LU Black Alumni Network to host annual Homecoming Gala and Tailgate
For the second year, the Lamar University Black Alumni Network will host its annual homecoming celebrations starting with a scholarship gala and Black alumni tailgate beginning Sept. 30.
The gala will fund the LU Black Alumni Network scholarship endowment fund for diverse Lamar University students. This in-person black tie event will consist of a lineup of performers, dancers, musical guests, catered meals, an open bar and more. Musical sounds will be provided by a live band, Code Black, under the direction of Canice Nijoku ‘12 and Matthew “DJ Mr. Fresh” Berry.
The event program also will feature several LU alumni: Roosevelt Matthews ‘19, Jamerica Malbrough ‘15, Charles Collins ‘20, Jefferson County Constable, Christopher Bates ‘08, Dr. Freddie Titus ‘83. 
“When we started the LU Black Alumni Network, our goal was to make a long-lasting impact. Often we forget our purpose for doing things and we want to make it clear that our goal for the gala is to create a legacy for students of color,” said Aliyah Thomas '16, vice-president and co-founder of the network. “I am also excited to continue to create a full weekend of events for the alumni to come back to. Lamar University's homecoming has the potential to be one of the biggest and best homecomings in the state and we just want to be a part of making that happen.”
The gala will be held at a new venue this year; the Major Event Center, located at 3255 N Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas 77713 on Friday, Sept. 30. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. The dress code is formal and strictly enforced.
Tickets are currently on sale for $60 and Advertising and sponsorship tables are available to purchase. The deadline for sponsorship advertisements is Sept.15. Registration for the gala closes on Wednesday, Sept. 21. For more information about the scholarship gala, visit www.lamar.edu/blackalumnigala.
The Black alumni tailgate, another fan favorite, will return this year on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 12-9 p.m. adjacent to the Subway parking lot. The Cardinals are set to take on Houston Baptist University and kickoff starts at 3 p.m.
About the LU Black Alumni Network:
The Lamar University Black Alumni Network, chartered in 2021, exists to cultivate an environment where Black Alumni can be celebrated, connected, and supported throughout their lifetime. The Black Alumni Network unites the presence of alumni and students of the LU community through efforts with the Office of Alumni Affairs, establishing relationships, connections, and opportunities for Black alumni and students.