Virginia Union University's 2025 Homecoming Unites Students, Alumni, and Community in a Week of Celebration and Legacy
October 27, 2025
By: Karyn Cook
RICHMOND, Va— Virginia Union University celebrated the 2025 homecoming season with a roar — a week packed with excitement, unity, and Panther pride. With over 9,000 attendees, Homecoming was a week to remember. Amazon returned as the title sponsor, along with The ELOCEN Group as an additional sponsor, helping fuel a fun-filled week of festivities and hands-on experiences for students, alumni, and the wider community
The HBCU Experience at Amazon returned, featuring the Rah-Rah cheerleaders, the Ambassadors of Sound Marching Band, and sorority and fraternity performances where VUU students dispayed their distinct energy and talent. The long-anticipated week kicked off on Sunday, October 12th , with VUU Homecoming Pop-Up Concert featuring the legendary Hezekiah Walker and a powerful performance by VUU’s gospel choir, led by Joel Lester.
Monday kept the momentum going with a lively Trail Ride, where students donned their best country-western attire. On Tuesday, Panthers took a nostalgic spin at a 90s-themed skate party.
Wednesday, October 15th, was the pep rally, where students were invited to show their best school spirit, and they were later invited to participate in a Silent Headphone party.
Thursday brought the esteemed and engaging Clergy Fellowship Breakfast in the morning, with a major milestone as the Student Government Association inaugurated its new president, Ivi Armstrong-Edlow, along with newly appointed cabinet members at the weekly chapel service, with guest preacher Dr. George Lewis Parks Jr. of the Metropolitan Baptist Church in Largo, Maryland.
That evening, the much-anticipated Royal Court was unveiled at the elegant Phantom of the Opera-themed event.
Amazon representatives present title sponsorship check during the homecoming celebration.
The weekend came alive on Friday with Yard Fest, featuring DJ Stakz. Alumni and students showcased their merchandise, delicious food, and handmade goods. Live entertainment and a grand appearance by the new Royal Court kept the energy high. The night concluded with a spirited step show, where sororities and fraternities showcased their best routines, bringing the heat and pride.
Homecoming Day began with a vibrant parade down Lombardy Street, drawing cheers and community pride. A surprise appearance by VUU alum and Virginia's first Black Governor, L. Douglas Wilder, was a delight to all. At Hovey Field, the Panthers dominated Lincoln University with a commanding 66-21 victory, boosting their season record to an impressive 6-1 with a first-quarter lead of 14-0 and 28 points scored in the third quarter alone. The Panthers are currently tied with Fayetteville State University atop the CIAA standings.
VUU's own Dex Rob, celebrity stylist, brand manager, and designer of VUU Panthers Yardrunner Air Force 1, also had a Meet and Greet in the President's tent, where attendees were invited to get their own pair of Yardrunners signed.
The night ended on a high note with tailgating and a free homecoming concert at Barco-Stevens Field, headlined by singer Jacquees, DJ Kid Capri, and Be'La Dona, Washington, D.C.'s all-women go-go band. The event was presented by Elocen Group hosted by VUU Trustee Necole Parker and capped off a memorable week.
"The Roar Awakened from student-events to game day to the sounds of the concert stage, and with the collaboration of Amazon and The Elocen Group — Homecoming 2025 was more than a weekend, it’s displayed our legacy in motion; our pride in action, it was epic,” said Deborah Alston, Chair of the Homecoming Committee.
This year’s homecoming proved once again that Virginia Union University is more than a campus — it’s a cultural force and a true trailblazer in higher education.