LU celebrates 90th homecoming

Alumni from around the country came together at Lincoln University in Jefferson City for the 90th year. It’s homecoming weekend for the school, and past and present students kicked off the event Friday night with live music and fireworks.

Hundreds of alumni gathered on the campus quad to reminisce about times gone by. Anthony and Valerie Hall met at Lincoln University in the ’80s and now have been married for 31 years. “It means a lot to come back here and see the familiar faces. Over the years, we’ve all aged a little bit. We look a little different but you still appreciate the camaraderie that we shared here,” said Anthony Hall.

The school has been planning homecoming weekend since February. It’s a Lincoln University tradition that’s been around for 90 years. “Lincoln University was founded in 1866 by the soldiers of the 62nd and 65th Colored Infantry. So, we were founded by Civil War veterans. Our first homecoming was held in 1924 when some of the former soldiers came back and some of the former students came back to honor our founders,” said Misty Young, director of university relations for Lincoln University.

Past student said it’s great to see former classmates but also the students who will someday be alumni too. “To see how they’re just gathering around and moving about and staying interactive — it brings back a lot of memories;” said Valerie Hall.

On Saturday, Lincoln University continues the weekend with a parade in downtown Jefferson City and the school will play Texas College in football.