The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Homecoming 2025 will be celebrated this week with events that welcome alumni, students and the greater community to participate. University-sponsored event details are available at uapb.edu/homecoming-2025.
UAPB is implementing a comprehensive community engagement approach as well as enhanced safety measures across all Homecoming events.
Key aspects include:
UAPB Police Department will coordinate a security plan, crowd management, traffic and parking, and emergency response on campus.
Collaboration with Pine Bluff Police Department, Jefferson County sheriff’s office and Arkansas State Police ensures coverage of off-campus areas, roadways and surrounding venues.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Enforcement of the clear bag policy across all events as listed on the UAPB website.
Student engagement in safety awareness: reminders to attend events responsibly, report concerns and use available support (escort services, campus safety phone lines, etc.).
“We are grateful for the community partners, including local and state law enforcement, who work collaboratively with UAPB to ensure visitors to Pine Bluff and our campus feel welcome,” said UAPB Chancellor Anthony Graham. “We are equally committed to ensuring this year’s homecoming is not only joyous, but secure for all who attend.”
Centered on the theme “Trailblazing the Black and Gold,” this year’s observance will pay tribute to UAPB’s 152-year legacy of scholarship while highlighting the university’s forward-looking vision of innovation, excellence and community impact. All are encouraged to take part, according to the news release.
“Homecoming is a powerful reminder of our history, our progress, and the limitless possibilities ahead,” said Graham. “As I experience my first UAPB Homecoming, I am excited to honor the spirit of what it means to be a Golden Lion: trailblazers who carry forward a legacy of excellence while boldly paving the way for generations to come.”
Homecoming is both a celebration of UAPB’s heritage and a catalyst for economic vitality across the city and Southeast Arkansas.
“Each year, the influx of alumni and visitors fuels business for hotels, restaurants, shops, and transportation services throughout Pine Bluff, Jefferson County, and into Pulaski County. In addition to its economic significance, homecoming affirms UAPB’s position as a cornerstone institution, fueling cultural pride, fostering community connections, and advancing the region’s long-term vitality,” according to the release.
HOMECOMING HIGHLIGHTS
Oct. 5 — The week starts with UAPB Black and Gold Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at Full Counsel Church-Pine Bluff, 517 Cherry St.
Oct. 6 — The Door Decorating Competition begins. The campus community will be encouraged to show their Homecoming spirit by decorating office and dorm doors. The best decorated doors will win.
Oct. 7 — The official Homecoming Kickoff is held at the W.E. O’Bryant Bell Tower from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Oct. 8 — Pretty Wednesday: Homecoming Edition is held at the W.E. O’Bryant Bell Tower from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. From 7-9 p.m., the Coronation Ceremony and Coronation Ball will take place. A clear bag policy will be in effect.
Oct. 9 — The Alumni Homecoming Golf Tournament is held at Harbor Oaks Golf Course. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Tee Time starts at 8:30 a.m. The cost is $90 for individual play. Contact the UAPB Alumni Affairs Office at (870) 575-8499 for additional information. Other events on Thursday include Paint the Paws and a Homecoming Bonfire.
Oct. 10 — UAPB hosts the Annual Alumni Assembly at 9 a.m. at the H.O. Clemmons Arena of the Kenneth L. Johnson Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) Complex. A clear bag policy will be in effect.
Oct. 11 — The UAPB Homecoming grand finale will include the annual parade at 9:30 a.m. on Main Street in downtown Pine Bluff. (The parade application deadline is Oct. 5 by 5 p.m.) Alumnus Perry Stuckey will be this year’s Parade Grand Marshal.
Oct. 11 — The Homecoming game will be at Simmons Bank Field with kickoff at 2 p.m. featuring the UAPB Golden Lions vs. Westgate Christian University Ravens. There will be a clear bag policy.
Oct. 11 — The All Black Affair is set for the Pine Bluff Convention Center at 8 p.m. For tickets and table sponsorships call (501) 536-2309. The UAPB/AM&N National Alumni Association presents this celebration honoring the Beta Cohort of the FIFTY Under 50 Outstanding Young Alumni. The evening will include entertainment by Dee Dee Jones, and heavy hors d’oeuvres. The attire is all black, all classy. A clear bag policy will be in effect.
Details: uapb.edu/homecoming-2025.
The Annual Homecoming Parade is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Main Street in Downtown Pine Bluff on Saturday, Oct. 11.
To stay up to date on all the latest official UAPB Homecoming 2025 events and activities, visit https://uapb.edu/homecoming-2025/