By Ashley Armstrong
On Friday, Nov. 4, alumni and their families kicked off Homecoming Weekend by gathering at Seibert Stadium to rally and show their support for the Samford Bulldogs. The casual gathering showcased the Samford Cheer Team and mascot Samson the Bulldog as they cheered and chatted with families about their Samford experience and their excitement for the events of Homecoming Weekend.
Jayla Duncan, a freshman Journalism and Mass Communications major and member of the Samford Cheer Team, said “Homecoming Weekend was a great experience, it was exciting as a freshman getting to interact with the alumni and hearing them share their Samford experience makes me hopeful for my future at Samford. Talking with an alumnus that graduated in 2006 with the same major and former cheer captain. It was great to see how they used their major and experience at Samford to grow beyond their years and in the work field.”
The highlight of Homecoming Weekend was the Samford Alumni Celebration in Seibert Hall, where they honored the 2022 Alumni of the Year. Alumnus of the Year Lynn Boggs, class of ’79, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business from the Brock School of Business, and is the co-founder and chief executive officer of University FanCards.
Outstanding Young Alumnus of the Year Chad Trull, class of ’05, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and is a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board for the Brock School of Business. Trull is the founder and chief executive officer of HighFive Healthcare.
Humanitarians of the Year Lindy Cleveland, class of ’14, graduated from Orlean Beeson School of Education with a Bachelor of Arts. Cleveland is the founder and executive director of Unless U, a nonprofit that seeks to provide faith-based continuing education and teach developmental, life and vocational skills to adults with disabilities.
Susan and Ken Berg are the music directors of the Birmingham Boys Choir, group ensembles of boys who are 8-18 years old and perform all over the world. Susan Berg Class of ’77, graduated from the School of the Arts with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. Ken Berg, class of ’77 & ’81, graduated from the School of the Arts with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and a Master of Music Education. These alumni are acknowledged based on their achievement and commitment to Samford in their years after graduation.
Then on Saturday, Nov. 5, campus organizations set up tents and tables on the quad to welcome students and their families. The Samford marching band gathered at the front step of the University Center as the Samford Bulldogs made their way down to the field. The rainy weather had no effect on the spirit of those rallying behind them. The Samford Bulldogs faced The Virginia Military Institute Cadets, with a final score of 34-15. Rain or shine, the Samford Bulldogs persevered and showed out on top to conclude this year’s Homecoming Weekend.
