Celebrating Tradition and Spirit: SEMO Homecoming Parade 2024

As fall rears its head in Cape Girardeau, SEMO hosts its annual Homecoming parade, a cherished tradition that unites students, alumni, and the local community. This year’s parade, which took place Oct. 26 on Cape’s main street, Broadway, not only highlighted the University’s rich history but served as a reminder of the lasting connections forged on this campus.

This year’s parade featured a diverse lineup of participants, each contributing to the spirited atmosphere. Student organizations showcased their creativity with elaborate floats, the marching band energized the crowd with lively tunes, and local businesses joined in on the fun, providing colorful displays and engagement for families.

The theme for this year’s parade was “SEMO: A Story of Success.” Sororities and fraternities collaborated to design storybook-themed floats, highlighting the parade's central message. Among these floats was the Lambda Chi and Alpha Xi collaboration float, which featured a Winnie-the-Pooh theme.

Other members of the community joined along in the fun. Businesses like Puddle Jumper Canine Rehabilitation, Safe House Cape Girardeau, and Midwest Truck Inc. each brought their unique flair to the festivities.

The presence of local businesses added to the festive atmosphere, but it was the student organizations that truly energized the parade. From spirited displays and enthusiastic performances, these groups showcased their creativity and school pride, highlighting the diverse talents within the student body.

Among these organizations were the SEMO Marching Band, SEMO Cheerleaders, sports teams, and even Rowdy the Redhawk himself.

As the celebrations wound down, students took a moment to think about their favorite homecoming memories. For many, these cherished experiences highlight the excitement that defines their time at SEMO.

Senior health sciences major Ashlynn Kommer shared her favorite memory of the festivities.

“My favorite memory would probably be my second year, whenever my friends all had a house together. We all had a big party together, and it was a super fun time,” Kommer said.

This enthusiasm is mirrored by alumni who return each year to partake in cherished homecoming traditions. Many alumni take pride in watching current students, sharing stories from their time at SEMO, and rekindling old friendships.

SEMO Alumni Sammy Snider said her family has a few traditions they make sure to highlight each year at the parade.

“We’ve been coming to the parade as a family for almost ten years. We always meet up with extended family who live in the area, and watch the parade together. When we were younger, we always had a lot of fun trying to catch the candy thrown out from the floats. Then afterwards, we always go to a big lunch together as a family,” Snider said.

As the final floats rolled by and the last notes of the marching band faded into the autumn air, this year’s Homecoming parade at SEMO proved to be a memorable celebration of tradition, community, and school spirit.