Tyler Junior College will celebrate its 100th anniversary Homecoming from October 19-24, featuring a week of traditions and new events under the theme "Soaring Through the Decades." The festivities, spanning the college's central campus and surrounding areas of Tyler, commemorate a century of the institution's history since its founding in 1926.
A central tradition, known as "the drumbeat," will begin on Monday, October 19, and continue around the clock until the start of Saturday's football game. TJC students, faculty, and staff will volunteer to keep a drum beating constantly throughout the week to bring good luck for the game. This rhythmic event is one of several rituals gaining enhanced meaning during the college's centennial year.
TJC Alumni Director Miranda Sewell stated the college "invite[s] alumni and community members from every decade to return to campus," encouraging them to reconnect with fellow Apaches and celebrate 100 years of memories. Sewell emphasized the great significance of this year's Homecoming, marking the Centennial.
The "Soaring Through the Decades" theme, inspired by TJC's mascot Harry the Hawk, reflects the college's century of achievement and highlights 10 decades of milestones that have shaped its programs and community impact.
Throughout the week, the Homecoming schedule includes a Kickoff event, spirit wall painting, the Campus Capers talent show, and a dance.
Thursday, October 22, will feature a series of public events. Alumni, students, and community members are invited to the Homecoming parade, followed by a pep rally and a block party. A fireworks show will immediately conclude Thursday's activities.
A new tradition, the inaugural Ringing Ceremony, will debut on Friday, October 23. This ceremony provides an opportunity for students and alumni to receive their class rings and celebrate their connections to the college. Interested participants can find more information about the ceremony and special Centennial Alumni Association membership opportunities by visiting the college's alumni website.
Homecoming week will culminate on Saturday, October 24. Alumni are invited to a tailgate gathering before the TJC Apaches football game. The Apaches will play New Mexico Military Institute at 1 p.m. at Christus Trinity Mother Frances Rose Stadium.
Tyler Junior College, a comprehensive public community college, was founded in 1926. It serves East Texas by offering a broad range of educational programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates, and vocational training. The college provides more than 135 programs of study across fields such as arts, sciences, health professions, business, technology, and trades, supporting both traditional and adult learners.
Annually, TJC serves almost 20,000 students, with over 16,000 enrolled in credit programs and nearly 4,000 in continuing studies. The college's 145-acre central campus, along with multiple other sites, features academic programs, 70 national athletic championships, fine and performing arts programs, residential facilities, and various student organizations.
A complete schedule of events, parade information, and Homecoming updates are available on the college's Homecoming website.
