This weekend marks a new event on the Western New England campus, Golden Bear Weekend! In years past, two major events dominated the fall schedule – Homecoming Weekend and Friends and Family Weekend. But this year, the two are being combined into one epic weekend of fun!

Did you know the first Homecoming Weekend at Western New England was held in the fall of 1970? The almost 50 year tradition began when a football team was officially formed on campus and joined the Eastern Collegiate Club Football Conference. The fall of 1970 marked their first season, and the activities of Homecoming Weekend were established to complete the traditional collegiate fall football experience.

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From football games, to Homecoming Kings and Queens, and alumni reunions, Homecoming has a rich history on the Western New England campus. To learn more, be sure to check out the Archive’s online exhibition about the tradition, Homecoming at Western New England University.

Happy Golden Bear Weekend!