Hundreds of people, snaked for miles along the Parkway and throughout JSU’s campus, meandered for the perfect spot Saturday to glimpse at floats and in-state and out-of-state bands participating in the university’s annual Homecoming parade.
Saturday’s 8 a.m. event was nearly marred when about an hour later the tires of a float rolled over the legs of a little girl, slightly injuring her. A group of people rushed to her aid after she tripped when trying to retrieve candy that was left in the street earlier by participants, who were reminded that tossing candy into crowds could endanger parade-goers. After being transported to an area hospital, the girl was admitted for observation, examined and listed in good condition. No surgery was required. The incident was being reviewed by campus public safety.
Before the mishap that delayed the parade about a half-hour, several spectators expressed delight with the entertainment and the numerous entrants that included clubs and organizations, decorative and vintage vehicles, dance groups, high school bands, royal courts of all ages, and, of course, JSU’s dynamic Sonic Boom.
Among spectators was alum Alex Douyon of Miami. He graduated in 2005 in fine arts. He said Homecoming is a great opportunity to return to Mississippi to reconnect with old friends.
“Universities like Jackson State bring a lot of people from different parts of the country to grow up and meet each other. Furthermore, Homecoming is a way of reinforcing relationships. It means a lot to me,” the elementary school art teacher said. “Jackson State has come a long way. It’s grown significantly from when it started. Even coming from Miami, Florida, I’ve never seen this type of growth anywhere. I’m proud of the development. Jackson State is special and unique in its own way.”
Shelia Sanders Dupree studied special education at JSU from 1975-79. She said it’s always great to come back to see how the campus has transformed. “Despite the current football record, Homecoming is a tradition. We always love coming back. I played basketball here; my husband played football. We’re here with our grandchildren, bringing them up the way we came up.”
Another onlooker was 27-year-old Jackson native Billy Smith who attended JSU in 2013. “Homecoming is a good way to bring the city together in a positive atmosphere.”
Carolyn Robinson, Class of 1966, stood along the parade route snapping photos of the bands and floats. She said she’s looking forward to being part of Homecoming’s Golden Class next year. “This year, the Class of 1965 donated $100,000 to JSU. The Class of 1966 is looking forward to taking the challenge.”
Robinson of Jackson said her class members will aim to eclipse the amount donated this year.
