to celebrate that together.”
For some it wasn’t just a Homecoming, but a small reunion. Current Madrigals and from years past gathered outside the Conservatory of Music to sing together. Many of them haven’t been able to sing as an ensamble since prior to the pandemic.
Allee Taylor ’21, celebrated her first Homecoming as an alum. “This is the first time I’ve sang with a group since my junior year. A whole year with singing with a mask, you really felt that barrier.”
Kristin Foster Dawson ’20, a current Masters of Arts in Music Therapy student, was excited to hear familiar songs being sung. “To be able to come back as alumna and sing with the current students and see despite everything the world has been through with this pandemic that the music is continuing — and some of the same music — is amazing. Homecoming is the perfect time to celebrate that. It’s all warm fuzzy feelings that everything will be alright in the world.”
Dawson had an extra special reunion as she reconnected with her little, Justine Gibson and met her grand-little, Ariana Hall. She encourages all who have the opportunity to do Big/Little to do it — the relationships gained are invaluable.
“It’s amazing to be a part of the legacy,” she said. “I have such a connection with this person that I met for the first time today.”
Gibson, also a member of the Madrigals, was excited to connect the Woodsie family. “I think Big/Little is special for everyone, but I think it’s extra special in our case.”
Sarah Stultz Mahady ’05 was thrilled with the turnout and the energy the crowd brought to campus. “It was disappointing last year when we could not gather together. It was such a blessing to reconnect with our alumni and friends,” Mahady said.
The day concluded with a choir and band concert outdoors at the Butler Classroom. The combined choirs and band played a finale of SMWC College Songs featuring “Our Lady of Providence,” “Alma Mater,” and “The Ring Song.”