Alumni return to campus during Homecoming

Each year, many alumni return to campus during Homecoming to celebrate tradition and experience a blast from the past. 2025 is no different. 

Sheryl Ponder, a Hoover, Alabama native, graduated in 1990 and majored in elementary education. Ponder is revisiting campus for a new reason this year.  

“My daughter, Katie, is currently a freshman at Troy,” Ponder said. “She will be part of the parade with her sorority this year, so that’s the reason I’m coming back. 

“It is great to see so many of the student organizations still involved in the parade. It’s such a great tradition.” 

Ponder said the friendships she formed at Troy are the first thing she thinks of when she steps on campus. 

“The lifelong friendships that I made during my four years at Troy are what immediately comes to mind,” Ponder said. “I love walking through both quads. 

“I lived in Pace Hall for three years, which is now the international dorm, I have so many memories made on that quad including bid days.” 

Carson McCrary, a 1991 finance graduate from Cartersville, Georgia, said he comes back each year to see his brother, who lives in Troy, Alabama, and old friends. Listening to the band and reflecting on his time in greek life are two homecoming staples for McCrary. 

“Living in the Sigma Alpha Epsilon house and meeting with everyone at the quad between classes are some of my favorite memories,” McCrary said. “The moment that means the most to me is when the Sound of the South Alumni Band plays at halftime.” 

David Hudson is from Marietta, Georgia, and he graduated in 1991 with a marketing degree. 

Hudson says he returns to campus each year to see familiar faces. 

 “I enjoy visiting with people I haven’t seen in a few years,” Hudson said. “Coming back just brings me back to when I was in school here. 

“It reminds me of a time in my life when I had few worries or responsibilities.” 

All three alumni said staying connected to Troy matters. 

“It is a great time to be able to reconnect with friends and experience Troy traditions again,” Ponder said. “It is also a time to be reflective and grateful.” 

“I think it matters because you should be proud of your school,” Hudson said. 

McCrary followed suit with similar thoughts. 

“It allows us to stay in touch with old friends and relive some great memories,” McCrary said.  

To stay up to date with homecoming events, readers are encouraged to follow @troyuhomecoming on Instagram.