26 STUDENT LIFE The homecoming parade returns amidst COVID-19 regulations. The office of alumni and parent relations made homecoming weekend virtual for the first time in history. A weekend traditionally filled with in-person reunions transitioned online in fall 2020. In-person events remained for students to attend safely, and were live-streamed for the Harding community. Heather Kemper, director of alumni and parent relations, knew Harding needed a uniting event in the time of uncertainty. While researching the class of 1970 in preparation for their 50th reunion party, the homecoming parade drew her attention. She decided 2020 was the perfect opportunity to resurrect this tradition, since other homecoming weekend activities were canceled. “Since we were not having the other on-campus activities, it was a good opportunity for us to give it a try,” Kemper said. Kemper was in charge of the parade alongside Shelbi Bridges, event and project director in the office of alumni and parent relations. “We were looking for something to bring students together and bring the Harding community together that would be safe, something that’s fun and people can get involved in and show their school spirit, but can also stand six feet apart while they do it,” Bridges said. Ju Go Ju float building director sophomore Gabi Gonzalez was excited to be involved in the float construction process. She said although traditions like tailgates were canceled, this experience provided opportunities to stay connected with friends safely. “I think this semester has been harder than ever to make friends or continue with existing friendships,” Gonzalez said. “I think this has been a good goal for a lot of clubs and organizations on campus to work towards together because it has kept us communicating with one another.” Kemper said that although uncertainties and restrictions resulting from COVID-19 made organizing activities on campus difficult in 2020, she hoped this experience gave students something to look forward to. “In a semester where there’s a lot of disappointments, hopefully this is something that brings joy and makes us reflect on the simple things, and that we can find excitement and creativity, and that helps us as a student body,” Kemper said. story by Ava Galyean FLOAT on HOME
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