The annual Homecoming Tiger Tailgate took place last weekend on Saturday, Oct. 4, filling the Fieldhouse parking lot with the sounds of music, laughter and sizzling food from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Students, staff, alumni and families gathered to celebrate Doane and to wrap up an eventful Homecoming week. The tailgate served as both a large social gathering for people as well as a warm-up for the homecoming football game, which kicked off later that afternoon at 1 p.m. against Dakota Wesleyan.
The event offered something for everyone, whether it was connecting with old friends, meeting new people, or supporting student organizations through a variety of fundraisers. Greek life chapters and student groups lined the lot with many tables and tents. Some student-led fundraisers included Omega Psi Theta’s Redbull infusions, Asian Pacific Islander Organization’s boba and pastries, and the Doane Art Club’s bake sale, amongst many others, giving student organizations the chance to raise money for their organizations while also building community support with other Doane students and alumni.
In addition to the student-run stands, Fresh Ideas served lunch featuring pulled pork, grilled chicken, classic sides and desserts.
Throughout the tailgate, groups gathered to socialize, reconnecting with classmates from years past and chatting with faculty or new students. The sense of connection was very present. Vice President for Academic Affairs Judy Kawamoto said, “It was so exciting to see current students, faculty, staff, and alumni come together to enjoy the beautiful weather and celebrate Doane. The whole tailgate area had incredible energy, and I really loved how everyone supported our student organization fundraisers in particular. I thought it was the best tailgate yet. The atmosphere improves every year.”
The sunny weather added to the lively atmosphere, encouraging people to participate in outdoor activities such as cornhole, caricature drawings and class photos. The tailgate also offered a glimpse of campus life for prospective students and their families, who participated in tailgate activities and experienced the welcoming, tight-knit environment that makes Doane stand out.
Tiger Tailgate wrapped up right before kickoff. It remains one of the most unifying traditions of the year, bringing many people to campus, which is what makes homecoming at Doane truly special.
