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President Richard Helldobler speaks with alumna Chanti A Carter Rene for his video interview series, WP Reflections, in which he speaks with alumni and friends about their unique experiences at William Paterson experience and how the University influenced them, personally and professionally.
William Paterson University will expand its annual Homecoming celebration into a three-day Homecoming and Family Weekend for the first time, October 16–18, 2026, welcoming alumni, students, faculty, staff, families, and community members to campus for music, tailgating, children’s activities, Pioneer athletics, and a new reunion celebration.
“Homecoming and Family Weekend brings students, alumni, families, faculty, and staff together to celebrate what it means to be part of the WP community,” says Associate Vice President for Student Development Francisco Diaz. “With more opportunities to connect, have fun and show our Pioneer Pride, we hope everyone finds a way to participate, create memories and feel at home at William Paterson.”
"Representing nearly 95,000 alumni, the WP Alumni Association is proud to support Homecoming, our largest annual alumni gathering,” says WP Alumni Association President Nafin Elias ’20. “Expanded in response to alumni and WP community feedback, the weekend celebrates Pioneer Pride, strengthens lifelong connections, and welcomes graduates from every generation back home."
The weekend kicks off Friday, October 16, at the Shea Center for Performing Arts with Powerhouse of Sound!, featuring performances by William Paterson student ensembles spanning jazz, classical, and popular music. The concert begins at 7 p.m., followed by a free jam session from 8:30 to 10 p.m., when attendees are invited to bring their own instruments and join in. Concert admission is $28, including fees. Click: Powerhouse of Sound tickets
Homecoming traditions take center stage on Saturday, October 17, beginning with tailgating from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Parking Lot 2. Alumni, students, families, faculty, staff, and community members are welcome to bring food, drinks, and grills for a traditional tailgate experience.
The Pioneer Family Carnival will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Practice Field, featuring games, prizes, food, and activities for all ages.
At 1 p.m., the Pioneer football team takes on The College of New Jersey at Wightman Stadium, where fans are encouraged to “Orange Out the Stands” by wearing as much orange as possible. The day’s athletic action continues at 5 p.m., when the Pioneer women’s soccer team faces Stockton University at Pioneer Soccer Park.
Admission for the full slate of Saturday events is $10 per person for alumni and the public and includes Saturday’s tailgate, Pioneer Family Carnival, football game, and women’s soccer game. William Paterson students, faculty, and staff receive one complimentary admission ticket for Saturday’s events by registering with their WP credentials. (See instructions below.) Click: Register for Saturday’s Homecoming and Family Day festivities
For students, faculty, and staff:
The weekend concludes Sunday, October 18, with a new event celebrating William Paterson alumni. The inaugural Class Reunion Bubbly Brunch, from 10 a.m. to noon in the University Commons Ballrooms, will bring together alumni from classes ending in 1 and 6—from five years out and beyond—to reconnect with classmates and celebrate their ties to William Paterson. Admission is $18, including fees, for brunch with the first mimosa included; a cash bar is available afterward. Attendees must be age 21 or older and present ID. Click: Class Reunion Bubbly Brunch tickets
For additional information about Homecoming and Family Weekend, including registration, tailgating guidelines, hotel discounts, and a complete schedule of events, visit wpunj.edu/homecoming.
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Michael Dandorph'90 President and CE0, Tuffs Medicine View news story
"Through EOF, I was able to connect with students of similar backgrounds and experiences, while also receiving guidance from compassionate advisors, who were vested in my success...I often use the phrase,'Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of people in your charge.'My life experience reminds me that sometimes people just need a bit help to become the best versions of themselves."
Rosa Diaz'97 Chief School Administrator/Superintendent of Schools, Carteret, NJ View news story
"As a first-generation college student, I needed guidance, so I networked with fellow business students, professors, and alumni. That gave me a competitive advantage in the workforce; I was better prepared to navigate and build my path to professional success."
Manuel Garcia'04 Private Equity Consultant and Director, Accordion View news story
"The University provided me with a wonderful education and campus experience that had a positive impact on me and my career. Through my involvement in so many wonderful WP club and activities, I connected with countless individuals who helped me succeed as a student and beyond."
Dylan Johnson'21 Technology Risk Consultant, Ernst & Young, Cincinnati, Ohio View news story
