Shaw University Cancels Homecoming Activities for 2020
Raleigh, NC – (June 23, 2020) – As part of its response to ongoing health and safety concerns related to COVID-19, Shaw University will cancel all in-person Homecoming activities for 2020, with the exception of the Homecoming football game.
“Our primary concern is the health and safety of the Shaw University community, as well as all the supporters who participate in Homecoming every year. Choosing to forego a beloved tradition was difficult, and while we are disappointed, we recognize that this is absolutely the right thing to do for all involved,” said Dr. Paulette Dillard, president of Shaw University.
Homecoming typically sees thousands of alumni, students, and fans coming on campus and surrounding area venues for a week of activities. “This is a major event for the Shaw family each year, and we look forward to Homecoming 2021,” said Marilyn Baldwin Richards, vice president for Institutional Advancement.
The Office of Alumni Relations will provide information to the classes that would have been in reunion during Homecoming 2020. Richards shared that the University is considering options for virtual engagement of alumni and fans throughout the year, and will provide more information as plans are finalized.
Shaw’s Homecoming game versus Johnson C. Smith University is scheduled for Saturday, October 24. The Athletics Department will provide further information regarding plans for the game, related activities, and operational plans at a later date.