Tyler Junior College will celebrate its 100th anniversary Homecoming Week from October 19-24, inviting alumni and community members to a series of events themed “Soaring Through the Decades.” The festivities, held across the Tyler campus and local venues, mark a century since the college's founding in 1926.
One of TJC's long-standing traditions, “the drumbeat,” will commence the week's celebration. For a full week, leading up to the Saturday football game, TJC students, faculty, and staff will volunteer to keep a drum beating around the clock, a rhythmic event intended to bring good luck. This year's drumbeat and other rituals carry added significance as the college observes its centennial.
The "Soaring Through the Decades" theme is inspired by TJC's mascot, Harry the Hawk, reflecting a century of institutional achievement and highlighting ten decades of milestones that have shaped the college. Miranda Sewell, TJC Alumni Director, stated that alumni and community members are invited to “return to campus, reconnect with fellow Apaches, and help us celebrate the memories of the past 100 years.” She emphasized that "This year’s Homecoming carries great significance as we celebrate our Centennial."
The week of celebration includes several campus events. The Homecoming Kickoff will begin the festivities, followed by spirit wall painting, the Campus Capers talent show, and a dance. These events, alongside the continuous drumbeat ceremony, aim to foster community spirit throughout the week.
Thursday, October 22, will feature a concentrated schedule of public events. Alumni, students, and community members are encouraged to participate in the homecoming parade, a pep rally, and a block party. Immediately following these gatherings, a fireworks show will illuminate the Tyler sky.
A new tradition will debut on Friday, October 23, with TJC hosting its inaugural Ringing Ceremony. This event offers students and alumni the opportunity to receive their class rings and formally celebrate their connection to the college. Interested participants can find more information about the ceremony by visiting TJC.edu/Alumni. The website also provides details regarding special Centennial Alumni Association membership opportunities.
The homecoming week culminates on Saturday, October 24. Alumni are invited to a tailgate gathering preceding the TJC Apaches football game. The Apaches will play against New Mexico Military Institute at 1 p.m. at Christus Trinity Mother Frances Rose Stadium in Tyler.
Tyler Junior College, a comprehensive public community college situated in East Texas, was established in 1926. It currently offers a broad spectrum of educational programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates, and workforce or vocational training. The college provides more than 135 programs of study spanning areas such as arts, sciences, health professions, business, technology, and trades, catering to both traditional students and adult learners. TJC serves nearly 20,000 students annually across its credit and non-credit programs, with over 16,000 enrolled in credit programs and approximately 4,000 in continuing studies.
The college operates from its 145-acre central campus and additional sites, known for rigorous academics, 70 national athletic championships, fine and performing arts programs, modern residential facilities, and a variety of organizations and clubs designed to promote student engagement and diversity. TJC aims to deliver an educational experience that prepares students for success in their chosen careers and within their communities.
For a complete schedule of events, parade information, and all Homecoming updates, community members are directed to visit TJC.edu/Homecoming.
