Homecoming activities kick off with Unity Walk

Participants in the event march around the Huntington campus each year, with a bold display of unity, inclusion and oneness, mixed with food, fellowship and entertainment.

The idea behind the event is deeply rooted in the #MarshallUFamily mantra.

“The jubilant experience of the annual Unity Walk moves us from the feeling to the real personalization of unity, social kinship and family closeness,” said Maurice Cooley, vice president for intercultural affairs and dean of students. “The annual reunion will continue to uplift the importance of unity, while bringing new members of the family each year into the fold, constantly building our ties.”

Activities begin at 5 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 4, with special speakers, including Men’s Soccer Head Coach Chris Grassie, Marshall University President Dr. Jerome Gilbert, Student Body President Alyssa Parks and Cooley, who organizes the event each year.

The path for the walk begins at the Rec Center, then half of the group turns toward 3^rd Avenue on 20^th Street while the other half of the group turns toward 5^th Avenue. The two groups reunite on the Memorial Student Center Plaza, where the winners of the Unity Walk’s Banner Contest will be revealed, along with the announcement of Marshall’s Homecoming Court.

Cooley says the event is a great experience each year and the simple act of walking together can lead to a very positive outcome.

“Sometimes, just taking an enjoyable walk with someone new can break the ice of separation and distancing,” said Cooley. “We must uplift our commonality and take more steps toward breaking down the walls of injustice and hate.”

The event is free and students, alumni, family and community members are all encouraged to attend. Please note: Due to COVID-19 concerns related to large gatherings, masks are required, regardless of vaccination status.

To view a full list of Homecoming activities involving the Marshall University Alumni Association, visit https://www.herdalum.com/calendar-of-events. Other student-focused events taking place can be found by visiting https://www.marshall.edu/homecoming/events/.