Announcements
Oct 9, 2026
Marshall, TX – For generations of Wiley University alumni, Homecoming means returning to the place where friendships began, confidence grew, and futures took shape. October 18 through 24, Wiley University will welcome alumni, students, and the Marshall community for “Brims, Boots & Wildcat Roots,” a celebration of shared history, new memories, and opportunities to support today’s students.
From a Gospel Explosion featuring Zacardi Cortez to a community street festival and a scholarship fundraiser featuring K. Michelle, this year’s Homecoming offers several ways for neighbors, families, and friends to join the celebration.
The Gospel Explosion will open the week with an afternoon of music and worship on Sunday, October 18, at 3 p.m. in Pemberton Gymnasium. Free and open to the public, the concert will feature Zacardi Cortez and the A Cappella Choir of Wiley University, led by Bruce A. Thompson. Community members and local congregations are invited to share in this Homecoming tradition.
On Saturday, October 24, the Homecoming Community Street Festival, Wildcat Vendor Village, Food Truck Rally, and Mainstage events begin at 9 a.m. Families can enjoy children's activities along the Legacy Wall and Heman Sweatt Plaza. The Wildcat Vendor Village and Food Truck Rally will offer shopping and dining in the Alumni Gymnasium parking lot, while Mainstage entertainment and tailgating will take place in the Tailgate Garden in front of Baker Science.
Guests can then cheer on the Wiley Wildcats against Texas College in Alumni Gymnasium. Women’s basketball begins at 2 p.m., followed by men’s basketball at 4 p.m. One ticket provides admission to both games for $20 online or $30 at the door. Wiley students with a valid student ID and children under age 3 receive free admission. Clear bags only inside the Alumni Gymnasium.
The day concludes with Boots & Brims: The President’s Scholarship Fundraiser, featuring K. Michelle, at 8 p.m. in Pemberton Gymnasium. Guests are encouraged to wear their best boots and brims for an evening of live music, dancing, food, and a cash bar. Open to adults ages 21 and older, the fundraiser brings supporters together to raise scholarship funds that help Wiley University students pursue their education.
Wiley University invites alumni, businesses, and community supporters to fill the room for K. Michelle’s performance and make a meaningful investment in student success. Tickets are $75 online or $100 at the door. Reserved tables for eight are $800, and VIP Event Sponsor tables for eight are $1,000. Online presale ends October 19, and VIP Event Sponsor tables are going fast. Guests are encouraged to reserve their tickets and tables early at https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=v2pJAu.
Additional highlights on Friday, October 23, include the State of the University, Wildcat Pep Rally, NPHC Step Show, and the Wiley University National Alumni Association’s Lifetime Soirée, recognizing 44 alumni.
Whether returning to campus or visiting for the first time, guests are invited to celebrate the people, traditions, and stories that connect Wiley University and the Marshall community.
For the full schedule, tickets, and giving opportunities, visit www.wileyc.edu/wiley-university-homecoming-2026.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact Catherine G. Sellers, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications, and Brand Management, at communications@wileyc.edu.
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About Wiley University:
Wiley University, formerly known as Wiley College, is a premier liberal arts institution related to the United Methodist Church. The university is dedicated to fostering social good and developing leaders who make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.
