SNU’s Homecoming Week is always an anticipated time when tradition, school pride, and community spirit come together. This year’s 2024 Homecoming Court is no exception, featuring students who have each made significant contributions to campus life. As the university gears up for Homecoming, it’s time to meet the candidates chosen to represent the SNU student body.
Chosen through a campus-wide voting process, the Homecoming Court reflects the collective voice of the SNU community. Students participate in nominating and selecting peers who have made a lasting impact on the campus. This democratic approach ensures that the court represents a true cross-section of the student body, celebrating the achievements of those who have worked to improve the university experience for everyone.
This year’s Homecoming Court comprises ten students, each with a story of their own. Whether they are leading clubs, excelling in athletics, or volunteering in the community, these students share a common bond: a deep connection to SNU and a desire to give back to the campus that has shaped them.
Bayli Gilliland says that being elected to the Homecoming Court represents the continuation of her cherished family legacy. “I am so excited to be on the Homecoming Court! SNU is a super important part of my life and my family’s as well. I hope to represent student-athletes in a way that shows you can be friends with everyone and get involved!”
Bailey Cauley says that she is honored to be representing a university she loves. “Being part of the court is meaningful to me because it feels like I’m representing my school. I love SNU, and I am honored that my schoolmates nominated me.”
Reese Rhodes expresses pride in the recognition, saying, “To be elected means a lot because it shows that the time and energy I have put into this university and our social life has been recognized. I’m glad other students feel I am a good representative of them, which is an honor I hope I carry well.”
Emma Long sees her place on the court as a way to pour back into a community that has supported her. “SNU has given me so much, and I want to do my best to give as much back as possible. I truly love this place and the community it has provided me,” she exclaims. “My hope is to represent that daily.”
Emma Milligan feels that being on the Homecoming Court serves as a milestone in her journey at SNU. “When I first came to SNU, I wanted to make a difference,” she reflects, “Being on the court has affirmed that my being here was worthwhile. I hope I can represent the SNU body well.”
Chase Matson shares, “I am excited that I get to represent the student body this way. I have walk-up songs for things in real life, and I’m hyped to pick one for the ceremony too! There is no place like SNU when it comes to community!”
Gage Miller, who didn’t initially picture himself on the Homecoming Court, appreciates the unexpected recognition from his peers. “It means a lot to be part of this tradition that I’ve watched over the years. I hope my peers see that anything is possible.”
Nolan Steeples recognizes that being on the court aligns with his values of service and faith. “Being selected for the 2024 Homecoming Court at SNU is a great honor. It’s about representing myself, my family, and, most importantly, the God I serve.”
Drew Middendorf adds a lighthearted note, sharing his excitement for the upcoming week. “It’s pretty cool to be voted on by my peers. If Carson Shirola wins, homecoming will be perfect.”
Carson Shirola emphasizes the importance of representing his peers saying, “I’m honored that my friends and the school body thought I was eligible. I hope I can represent students who are hardworking, involved, and committed to making SNU a better place”
For each of these ten students, being on the Homecoming Court is more than a title–it’s a meaningful chapter in their college journey. This year’s Homecoming Court reflects the best of SNU, embodying its honor, spirit, and tradition.
Photos by: SNU Creative