From October 3-5, Southern Connecticut State University welcomed more than 4,200 students, alumni, families, faculty, and staff back to campus for a Homecoming & Family Weekend that blended tradition, recognition, and celebration.
The three-day celebration showcased the best of Southern pride — culminating in two marquee moments: the Alumni Association’s 100th Anniversary and Awards Celebration and the dedication of the Jess Dow Field press box in honor of alumnus and national sports analyst Rob Parker, ’86.
The weekend kicked off Friday night with the Alumni Awards and 100th Anniversary Celebration, held in honor of a century of connection and achievement. The event recognized outstanding members of the Southern community, including:
- Mike Arias, ’81 – James Barber Distinguished Alumni Award
- Ruth Eren, ’71, MS ’84 – Charlene Hill Riccardi Service Award
- The Per and Astrid Heidenreich Family Foundation – Dorothy Martino Alumni Appreciation Award
- Paul McKee ’21 – Young Alumni Professional Award
In her remarks, Interim President Sandra Bulmer reflected on the Alumni Association’s roots, dating back to 1925, and Southern’s evolution through historic challenges like the Great Depression and World War II to its current status as a thriving research-level university with a vibrant, dedicated alumni community.
“Southern continues to thrive because of people like all of you,” Bulmer said. “Tonight, in gratitude, we stand on the shoulders of 100 years of Southern alumni.”
On Saturday, the university honored Rob Parker with the official dedication of the Jess Dow Field press box in his name. Held during halftime at the Homecoming football game, the ceremony celebrated Parker’s accomplished career and enduring generosity — a proud moment for both Southern’s athletic and alumni communities.
“This is a testament of what can happen when you follow your dreams,” said Parker. “It tells all students at Southern and all the kids that live in New Haven that you can be a young Black man from the inner city, come from a divorced home without wealth, and still achieve.”
To relive the festivities, click here to explore photo galleries from Homecoming and Family Weekend.
