Campbell University Hosts Annual Homecoming Celebration

     Amid the wails of bagpipes and proud tartan displays, Campbell University brought a “Wee Bit of Scotland” to Harnett County this Homecoming weekend. The festivities attracted hundreds of students, alumni, family and friends to the Buies Creek campus.
     Campbell University President Dr. Jerry Wallace said he is always excited to see Campbell alumni return to Buies Creek to share their appreciation for the University.
     “We have graduates, and families of graduates from all over this nation who have come back with loyalty and pride and deep thanksgiving,” he said.
     Capping a full week of Student Life and athletic events on campus, the Homecoming weekend began Friday with the annual Campbell University Homecoming Golf Tournament at Keith Hills Golf Course. With more than 200 participants, the event raised money for Campbell University athletic facility projects.
     The annual Heroes’ Run kicked off Saturday’s events at the Eakes Athletic Complex, with 127 runners participating in the 5K certified course.
     The Heroes Run honors a person or organization that best serves their community. This year’s honoree was 1st Lt. Justin Smith, a 2004 Campbell University graduate and ROTC student who was killed action in Iraq in 2005.
     Lt. Smith’s widow, Shellie, and her two sons, Spencer and Ayden, helped to launch the race. Smith said she was thankful her husband was remembered for his service and honored for “what he meant to Campbell and what Campbell meant to him.” She asked that a portion of the race proceeds be donated to the Campbell University ROTC Cadet program.
     Across campus in the Academic Circle, the Wee Bit of Scotland Fall Festival activities attracted large crowds. Guest performers included WRAL’s Bill Leslie and Lorica, Jennifer Licko, the Cross Creek Pipes and Drums and various highland dance troupes. Student group booths, Scottish craft vendors and highland game demonstrations offered a variety of attractions for visitors.
     Excited onlookers cheered along the Homecoming Parade participants as they made the trek around campus. This year’s parade included over 30 eye-catching floats and displays, representing various student groups and organizations. Trustee Ed Gore and his wife Dinah, of Sunset Beach, served as this year’s Grand Marshals.
     Meanwhile, Camel fans flocked to the Homecoming athletic events to cheer on the home teams. Basketball fans were given a preview of this year’s season with men’s and women’s Orange and Black scrimmage games. The men’s soccer team later led Campbell to a 4-0 victory over Lipscomb, while the women held off Gardner-Webb until the final four minutes of the game, before taking a 1-0 loss.
     Student athletes say Homecoming is a great time to cheer on their fellow Camels.
     “It’s all about coming out and supporting each other,” said men’s soccer defender Devin Sheppard.
     Saturday’s events wrapped up with a student talent show, followed by a Homecoming dance.


Photo Copy: The Cross Creek Pipes and Drums troupe performs during Campbell University’s Wee Bit of Scotland Homecoming festivities.