Students attend the College Night mixer at the Student Activity Center. Photo by Austin Lowery. by Fox Conneen
On Sept. 16, UM students had the opportunity to get a taste of the University of Montevallo’s annual homecoming celebration by attending the College Night Mixer at the Student Activity Center.
Students bustled into the gym’s auditorium as the event kicked off, greeted by two long rows of tables for both Purple Side and Gold Side to introduce themselves and the opportunities they offer to eager students. The Student Activity Center was packed with a sea of UM’s school colors, cow print clothes and lion ears. Additionally, both sides set up photo booths adorned with balloons for their members to show their spirit.
UM’s new president Michelle R. Johnston then made a short announcement, where she thanked students and faculty for allowing her to join the campus’s longstanding homecoming tradition: “We have the best, most awesome, homecoming tradition,” she said. “Some people say in the United States, I say the world.”
Following her speech, both sides performed a few cheers and announced their head cabinets, before ending the evening with each side’s respective songs.
Excitement is high on both sides this year.
Despite their loss in the spring, both Gold leaders Emmie Koehn and Jake Manley showed excitement and spirit for their first event of the season, especially as longtime high school friends. They both discussed the importance of organization for their side’s cabinet along with strong communication amongst members.
Following two consecutive wins, Purple Side leaders Emily Brant and Taylor Frick have some pressure for success, but they express optimism for the season ahead. “The thing I think that really eases that worry is how incredible the cabinet we have behind us is,” said Frick.
Both sides still have many ways to get involved, whether through cabinet, cast or a way for students to try out something new. Those interested can contact either side via the Linktrees in their bios on Instagram. (@purplevictory and @goldvictorygv)
