South Dakota State University celebrates its homecoming tradition on October 29

BROOKINGS, SD (Dakota News Now) – “Hobo Day 2022” at South Dakota State University will celebrate the 110th anniversary of South Dakota State University’s homecoming tradition.

According to a school press release, the festivities begin Monday with the annual Bum-A-Meal, where SDSU students share a meal with members of the community, and with a parade from Medary Avenue to downtown Brookings beginning at 9:30 a.m. Oct. , ends. 29. Jim Voster will serve as grand marshal of this year’s Hobo Parade.

“The committee looks forward to seeing you in Brookings on October 29th for ‘The Dakotas’ Biggest One-Day Event,'” said Matilyn “Matty” Kerr, program advisor for University Traditions.

Worcester, informally known as “Mr. Jackrabbit,” was a longtime supporter and champion of the university. A 1962 graduate of animal science, he made significant contributions to the university. The SDSU Foundation’s Jerome J. Lohr Award for Volunteer Leadership.

The Hobo Spirit Award, launched in 2016, recognizes an individual who embodies the hobo spirit and has made a significant contribution to the legacy of Hobo Day at SDSU. This year’s recipient of the Hobo Spirit Award will be Patrick “Pat” Lyons, Professor Emeritus of Economics.

During his 39-year career at SDSU, Lyon taught more than 23,000 students and was recognized as Teacher of the Year five times. Lyons served as an advisor to the Hobo Day Committee from 1977 to 1984. The award will be presented to the Lyons family on October 28, 2018 at the Hobo Day alumni gathering.

This year’s Hobo Day honorees are Weary Wil and Dirty Lil. By tradition, Will and Lil’s identity will be kept a secret until halftime of the Hobo Day football game. The Hobo Day Committee has suggested two alumni to serve as mascots: Will is a 1982 mechanical engineering graduate and Lil is a 1984 home economics journalism graduate.

Check out all the Hobo Day events happening this year www.SDState.Edu/HoboDay.

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