Central State University Homecoming 2025: Through the Decades, A Legacy in Every Era

Central State University’s 2025 Homecoming, themed Through the Decades: A Legacy in Every Era, was a powerful blend of history, tradition and high energy that only an HBCU Homecoming can deliver. With alumni returning from across the country, students taking center stage, and sponsors showing steadfast support, the week became a family reunion, celebration and legacy-building experience.

Honoring the Greens and Celebrating Athletic Greatness

The week opened with a historic milestone: the renaming of Foundation Hall I to Ernie and Della Green Hall in recognition of their decades of commitment and contributions to the University. The dedication marked the beginning of a Homecoming rooted in gratitude for those who paved the way.

The Athletic Hall of Fame Luncheon was equally memorable, spotlighting inductees who defined Marauder athletic excellence:

Neil De Silva (’93), Men’s Track & Field
Allen Smith, Men’s Basketball, two-time MVP
Kesha Adams, Women’s Volleyball, four-time MVP from 1991–94
Wayne Lawrence, Men’s Track & Field, whose leadership anchored the 1993 championship season
The 2001–2002 Women’s Basketball Team, a powerhouse remembered for precision and purpose

The luncheon honored not only individual greatness but also the enduring legacy of teams who embodied the spirit of Central State.

Alumni Gatherings and Connection

The Alumni Decades Day Party set the tone for the weekend, serving as both a celebration and a kickoff for the days ahead. Alumni from every era came together to eat, relax, mix and mingle — and then hit the dance floor when President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti made a surprise guest appearance as DJ. Playing throwbacks from the 1960s through the early 2000s, Dr. Kuti reminded everyone that Homecoming is about both leadership and family. The night was filled with joy, laughter and a true spirit of unity.

The Ebony Class of 1990 hosted its Back to the Breezeway Party during Homecoming, a gathering focused on reconnecting with classmates while also welcoming fellow alumni to join in the celebration. The event showcased the strength of unity within a class and highlighted the impact that comes when alumni come together in support of Central State University. Alongside the festivities, the Class of 1990 reaffirmed its commitment to raising funds for scholarships and class gifts that directly benefit today’s students.

The Alumni and Friends Scholarship Breakfast was a sold out affair where alumni chapters and affinity groups from across the nation came together to highlight their accomplishments and fundraising efforts that they have taken throughout the year on behalf of the University and it's students.

Alumni recognized student scholarship recipients and were inspired by remarks from Centralian and U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty. Her words reinforced the power of alumni to shape the future of our alma mater.

A Royal Coronation and Student Leadership

The Coronation of Mister and Miss Central State University brought pageantry, culture and emotion to the forefront. Nathan Hart and Asia Kimpson were crowned by President Kuti and First Lady Bridget Archie-Kuti in a ceremony that was as majestic as it was meaningful. The evening featured a Junkanoo band performance with vibrant Bahamian rhythms and a standout vocal and dance performance by outgoing Miss CSU 2024 Breanne Lovelace, making the ceremony a highlight of the week.

The Student Government Association Inauguration introduced a new class of leaders who will continue to shape the campus experience and uphold the traditions of service and leadership.

Spirit, Competition and Campus Energy

The Greek Step Show brought down the house, with organizations thrilling the crowd through creative, high-energy performances. The men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Beta Gamma Chapter took first place, winning over the audience with a decades-inspired routine that brought the beloved late 80's early 90's TV show Family Matters to life. With Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., in second place and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority in third place.

On the field, the Marauders battled Morehouse College in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Despite a hard-fought effort, CSU fell just short with a final score of 26–31, but the energy in the stands reflected unwavering Marauder pride.

Sponsors and Support

This year’s Homecoming soared to new levels thanks to dynamic alumni support and corporate sponsorships. Partners included JP Morgan Chase, Black Girl Vitamins, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, Wright-Patt Credit Union, the CSU Board of Trustees, Procter & Gamble, Bob Ross Auto Group, Dr. Murphy of Orthopedics Associates, the Norma J. Ross Memorial Foundation and Life Connections. Their investment reinforced the value of Homecoming as a bridge between the University and the broader community.

The Homecoming Experience

From start to finish, the week offered something for everyone — alumni, students, faculty, staff, friends and sponsors. Alumni Village was the heartbeat of the celebration, serving as a gathering place where food, music, laughter and legacy converged.

Homecoming 2025 was more than a celebration. It was a reunion, a reflection and a reminder of the strength of the Marauder family. This was not just a week of events, it was an experience that only happens at Central State University,

The University extends heartfelt thanks to Public Safety, Facilities, faculty, staff, students and alumni whose efforts made this year’s Homecoming possible.

As the theme declared, Through the Decades: A Legacy in Every Era, Central State’s Homecoming continues to embody history, honor and hope — leaving alumni, students and friends eager for the legacy still to come.